Enterprise Academy
What You Will Learn
Enterprise Academy is the single-largest early-stage entrepreneur training program in Central Minnesota. At the heart of the program is a 12-week business course that provides training and individualized advising to help underserved entrepreneurs start and grow small businesses. The expertly taught classes lead students through basic business principles and helps them start—and ultimately finish—a business plan. Graduates receive ongoing technical support and can also apply for market-rate microloans through the Initiative Foundation.
Entrepreneur Training
Aspiring entrepreneurs learn from business experts as they create their own individual business plan. Classes are once per week for 12 weeks and feature instruction in basic business principles and assistance in creating a business plan.
Business Services & Support
Expert consultants provide one-on-one business support services in areas such as recordkeeping, accounting, marketing and branding, web development, social media marketing and legal aspects of business. These services are available to qualifying existing businesses for a reduced fee.
Small Business Lending
The Enterprise Academy is supported by a lending program and provides access to microloans for businesses owners who may not be able to access traditional sources of capital, including culturally tailored lending. Direct loans are available for up to $50,000 for successful graduates of our Enterprise Academy program or to our business services and technical assistance clients who create a realistic business plan. Enterprise Academy borrowers may also gain access to larger loans through our traditional gap lending program, which requires a lead lender such as a bank or credit union.
Learn How You Can Apply
Interested in applying for a future Enterprise Academy cohort? Complete our Enterprise Academy Interest Form and we’ll contact you when a new cohort is being planned. Cohorts generally are offered starting in March and September in St. Cloud, Long Prairie and Onamia (fall cohort only).
Enriching Outcomes Include …
- Providing unique goods and services to the local economy
- Revitalization of communities and vacant properties
- Developing and lifting up community role models
- Strengthening local economies
- Broadening participation in the American dream.
Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact Mary Kaye Peterson to make arrangements.
Learn More About Other Business Services
Have a question or need help completing an application? Contact a member of our team. We’ll get you the support you need!
Eight Graduate From Mille Lacs Enterprise Academy Class
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Fourteen Graduate From St. Cloud Enterprise Academy Class
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Seven Graduate From Long Prairie Enterprise Academy Class
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IQ Magazine Stories
Lifting Up Entrepreneurs
Six entrepreneurs recognized for building businesses while meeting local community needs. Read More
Elevating Entrepreneurs
Meet the winners of the Initiative Foundation’s inaugural Emerging Entrepreneur Showcase & Awards event. Read More
Partners on a Journey
Enterprise Academy graduates use connections, knowledge to advance Central Minnesota businesses. Read More