The EMERGE Entrepreneur Incubator Program serves early stage entrepreneurs in the 0-4 year start up phase. We focus on underserved, low-to-moderate income, male and female SEDI entrepreneurs who are African American, Hispanic, Native American (Tribal) and/or live in rural or urban communities seeking to complete a rigorous 12-month incubator. Completion goals include being qualified to acquire minimum capital of $15,000 - $25,000. Incubator cohorts are delivered via three methods: in-person, hybrid and virtually throughout the state of Kansas and in the following cities; Kansas City, KS, Kansas City, MO and St. Louis, MO. Through facilitated curriculum and 1:1 technical assistance, entrepreneurs have an increased chance of gaining capital from various funders.
In the second 12-week cycle, entrepreneurs with the help of our technical assistants prepare for capital access, assessments and application process, assistance to apply, pitch and compete for funding.
The third 12-week cycle consists of the entrepreneur receiving technical assistance to implement acquired funding properly once received by establishing back office support practices, repayment tracking.
The final 12-week cycle ends with peer and 1:1 assistance for accountability of funding and social reciprocity by providing internships and/or mentorship opportunities.