Enterprise Academy

Sauk Centre & St. Cloud Entrepreneurs: Apply Now!

The Initiative Foundation is accepting applications for fall Enterprise Academy cohorts in Sauk Centre and St. Cloud. 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. Read more below for details.

 

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

The Foundation partners with the Central Region and North Central Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) to connect entrepreneurs with workshops, consulting, trainings and one-on-one advising delivered by professional business consultants across the region. Find your regional SBDC.

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.

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!

Ismail Mohamed

Ismail Mohamed

Enterprise Academy Program Officer
Mary Kaye Peterson

Mary Kaye Peterson

Entrepreneurship Program Specialist (320) 631-2064

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