tart.coop is a nonprofit dedicated to helping new entrepreneurs build and scale early-stage cooperative businesses that “combat - rather than perpetuate - economic and race-based inequality.” A cooperatively-owned business model is owned and controlled by the people who directly produce or use the products or services of the business. This shared ownership structure allows the people who directly support a business to share in the profits. Because of this, co-ops have the potential to unlock ownership and wealth generation for traditionally excluded individuals and communities. Novo believes in empowering entrepreneurs to be the best they can be, and Start.coop’s accelerator program is a great opportunity for your co-op to grow and expand.
“Unlocking the power of cooperatives to reimagine capitalism and build a more equitable and resilient economy”
Great news: Start.coop invites your startup to apply for their 2022 business incubator cohort! You’ll have access to 1:1 coaching, workshops, mentorship, discounts, recommendations for vetted service providers, and a community of peer entrepreneurs and mentors, all tailored to the needs of cooperative businesses. This accelerator can help with business development for early-stage companies anywhere from the idea stage to the growth of current operations and economic development. Oh, and did we mention that you’ll get a $10k investment with the potential for add-on investments post-graduation?
To access all of these perks, you can apply for the business accelerator today. Applications are now open through November 7, 2021 for their 16-week virtual program. The application process mimics a business pitch with selection criteria based on the business’s social impact, financial viability, and scalability, as well as the business owners’ industry experience, ability to execute, and overall passion. If you’re selected from the initial application, there is an interview stage, with final offers made by December 17, 2021. To apply, your business must be based in the United States, and it must share majority ownership with its community (workers, users, etc.) or plan to in the next 12 months. You must also show the potential to scale. Apply now for this transformative business opportunity.
To learn more and apply, visit this page.