“Transform plans into results.” How Youngstown business owners can apply to 2025 cohort
After a successful first year, the Bridgeway Capital’s Business Growth Accelerator program is back to connect with more Mahoning Valley entrepreneurs and business owners.
The Business Growth Accelerator program brings a select number of business owners in the Youngstown and Warren area together for education, coaching and business-building services.
The program is offered at no cost to participants and will accept applications through March 31.
Bridgeway senior programs manager Maria Brown will lead 20 participants through the program and help them make an actionable business plan.
“I’m excited to work with business owners on the pathway to upward mobility,” Brown said. “This newly restructured program allows for more participation from emerging entrepreneurs, preparing them for future development opportunities.”
Emerging and established business owners welcome
This year, there are two cohorts: the established businesses and emerging businesses.
The established business cohort is for entrepreneurs who have been in business for more than four years, have $20,000 to $30,000 in annual revenue and work full-time for their business.
The emerging business cohort is applicable for entrepreneurs who haven’t met those criteria yet.
During the two-month program, the cohorts will participate in weekly sessions that cover key business topics, such as marketing, legal, accounting and business planning, with local experts in entrepreneurship.
“We have also retooled the journey for the established business track; the new sequencing will better assist participants in understanding the elements of a strong business model and with developing plans to guide their decision making,” Brown said.
The established business cohort members will receive one-on-one business coaching.
Lisa Resnick, owner of Dandelion – Inc., was part of the first Business Growth Accelerator cohort in 2024.
“This experience has highlighted the wealth of creativity and innovation within our local network, and it has been inspiring to see so many individuals commit to making a positive impact,” Resnick said. “Participating in this program has increased our focus on execution and consistency, helping us transform plans into tangible results.”
Applying for the 2025 Business Growth Accelerator program
If you’re interested in applying, there will be an informational meeting held virtually on March 21 for potential applicants to learn more.
To apply or sign up for the virtual meeting, go to the 2025 Business Growth Accelerator Youngstown/Warren page in Entrepreneurship Hub at BridgewayCapital.org.
Sessions will be hosted at The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County and the Raymond John Wean Foundation Offices in Warren.
“They’ll graduate with the entrepreneurial confidence and capital readiness needed to thrive,” Brown said.
