Powered By: Red Wing Ignite
Turn your ideas into action!
What is CO.STARTERS?
It is a comprehensive entrepreneurship program designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the essential tools and knowledge needed to launch and grow your own business.
This program takes an active approach and walks participants through a step-by-step process, with a focus on practical application and real-world scenarios. It provides a supportive and collaborative environment where participants can learn from experienced mentors and fellow entrepreneurs.
Who is it for?
It is designed for individuals who have a business idea or are in the early stages of starting their own venture. It will provide you with the necessary tools and resources to turn your idea into a successful business.
Small business owners like you, who want to refine your business model, explore new growth opportunities, and want to overcome the challenges you may be facing in your current operations.
Creative professionals such as artists, designers, writers, and musicians that want to transform your creative talents into a sustainable business. It helps bridge the gap between your artistic skills and entrepreneurial know-how.
It’s ideal for individuals who are passionate about building vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystems in your community. CO.STARTERS will equip you with the knowledge and tools to support and mentor local entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth.
It’s a great fit for individuals who are looking to transition from traditional employment to entrepreneurship. It will provide you with the guidance and support needed to navigate the challenges of starting a new business and make a successful career change.
How does it work?
CO.STARTERS is a 10 week program.
A certified facilitator will guide a small group of 10-15 supportive peers who share similar goals, through a proven curriculum.
Together, you’ll refine your ideas, carefully analyzing each aspect and receive immediate feedback. This collaborative approach helps you identify the strengths & weaknesses of your idea and accelerates the discovery of a viable business model.
Sessions will be held once a week on Tuesdays from 3:30p – 6p.
By the end, you’ll have a plan for a sustainable business and be ready to apply the process to your next brilliant idea.
Program Content
Week 1
Know yourself
Dig into what’s driving you and understand what it will take to achieve your dream.
Week 2
Understand your customers
Pinpoint what your customer wants and how to adapt to their needs.
Week 3
Business solutions & starting small
Test your solution by starting small and making adjustments as needed.
Week 4
Getting, keeping & growing customers
Build customer relationships through your messaging & marketing.
Week 5
Revenue, pricing, & distribution
Figure out your logistics and how you’ll make money.
Week 6
Legal & accounting
Understand the systems and structures you’ll need to support your business.
Week 7
Financial modeling
Determine your costs and whether your business model is financially viable.
Week 8
Funding & raising capital
Know your options for finding the funds you need to grow sustainably.
Week 9
Growth plans & goal setting
Gain momentum and leave with a strategy for achieving your goals.
Week 10
Celebration & final pitch event!
Reflect on your journey and celebrate your success. Your future starts now.
Complimentary Support Services
Legal Services
1 hour of legal support
Coaching
10 hours of one-on-one coaching
Material Support
$200 in marketing materials
(Banners, Tablecloth, Business Cards)
Technical Assistance
Technical Assistance grant for:
Ex. Marketing, Web Design, Accounting, Website setup / Domain secured, educational materials
Coworking
10 weeks of FREE coworking
Mentorship
3 hours of mentoring
How much does it cost?
This 10-week program costs $150.00 per participant, which includes the curriculum, facilitation through Red Wing Ignite-based certified CO.STARTERS, and access to a community of support.
Program fees include program materials and are refundable upon successful completion of the program.
Ignite has a limited number of scholarships available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Please contact us to see if you qualify for a scholarship.
Reach out to Eve at eve@redwingignite.org with questions.
January 7th - March 11th
Ignite
Funding provided by: Launch Minnesota Xcel Energy Foundation, and the
Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
