Start Up for Success

Starting a business lets people take on risks with the goal of making a profit or solving a community challenge. Successful new business ventures can improve standards of living, create wealth and jobs and contribute to a growing economy. 

Simply put: Entrepreneurs spark economic growth. That growth should not be limited to people or communities that have the wherewithal to cover start-up costs. Start Up for Success directs that growth at the people and communities who need it most, helping move the needle on all of our Steps to Success.

Start Up for Success’s training empowers participants to start and grow a business. This is done through a combination of workshops and one-on-one consulting to support their journey into the world of business ownership. Our training helps participants develop or obtain important business items, including:

• Business name
• Business license
• Working strategy plan that incorporates marketing
• Pricing model
• Opportunity to apply for startup funds
• Community of entrepreneurs with which to continue the journey

Start Up for Success training is presented in collaboration with Honor Loan.

The past two years have been a particularly challenging time to operate a small business. Still, as many in-person jobs disappeared in the wake of COVID-19, thousands of people in our area were left searching for new and alternative income sources. Many of these neighbors want to start their own businesses but are unable to do so because they lack the training or start-up money.  

Creating opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs in a post-pandemic world is a critical step on the road to recovery. Start Up for Success will help people and communities rebuild.

Each year, we have a new cohort of enthusiastic participants, eager to gain tools and knowledge for launching or growing their businesses. Their aspirations range from business consulting and holistic medicine to food services and clothing and apparel. Learn more about these local entrepreneurs.