10 Graduate from St. Cloud Enterprise Academy

The Initiative Foundation is celebrating the graduation of 10 St. Cloud-area entrepreneurs who recently completed the Enterprise Academy. Through the program, participants received business training, mentorship and coaching designed to help them launch, grow and strengthen their businesses.

The spring 2026 graduates represents a diverse group of aspiring and established entrepreneurs. Their business ideas range from food service and retail to environmental consulting, transportation, personal care and community-based services.

“Enterprise Academy equips entrepreneurs with the tools, confidence and support they need to move their businesses forward,” said Zach Tabatt, vice president for economic opportunity at the Initiative Foundation. “These graduates have invested in themselves and their ideas, and we’re excited to see the impact they will have on their communities.”

Here is a snapshot of several entrepreneurs who completed the program:

Jalen Barnes-Bacon of St. Cloud is developing a retail shoe store focused on stylish, high-quality footwear at affordable prices. He hopes to create a community-centered business that educates customers about shoe care and sneaker culture.

Calie Schweninger of Brainerd is building Justice Link, an organization that will support individuals affected by trafficking, domestic violence and exploitation. Inspired by her own experiences, she hopes to create healing, home-like spaces that provide safety and support.

Keosha Seamon, owner of Cookah Mamas House in St. Cloud, participated in the program to strengthen her business skills and prepare for future growth. Her food business is known for comfort food offerings and unique dining experiences through pop-up events.

June Volkers of Foley is building Amik Environmental Solutions, an environmental and tribal relations consulting business. An enrolled member of the Red Lake Band of Ojibwe, she hopes to support communities through environmental consulting and relationship-building.

The cohort was led by trainer Ashley Easley, founder and CEO of Ashley’s Essential Community Services and Brenda’s Helping Hands. A graduate of Enterprise Academy herself, Easley now helps aspiring entrepreneurs develop the practical skills, confidence and knowledge needed to start and grow successful businesses.

To learn more about Enterprise Academy, visit ifound.org/economy/enterprise-academy. The application for the fall cohort, beginning in September, is now open.

Meet the rest of the graduates: ifound.org/business-services/enterprise-academy/meet-graduates.