A team of parishioners and community members partnering with local entrepreneurs to help them grow and improve their small businesses
Designed especially for people who are in the early- to mid-stages of developing their business, but who may not have prior business experience and are looking for help with next steps
How it works
Entrepreneurs are paired with a connector, who works one-on-one with them throughout a year-long program. During monthly meetings, participants are brought into a network of other entrepreneurs and advisors who provide training, resources, and advice in a range of areas. These include topics such as business planning, bookkeeping, financial, marketing, legal, and professional development. The program also offers very low-interest business loans.
WHO CAN participate
The program is open to anyone 18 years or older who lives or works in the West Park neighborhood of Cleveland. This includes the neighborhoods of Jefferson, Kamm's Corners, Bellaire-Puritas, and Hopkins. You need not have any religious affiliation to participate.
PROJECT TYPES
Entrepreneurs who participate in the Incubator have a wide-range of businesses. In the past, these have included a baking business, a cleaning service, plant soil supplements, beekeeping, apparel customization, and developing and selling skin care products. Your business could be in manufacturing, service, or retail.
TIME COMMITMENT
New cohorts are formed every 6 months and run for a year. Cohort meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 6:30-8:00pm.
Program Benefits
- a dedicated team of connectors and mentors
- a supportive group of peers to grow their network and share learning and support
- opportunities to share information and talk through challenges
- resources they may not have known existed
- customized learning opportunities and responsive training
- help with marketing materials such as postcards and website evaluation
- opportunities to market their business and sell their product through incubator network
- low interest loans, up to $2,000
Entrepreneur Testimonials
What participants are saying about the incubator
The Incubator program and TEAM ROCKS! Thanks for assisting me in living one of my dreams!!
- Annette, launched a successful line of skin care products
Overall it was a wonderful experience, and the support from the team is amazing. I am honored to be a part of this.
- Teresa, started a boutique bakery business
Our Partners
The Entrepreneur Incubator is sponsored by Blessed Trinity Parish in Cleveland, in partnership with Bellaire Puritas Development Corporation, Neighborhood Connections, and the Sisters of Charity Foundation.
Contact Us
For more information, contact Sarah Kennedy at Neighborhood Connections
Phone
216-577-5511
Email
To donate or volunteer, contact Fr. Doug Koesel
PHONE
216-671-5890