Connecticut entrepreneurs looking to boost their businesses can now apply for some help through Collab New Haven’s Spring 2023 Accelerator program.
Collab supports New Haven and Connecticut early-stage entrepreneurs. Those selected for the program will receive one-on-one coaching, education and a network of support.
The Collab Spring Accelerator is Collab’s flagship program to support local entrepreneurs. Now in its fifth year, the accelerator has nearly 100 graduates. Of those graduates, 84 percent are people of color-led ventures and 76 percent are women-led ventures.
A cohort of 7-12 entrepreneurs will be selected to participate in the 12-week program beginning in April. During the program, the entrepreneurs will be connected to a mentor in Collab’s Mentor Network and pro bono service providers in legal and accounting fields. At the conclusion of the program, entrepreneurs will showcase their ideas to community and industry leaders at a culminating graduation ceremony called the Collab Roundtable.
Executive Director Dawn Leaks said the program is a place where early-stage entrepreneurs can turn their ideas into viable businesses with the support of Collab’s staff, network and educational programming.
“Collab’s entrepreneurs are innovating new concepts and creating solutions to community challenges,” Leaks said. “Anyone who sees themselves doing the same should apply.”
Past graduates of the Collab Accelerator have gone on to create successful ventures, including receiving investment funds, creating local jobs and providing goods and services to the community, according to Leaks.
Some of the notable graduates include Havenly, Sanctuary Kitchen Catering, Peels and Wheels Composting and Oh Shito!
Applications are available online at www.collabnewhaven.org/accelerator. The deadline to submit applications is March 19.
