Mountain BizWorks is now accepting applications for its first Latino Catalyst Cohort, which will be facilitated entirely in Spanish. The business development program, based on the successful Multicultural Catalyst Cohort for entrepreneurs of color, focuses on developing practical business and leadership skills. Applications will be accepted through March 20, with the first session scheduled for April 26.
About the program expansion, Jeremiah Robinson, Catalyst Entrepreneur in Residence, shared: “Language shouldn’t be a barrier to accessing financial resources and opportunities. We are proud to offer our popular Catalyst Cohort in Spanish, extending the reach of this valuable program to our Spanish-speaking clients and communities so that they can fully benefit from everything we have to offer. Providing equal access to financial resources and opportunities is a top priority for us, and we are committed to serving all members of our community.”
Members of the Latino Catalyst Cohort will join a group of passionate entrepreneurs in a peer-support setting, facilitated by a growth mentor. The 10-month program will help members navigate the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship. In addition to the cohort sessions, participants will be able to take advantage of one-on-one training sessions with program facilitators and Mountain BizWorks trainers. Each participant will also receive $2,000 dollars to request technical assistance in the different areas that their business needs to achieve their growth goals.
“This is an incredible opportunity to meet your business growth goals with expert and peer encouragement,” shared Jenny Forero, Latino Entrepreneurship Program Manager. “In the cohort, you will learn the skills needed to thrive as a business. I encourage business owners to commit to themselves this year. We can reach higher together!”
The program is designed for existing Latino small business owners with potential for growth. In this first cohort, only ten Latino business owners (based in WNC) will be selected through a competitive application process. Thanks to the generous support of Buncombe County and other organizations, there is no cost to those selected to participate.
Key Program Dates:
Application period: January 17 – March 20, 2023
Candidate interviews: March 21 – 24, 2023
Participants selected and informed: March 30, 2023
Program Kickoff Celebration: April 13, 2023
First session: April 26, 2023
Last session: January 24, 2024
For more information or to apply to be a part of the inaugural Latino Catalyst Cohort, visit mountainbizworks.org/grupo-catalizador. Email jenny@mountainbizworks.org or jeremiah@mountainbizworks.org with any questions regarding the application.
