Hello Entrepreneurs & Ecosystem Partners,
I am reaching out with information about an upcoming, funded class for DC entrepreneurs. Those completing the class will receive $500 pitch stipends, and there are 25 spots for folks to sign up for the 6 week class starting Thursdays in August. We will open the application at 6 pm tonight (8/1/22) after a 5:30 pm information session. Sign up for the information session or to receive the recording and application here.
Overview
The Department of Small & Local Business Development (DSLBD) is excited to offer an opportunity for 25 DC residents to participate in a 12- hour Build a Dream course starting in August 2022. Participants will learn more about how to think about entrepreneurship, and those who complete the course and pitch at the end are eligible for a $500 stipend award from the DC Public Library Foundation.
How to apply
To ensure that we have a full class, DSLBD is operating a brief application process to collect interest. The application link will be distributed to all registrants for the information session, or folks can reach out to Inno.ED@dc.gov to request the application link once it opens.
Priority for a spot in the class will be offered on a first-come, first serve basis to applicants who complete the full application meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrate proof of DC residency (copy of an active DC Government issued ID or similar)
- Provide a short statement about the Dream for their DC business
- Confirm their travel plan to be able to commute to Francis Gregory library, 3660 Alabama Ave., SE, Washington, D.C. 20020, for the start time of 5:30 pm
- Commit to being able to attend all 6 classes (participants must complete all six classes to be eligible for the pitch stiped from the DC Public Library Foundation)
Interested applicants may preview a copy of the application here. DSLBD will only accept application materials in the Alchemer application system. The survey link will be shared with all registrants for this session whether they attend the information session or not.
Class schedule for accepted applicants
- August 11 Thursday 5:30-7:30
- August 18 Thursday 5:30-7:30
- August 25 Thursday 5:30-7:30
- September 1 Thursday 5:30-7:30
- September 8 Thursday 5:30-7:30
- September 15 Thursday 5:30-7:30
About this class
DSLBD has trained over 3,000 residents in the Build a Dream curriculum, but this is one of the first times participants will be offered a stipend for their participation. We are grateful for the generous support and partnership of DC Public Libraries and the DC Library to host and fund this opportunity for DC entrepreneurs.
The curriculum is available to view online here. The course will be instructed by Kate Mereand from DSLBD's Innovation & Equitable Development Division.
The format of the class is discussion-based, working through the lean canvas methodology for business model development, customer discovery, basic business financials, and pitching in all its forms. All participants will provide a short 2-minute pitch about their business or their business idea at the final session.
If you have questions, please reach out to us at Inno.ED@dc.gov.
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Kate Mereand (she/her) (how to pronounce my name)
Program Manager
Innovation & Equitable Development
Department of Small & Local Business Development
441 4th Street, NW, Washington DC, 20001
Main: 202-727-3900
Web: www.dslbd.dc.gov
Connect with Inno.ED programs: https://linktr.ee/Inno.ED
And shop local! Your community needs you.
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