I'm helping 400 people start a business this year!
Why?
Because each year 400,000 well-qualified high school graduates will not enroll in college–and for those that do enroll, 1 out of 4 of those students will want to take a break from school… All for reasons varying from insufficient aid, to fatigue, to college simply not being for everyone.
And because this year, 300,000 Black women of all education, income levels and ages spanning five generations all exited the US workforce–due to layoffs, reduced program funding, the dismantling of diversity initiatives, and the automation of jobs…
"I want to be the kind of coach and accountability I wish I'd had for myself."
And because for some Boomers entering or nearing retirement, their dream of financial security isn’t always realized. Others are ready for reinvention, not retirement—they want to make their “encore” as an entrepreneur!
I can’t help them all, but I can help 400 people who face the typical realities and hurdles of starting a business—limited experience, limited resources, and limited connections. Whether that’s having their ideas, skills, or ability to execute underestimated, to being shut out of door-opening programs and opportunities, to lack of access to mentors, role models, or peers who can guide them through business challenges.
Welcome to my Quick Launch framework! My entrepreneurship cohorts take new businesses from ideation to launch in just eight weeks. And it’s a successful model that’s been piloted and vetted with reputable agencies like the Maryland Department of Labor’s Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC), and the DC Office of Small and Local Business Development’s ASPIRE program for returning citizens.
I've been where you are!
I’ve been self-employed for 16 years. I know about hurdles, limited resources, limited connections, and worse–getting “support” that was more predatory than helpful. I’ve modeled my entrepreneurship programs built on my own observed needs and action plans. I want to be the kind of coach and accountability I wish I’d had for myself.
So, let’s think big. If those 400 businesses each earned a conservative $100,000 in annual revenue, that’s $40 million in new economic activity poured back into their communities–the communities that need it most. Otherwise, a great idea might not take flight when a budding entrepreneur is turned away from other programs simply because they aren’t already generating revenue.
Are You Ready To Stand on Business?
Ready to be 1 of 400?
By the end of my Quick Launch method, you won’t have just developed a business or adopted a business mindset–you’ll have become an innovator, a credible subject matter expert in your unique domain, with an advisory council and an online presence that shows you stand ON and IN business!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply?
The Quick Launch method is designed to be inclusive of all ideas and identities, so all are welcome to apply. There are typically cohorts for adults, and separate cohorts for students. In some cases–with partnering institutions like colleges and universities–there may be a broader age range within the same cohort.
Email me or sign up for my mailing list to be notified of new cohorts and locations happening both in-person and virtually.
Do I have to have a business already? Or a business plan?
No. This is your incubator, and your accountability group. It all starts here. With guidance and coaching–and support from your cohort–you’ll start by identifying key markets and audiences so you have clarity on where to focus your time, energy, and service options as you develop your business idea. You’ll build a cohesive pitch deck that reflects your services, niche offers, and your value to potential clients and partners. Your business will start to take shape quickly once you get started!
Is there a mentoring or coaching component? Will I get support from experienced professionals?
Not only will you get guidance and hand holding from me every step of the way, you’ll also assemble a reputable advisory council to strengthen your credibility and provide ongoing guidance. And let’s not mention the additional benefit of my amazing partners, my network and guest speakers!
Will we cover things like legal and operational basics of starting a business?
Remember that network and the guest speakers I talked about? Within this cadre of subject matter experts you’ll get guidance researching and initiating essentials such as registrations, insurances, and state certifications to build a credible and compliant business.
What about social media, AI SEO, and an online presence–will we cover that?
Absolutely. You’ll develop essential digital assets such as a website, newsletter, blog, or podcast, and learn how to get visible and make the most of the right platforms. I call this finding your “Happy Medium”.
Will I actually launch my business during this program?
Yes! By the end of the cohort, you’ll have developed a core service and launched a fully formed, scalable business and put yourself out there for the world to see!
The youth/young adult cohorts also mention apprenticeship. Can you speak more about that component?
Coaching strengthens personal awareness and reveals values and aptitudes alongside building your business and brand. In many cases—as you build your network during the program—apprenticeship is a natural byproduct. Participants are naturally more prepared and poised to articulate their value as they connect with mentors and future collaborators within an apprenticeship environment as they launch their businesses or business ideas.
How much does it cost?
I’ve designed the cohorts to be accelerated and affordable. For the time and money it takes to put a child in week of summer or leadership camp, a person can start a business that will change the course of their life. For these populations, I can’t let time or money block their potential.
Is there a 1:1 or VIP option for the entrepreneurship and business coaching?
I offer 1:1 coaching, but this coaching is separate from the accelerated cohorts. My 1:1 coaching is designed for entrepreneurs who want focused, individualized support. Unlike the cohort programs, every session centers on your unique business, challenges, and growth plan—so you get more direct access, personalized strategy, customized feedback and accountability, and additional touchpoints post coaching—reflected in the higher investment. I’d love to support you one-on-one. Email me and we can get started!