In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the Women’s Business Center (WBC) at Cornerstone Alliance is launching a new initiative to support budding entrepreneurs with startup grants. Rather than providing direct cash awards, the WBC’s new grant program offers tailored services designed to address the specific needs of each recipient’s business.
Grant Details
The WBC recognizes that securing capital is a significant challenge for new businesses. To address this, the grant will be awarded in the form of services rather than cash. These services are intended to help startups overcome initial hurdles and set a strong foundation for future success.
Director’s Insights
Brandy Jaquez, WBC Director, emphasized the program’s focus on fulfilling the unique needs of each startup. “It really is about helping a new business start and filling a void that they have,” Jaquez said. The goal is to empower entrepreneurs by providing them with the tools and support necessary to bring their business ideas to fruition.
Eligibility and Application Process
The grant is open to any business or entrepreneur who meets the following criteria:
Location: Businesses must be based in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren counties.
Business Duration: Eligible applicants must have been in business for six months or less.
To apply, entrepreneurs must submit their business idea by September 23 at 9 a.m. Finalists will be invited to present their ideas at an event on October 3. This presentation will not only serve as an opportunity to pitch their business but also to gain valuable exposure and network with potential collaborators and supporters.
Event Details
The presentation event on October 3 is designed to offer finalists a platform to refine their pitching skills and gain visibility for their business ventures. Jaquez highlights the dual benefit of this event: “It’s giving them a friendly audience to hone that skill of pitching. And then second, it’s also exposure. So it’s letting people know about your business and what’s coming up and potentially you network and you find some connections and maybe even some collaborators for your business.”
How to Apply
Interested entrepreneurs should prepare their business ideas and submit them before the deadline. For more information on the application process and to submit your idea, visit the WBC’s website here.
About the Women’s Business Center at Cornerstone Alliance
The Women’s Business Center at Cornerstone Alliance has been a cornerstone of support for local entrepreneurs for two decades. Its mission is to foster the growth and development of women-owned businesses through a range of services, including mentoring, training, and financial assistance. This new grant initiative further underscores the WBC’s commitment to nurturing new businesses and contributing to the economic vitality of the region.
