Collab, a New Haven entrepreneurship training and support initiative, is now accepting applications for its Fall Accelerator program — the program’s fifth “cohort” since it began two years ago.
The Collab Accelerator is a 12-week program for anyone with an idea for a new business or not-for-profit enterprise — and the resourcefulness and drive to see it through.
The nascent organizations can be in any industry or area of endeavor. Their common thread or purpose would be a desire to animate positive change in their communities.
“New Haven is a city of entrepreneurs with individuals from every single neighborhood with ideas that can be meaningful, impactful and sustainable,” said Collab co-founder and -director Caroline Smith. “We are inspired by the large number of applicants we receive every round and by the reviewers that support us in the challenging task of selecting the seven accepted into the Accelerator. We are so excited to meet Collab Cohort 5!”
Those accepted into the program attend workshops on leadership and entrepreneurship, including customer discovery, value propositions, business planning, legal, accounting, marketing and other elements of creating and operating a successful enterprise. The weekly workshops meet 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays through November.
In addition, participants receive $1,000 in funding for startup costs, weekly one-on-one mentoring sessions, technical assistance and introduction to potential funders and other sources of capital.
At the conclusion of the 12-week program, participants take part in Pitch Day (December 4), affording an opportunity to pitch their dreams to potential investors and community members.
The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. (sharp!) on Sept. 1. Interested participants may attend an information session scheduled for 6 p.m. Aug. 22. E-mail team@collabnewhaven.org for additional information or to register.
Collab is supported by the Elm City Innovation Collaborative (ECIC), CT Next and the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, with partnership support from the New Haven Free Public Library.
