Please do not leave this page until complete. This can take a few moments.
Maine is getting another startup accelerator, but with a focus on underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneurship for All (EforAll), a Lowell, Mass.-based nonprofit, will bring its programming to Maine with funding from Maine Technology Institute for three years.
Participants will receive training and support to start, grow, or sustain a business or nonprofit across a range of industries from professional services to manufacturing and technology.
"We know that Mainers are industrious, highly motivated and entrepreneurial, and there are some great organizations in place to help a lot of these individuals," Meralis T. Hood, CEO of EforAll, told Mainebiz. "EforAll is unique in that it plans to focus specifically on underserved entrepreneurs who may not be pursuing their business ideas, as it simply feels too daunting or out of reach.”
She added that EforAll Maine “is here for those individuals and is equipped to help them realize their business or nonprofit dreams, from restaurants, beauty salons and charter fishing boat businesses to elder care and handmade crafts, and everything in between."
She also notes that while small businesses account for 99.2% of Maine's total, only 1.1% are Hispanic-owned, and 2.6% are owned by members of other racial minority groups. That "proves a need for a program focused on supporting typically under-represented entrepreneurs to create a more inclusive ecosystem,” she said.
MTI is the program's lead sponsor.
"EforAll programs will enable more BIPOC entrepreneurs to gain the confidence and the skills to dream big and leverage the support groups throughout the state that can ensure success," said MTI President Brian Whitney.
EforAll's programming includes regular pitch contests and a year-long business accelerator offered twice a year. The program combines practical business training with dedicated mentorship from local businesses and community leaders, along with access to a large professional network.
"We're excited for the opportunity to launch in yet another New England state, making it the third in our roster, following Massachusetts and Rhode Island," said EforAll CEO Meralis hood. "We are grateful to the support of MTI and look forward to delivering programming that can benefit all aspiring entrepreneurs across the state."
The nonprofit plans to have a physical presence in Portland, Bangor and Lewiston-Auburn, and plans to kick off its first pitch contest in fall 2023 and its first accelerator program the following spring.
EforAll is seeking an executive director for the Maine program. A spokesperson for the organization told Mainebiz that interviews are underway, but the application is still open for any interested candidates. After that job is filled, the organization plans to hire a program manager and part-time program coordinator as well. Anyone who is interested in the EforAll Maine executive director role can find out more and apply here.
The Giving Guide helps nonprofits have the opportunity to showcase and differentiate their organizations so that businesses better understand how they can contribute to a nonprofit’s mission and work.
Learn MoreWork for ME is a workforce development tool to help Maine’s employers target Maine’s emerging workforce. Work for ME highlights each industry, its impact on Maine’s economy, the jobs available to entry-level workers, the training and education needed to get a career started.
Learn MoreFew people are adequately prepared for all the tasks involved in planning and providing care for aging family members. SeniorSmart provides an essential road map for navigating the process. This resource guide explores the myriad of care options and offers essential information on topics ranging from self-care to legal and financial preparedness.
Learn moreThe Giving Guide helps nonprofits have the opportunity to showcase and differentiate their organizations so that businesses better understand how they can contribute to a nonprofit’s mission and work.
Work for ME is a workforce development tool to help Maine’s employers target Maine’s emerging workforce. Work for ME highlights each industry, its impact on Maine’s economy, the jobs available to entry-level workers, the training and education needed to get a career started.
Few people are adequately prepared for all the tasks involved in planning and providing care for aging family members. SeniorSmart provides an essential road map for navigating the process. This resource guide explores the myriad of care options and offers essential information on topics ranging from self-care to legal and financial preparedness.
In order to use this feature, we need some information from you. You can also login or register for a free account.
By clicking submit you are agreeing to our cookie usage and Privacy Policy
Already have an account? Login
Already have an account? Login
Want to create an account? Register
In order to use this feature, we need some information from you. You can also login or register for a free account.
By clicking submit you are agreeing to our cookie usage and Privacy Policy
Already have an account? Login
Already have an account? Login
Want to create an account? Register
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Our privacy policy
To ensure the best experience on our website, articles cannot be read without allowing cookies. Please allow cookies to continue reading. Our privacy policy
0 Comments