Our Programs
Transformative programs designed to empower individuals to grow their skills, businesses, and futures.
Grow It: From Seed to Stalk
"Grow It" is a transformative program designed to guide participants—particularly African American and Hispanic ex-offenders and youth—through a structured journey of self-discovery, skill development, and business creation. The program emphasizes the cultivation of entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, bilingual communication, and creative expression, culminating in the establishment of participant-owned businesses.
Program Overview
Our 12-week curriculum takes participants through five phases of growth, each building upon the previous one to develop well-rounded entrepreneurs ready to launch their own businesses.
- Weekly workshops and hands-on activities
- One-on-one mentoring with experienced entrepreneurs
- Financial literacy and business planning training
- Creative expression and brand development
- Networking opportunities with community partners
- Business launch support and ongoing mentorship
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of the "Grow It" program, participants will have:
- Developed a comprehensive business plan and officially launched their own business.
- Gained proficiency in financial management, including budgeting, saving, and investing.
- Acquired skills in bilingual communication, enhancing their ability to collaborate across communities.
- Published written works or created visual content that tells their unique stories.
- Established a network of mentors and peers to support ongoing growth and development.
Program Phases
The Seed – Self-Discovery & Healing
Building a foundation of self-awareness and personal growth
This initial phase focuses on helping participants reflect on their experiences and begin the healing process through creative expression and self-discovery. It sets the stage for personal growth and prepares them for the entrepreneurial journey ahead. A key component is the use of journaling as a therapeutic tool.
Journaling for Transformation:
Daily journaling exercises encourage participants to reflect on their experiences, fostering self-awareness and serving as a foundation for personal growth.
Creative Writing Workshops:
Participants learn to articulate their stories through writing, transforming past traumas into powerful narratives that can be shared or published.
The Soil – Building a Strong Foundation
Developing essential life and financial skills
In this phase, participants acquire the fundamental skills necessary for personal and professional success, with an emphasis on financial literacy and effective communication.
Financial Literacy:
Workshops cover budgeting, saving, credit repair, and investment strategies, equipping participants with the skills to manage personal and business finances effectively.
Life Skills Development:
Sessions focus on communication, time management, and decision-making, essential for personal and professional success.
The Roots – Entrepreneurial Education
Learning the fundamentals of business
This phase introduces participants to the core concepts of entrepreneurship and business management, providing them with the knowledge to start planning their ventures.
Business Fundamentals:
Participants learn about business planning, marketing, operations, and legal structures, including how to establish an LLC and open a business bank account.
Mentorship:
Experienced entrepreneurs provide guidance, sharing insights and offering support as participants develop their business ideas.
The Sprout – Creative Expression & Branding
Developing a unique brand identity
In this phase, participants learn to tell their stories in compelling ways and create visual representations of their business concepts.
Storytelling & Branding:
Participants craft compelling brand stories, connecting their personal journeys to their business missions.
Visual Arts & Filmmaking:
Workshops teach participants how to create visual content that promotes their brand and message.
The Stalk – Business Launch & Growth
Bringing business ideas to life
The final phase focuses on the practical aspects of launching and growing a business, with ongoing support to ensure sustainability.
Product Development:
Participants create products or services that reflect their skills and experiences, focusing on offerings that are both meaningful and marketable.
Business Launch:
With support, participants officially launch their businesses, applying the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program.
Networking & Continued Support:
Ongoing mentorship and networking opportunities ensure sustained growth and adaptation in the business landscape.
12-Week Curriculum Breakdown
Week 1: Planting the Seed – Self-Discovery & Healing
Objectives:
- Initiate self-reflection and personal growth
- Introduce journaling as a therapeutic tool
Activities:
- Daily journaling exercises
- Group discussions on personal experiences and aspirations
Week 2: Preparing the Soil – Building a Strong Foundation
Objectives:
- Understand the importance of financial literacy
- Develop basic budgeting skills
Activities:
- Workshops on budgeting and saving
- Interactive games simulating financial decision-making
Week 3: Root Development – Entrepreneurial Mindset
Objectives:
- Explore the fundamentals of entrepreneurship
- Identify personal strengths and interests
Activities:
- Guest speakers sharing entrepreneurial journeys
- Brainstorming sessions for business ideas
Week 4: Sprouting – Business Planning
Objectives:
- Learn how to create a business plan
- Understand market research and target audiences
Activities:
- Workshops on business plan components
- Group projects developing mock business plans
Week 5: Nurturing Growth – Financial Management
Objectives:
- Delve deeper into financial literacy, focusing on credit
- Understand credit repair and building strategies
Activities:
- Interactive sessions on credit scores and reports
- Role-playing scenarios on financial decision-making
Week 6: Branching Out – Bilingual Communication
Objectives:
- Introduce basic Spanish language skills
- Foster cross-cultural communication
Activities:
- Language classes focusing on business terminology
- Cultural exchange workshops
Week 7: Strengthening the Stalk – Legal Aspects of Business
Objectives:
- Understand the legal requirements of starting a business
- Learn about LLCs, permits, and licenses
Activities:
- Seminars with legal experts
- Case studies on business compliance
Week 8: Blossoming – Marketing and Branding
Objectives:
- Develop marketing strategies
- Create a brand identity
Activities:
- Workshops on social media marketing
- Designing logos and promotional materials
Week 9: Pollination – Networking and Partnerships
Objectives:
- Learn the importance of networking
- Build relationships with local businesses and mentors
Activities:
- Networking events with community entrepreneurs
- Mentorship pairings
Week 10: Bearing Fruit – Launching the Business
Objectives:
- Finalize business plans
- Prepare for business launch
Activities:
- Pitch presentations to a panel of judges
- Feedback sessions for refinement
Week 11: Harvesting – Evaluating Success
Objectives:
- Assess business performance
- Identify areas for improvement
Activities:
- Review sessions of business metrics
- One-on-one coaching for growth strategies
Week 12: Seeding the Future – Legacy Building
Objectives:
- Plan for long-term business sustainability
- Explore opportunities for expansion and mentorship
Activities:
- Workshops on scaling a business
- Developing mentorship programs for future participants
Ready to Grow?
Applications for our next cohort are now open. Join us on this transformative journey to unlock your entrepreneurial potential and build a sustainable future.
"The Grow It program changed my life. I went from having an idea to launching a successful business in just 12 weeks."- Marcus Johnson, Program Graduate
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to participate in the program?
Our programs are designed primarily for justice-involved individuals and at-risk youth, with a focus on African American and Hispanic communities. However, we evaluate applications on a case-by-case basis and welcome anyone who could benefit from our services.
Is there a cost to participate?
Our programs are offered at no cost to participants thanks to our generous donors and community partners. We believe in removing financial barriers to entrepreneurship education.
How long is the program?
Our flagship 'Grow It' program runs for 12 weeks, with weekly workshops and additional one-on-one mentoring sessions.
What kind of businesses do participants typically start?
Participants start a diverse range of businesses based on their interests, skills, and market opportunities. These have included food services, creative arts, landscaping, construction, personal services, retail, and digital businesses.
Do I need to have a business idea already?
No, you don't need a business idea to start. The program includes ideation sessions and helps participants identify opportunities based on their skills and interests.
What support is provided after the program ends?
We offer ongoing mentorship, networking events, and access to resources for program graduates. Our goal is to provide continued support as businesses grow and evolve.