January 3, 2024
Dallas, TX – Running a business can be a challenging journey, and the University of Texas at Dallas is stepping up to support the local entrepreneurial community through its innovative, six-week Community Business Booster program. This transformative initiative, funded in part through a Grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration, aims to provide invaluable assistance, resources, and expert guidance to help businesses thrive—all at no cost to participants.
Founders of small businesses from underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to elevate their businesses. The deadline for the Retailer Track application is January 6, 2024, for a January 22nd start date.
“The Community Business Booster Program is more than just a support system; it’s a catalyst for success. We believe that by providing tailored guidance, resources, and these exclusive benefits, we can empower businesses of all sizes and types to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth,” said Carol Marcus-Rehtmeyer, executive director of the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Texas at Dallas.
The UT Dallas team plans to serve 150 businesses over two years.
Program Application Details:
Timeline: Each track will participate in a six-week program on the following dates.
- Retailers – January 22 – February 26
- Social Service and Nonprofits – April 8 – May 13
- Service Providers – July 8 – August 12
- Startups and New Projects – October 7 – November 11
Who can apply: Small business owners serving retail, social service, nonprofits, service providers, and startups and new projects. While the program’s goal is to increase access for underrepresented groups, all eligible entrepreneurs regardless of background are encouraged to apply.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Highlights:
- Learn from industry experts through a carefully curated curriculum that addresses key aspects of business development, strategy, and sustainability.
- Establish connections with industry professionals who will serve as mentors, providing valuable insights, guidance, and networking opportunities.
- The University of Texas at Dallas will cover select expenses associated with the program, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder participation.
- Participants will receive a complimentary six-month membership at the state-of-the-art co-working space at the Richardson IQHQ, providing a conducive environment for collaboration and innovation.
- Each cohort will have opportunities to tap into additional university resources.
Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, University of Texas at Dallas
The Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is a nationally ranked center for student entrepreneurship and innovation at The University of Texas at Dallas and an interdisciplinary division of the Naveen Jindal School of Management. The institute provides opportunities for hundreds of students, faculty, and alumni to learn about entrepreneurship and innovation. Programs include workshops, networking events, pitch competitions, venture support, innovation programs, scholarships, community outreach, and more. All programs are open to students from any academic major or background. Learn more at innovation.utdallas.edu.
For more information, please contact: Sarah Crowe, sarah.crowe@utdallas.edu
