Application Deadline: February 9th, 2025
Applications are now open for the Retail Readiness Entrepreneurship Training Program. The Retail Readiness Entrepreneurship Training Program is a competitive 16-week leadership and venture development program designed to support 25 underserved retail entrepreneurs who transform agricultural inputs into higher-value products or work directly in agriculture. Founders receive essential training, a curated list of retail readiness certifications and the financial stipend to pursue those certifications, mentorship, and access to a robust network and community. The program also offers long-term, sustainable alumni support to help entrepreneurs become retail-ready, scale their ventures, create jobs, and positively impact their communities.
Eligibility Requirements
Who You Are:
You are an impact-driven entrepreneur, working directly in farming or creating value-added products based on agricultural inputs. Some examples of value-added products in agriculture include: ready-to-eat products, organic and specialty products, artisanal and craft products, natural fibers and textiles, cosmetics and personal care products, biofuels, bioproducts and more. This program supports historically underserved entrepreneurs who are making lasting impact in their communities.
Venture Stage:
You are an impact-driven entrepreneur with proven products, traction, and revenue, but not yet ready to scale. This program targets those in the ‘missing middle’ stage, between prototyping and scaling, who need support to achieve retail readiness. Ideal candidates have demonstrated impact in their communities and are in the Problem-Solution Fit or Product-Market Fit stages, with engaged customers and measurable impact and revenue.
Commitment:
You are able to commit to the 16-week program including a 2-week virtual immersive. We prioritize individuals who are fully committed to actively participating in the entire program. At the heart of the program is a strong sense of community, and its success hinges on the active engagement and enthusiasm of all participants, who are eager to both learn and share.
Where You Create Impact:
The training program is open to U.S.-based entrepreneurs from cities with the highest documented levels of wealth inequality, as measured by the GINI Index. The geographic scope for the program includes places like Chicago, Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles, among many others.
What You Are Looking For:
You seek expert-guided training, a community of entrepreneurs for feedback, and a broad mentorship network to enhance your leadership and venture impact.
Demographics:
Adults 18 or Older.
Dates and Details
Retail Readiness Certification Stipend: Each Founder will have the opportunity to receive up to $1,000 to support their pursuit of external retail readiness certifications. This stipend helps cover certification fees and related expenses, supporting Founders in advancing their retail skills and career opportunities.
Dates: March 10th to June 30th, 2025 (16 weeks of programming).
Format: Weekly virtual workshops with localized gatherings and events when possible (8-10 hours per week time commitment). Sessions are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Mountain Time Zone (GMT-6).
Immersive & Orientation: 2-week virtual Immersive starting March 10th, 2025 (20–25 hours per week time commitment).
Basecamp: Basecamp refers to a 1-3 day Impact Workshop led by each Founder in their community. Its purpose is to gather a base of participants, allowing Founders to showcase their ventures, receive feedback, and expand their network. Additionally, Basecamps offer participants a hands-on experience in exploring social impact through entrepreneurship. Read more about Basecamps below.
Application Process
1. Applications Submitted: Complete the online application. This application should take approximately 45 minutes to fill out. The priority deadline for application submissions is February 9th, 2025. Applications will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis thereafter until the spots are filled.
2. First Round Review: Our Admissions Committee diligently reviews all applications, seeking entrepreneurs who demonstrate strong leadership qualities and ventures that are both innovative and scalable. Applications received after the deadline will be assessed on a rolling basis as needed.
3. Interview: Qualified applicants will receive invitations for a 20-minute one-on-one Zoom interview. This interview allows us to delve deeper into your motivations for pursuing the program and to gain a better understanding of your venture.
4. Admissions Committee Review: The most promising applicant profiles will be shared with our external Admissions Committee for their final review and selection.
5. Acceptances Announced: Notifications of acceptance will be sent out no later than February 21st, 2025.
6. Confirm & Enroll: The final step to complete your enrollment is to confirm your commitment to the program. Upon confirmation, you will receive an invitation to participate in a “Meet the Cohort Webinar” event leading up to the program’s commencement. The program begins on March 10th, 2025.
More Info: Retail Readiness Entrepreneurship Training Program.
