Program Overview
We take participants through an intensive program designed to help entrepreneurs through the struggles that arise in the first years of business ownership, ensuring longevity and success. This program also exists to strengthen the current economic landscape of under resourced communities through direct revenue growth, new job creation, and increasing public safety.
The Thrive Program will be offered 3 times a year to 25 entrepreneurs. The total program is offered in a 4 month period of time and is approximately 175 hours. All classes are taught on a weekend or weekday in the evening to accommodate individuals who still hold daytime employment or care for families during the day. Free childcare is available onsite to a limited number of applicants so please make sure to communicate the need in your application.
Program Breakdown
Self-Discovery and Entrepreneurial Mindset (45 hours)
In this phase, participants focus on personal growth and developing the right mindset for entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs can expect to receive mentorship, coaching, and assignments to encourage personal development , developing a growth-oriented mindset, and boost confidence to start a business. They will also develop connections with peers, instructors, and community members for increased support.
This phase is a prerequisite to the Skill Development and Community Engagement phase. In order to complete the Self-Discovery and Entrepreneurial Mindset phase one must complete:
- A minimum of 24 class hours
- A minimum of 21 hours of homework
Skill Development and Community Engagement (105 hours)
This phase involves providing participants with the technical skills and knowledge necessary to develop their business ideas. This includes workshops, seminars, and hands-on training in areas such as business planning, marketing, finance, and operations. Additionally, participants are introduced to valuable community resources such as mentorship networks, funding opportunities, and other support organizations.
This phase will start by validating your business idea and creating an MVP to start and test the market. Then, we will teach you the fundamentals of building your business, MEAT AND POTATOES!!!! Hard working entrepreneurs can expect to leave this phase of the program with an actionable business plan and projected financials to get their businesses up and running.
This phase is a prerequisite to the Business Showcase and Continued Support phase. In order to complete the Skill Development and Community Engagement phase one must complete:
- A minimum of 50 class hours
- A minimum of 35 hours of homework
- A minimum of 6 mentor sessions
- Completed Business Plan
- Completed Three Year Financial Projections
Business Showcase and Ongoing Support (25 hours)
The final phase revolves around refining participants’ business ideas and preparing them to pitch their new businesses to potential investors, friends and family, and community supporters. Participants receive guidance and support in crafting compelling pitches and presentations. Following the pitch event, participants continue to receive ongoing support tailored to their individual needs, which may include access to further resources, mentorship, networking opportunities, and assistance with scaling their businesses.
In order to receive a certificate of completion one must complete:
- A minimum of 16 class Hours
- Presentation of a business pitch
Deliverables Upon Completion:
- Business Plan
- Financial Projections
- Pitch Deck
- Leadership Development
- Organizational Structure and Systems
- Resources and Connections to Position Your Business For Future Success
- Readiness for Funding