level the playing field
for entrepreneurs FROM DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS
Launched in October 2020, the Catalyst Program creatively re-designs equitable access to capital in an effort to disrupt traditional lending practices that often prevent historically underrepresented entrepreneurs from starting businesses.
Equitable
Access to Capital
Entrepreneurship is a key pathway to narrowing the racial wealth gap and creating generational wealth. However, excluding historically underrepresented entrepreneurs from access to capital ripples through the economy.
Our growth and success as a company provides us with an extraordinary platform to tackle the root causes of this challenge. We have the opportunity and the responsibility to leverage our resources, and harness the ingenuity of our community, to be a catalyst for progress.
Through the Catalyst Program, we strive to bridge the gap between entrepreneurship and equity for businesses owned by marginalized entrepreneurs by connecting founders of early and growth-stage businesses with capital, educational resources and mentorship opportunities.
Choose Your Path
We work side-by-side to guide you through the entrepreneurial journey with confidence. Whether you’re just getting started or have an existing business, we are the trusted partner to help you achieve your most ambitious business goals.
Get
Funding
The Catalyst Fund precipitates fundamental changes in traditional lending practices through patient capital and by building on your great ideas to accelerate your business growth.
Join a
Catalyst Cohort
Over the course of twelve months, you will demonstrate resilience as you work with other entrepreneurs to refine objectives, sharpen your brand identity and create clear strategies for business growth.
Attend a Procurement Workshop
Join our transformative workshop series designed to unlock your business's potential in procurement and contracting. Starting with "Procurement + Contracting 101," we'll guide you through advanced strategies and relationship building to master the art of securing lucrative contracts.
The online application is now open!
Apply for a Grant!
The next round is open from January 16 – February 16.
Attend an orientation session
Not sure where to start?
Join us for an online, interactive information session to discover what resources are available at Mountain BizWorks that will help you start, grow, and thrive in your business. Hosted by our Learning Programs Coordinator, Holly Rivers, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about Mountain BizWorks’ small business lending and learning programs.
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