About the program
The Urban League of Springfield Inc. has partnered with Urban League of Eastern MA and Interise to develop a state-wide initiative to support small businesses to grow to scale. “NextStage Minority Business Entrepreneur Academy” and "NextStage Accelerator", powered by Interise, is dedicated to scaling minority owned businesses and businesses located in low to moderate income communities. Since 2004 the Interise award winning curriculum has over 9,000 graduates, over 500 in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts that employ over 150,000 nationally with an average revenue increase of $500k per business on average, and 97% of alumni businesses would recommend the program to a fellow business owner. This winning Interise curriculum is proven to scale businesses and increase revenue while building the business owners' capacity and confidence. In addition, it’s designed to provide a practical executive level small business education and ensure businesses have an opportunity to reach their full potential.
Basic eligibility requirements
- Businesses that are located in the greater Springfield, Worcester county and surrounding areas.
- Minority or female business owner maintaining at least 51% business ownership
- Annual revenue between $125,000 and $10,000,000
- A minimum of one employee besides the owner(s).
- Been in business for at least 2 years.
- Desiring to work “on” and not just “in” your business
- Personalized 3-year Strategic Growth Pla
By program end, participants will have developed a customized 3-year strategic growth plan and the confidence and skills to bring these plans to life. Take advantage of this opportunity for you to invest in the success of your business.
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