Chapter 1: Ford Fund Fellowship

The Ford Fund Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and community leaders dedicated to fostering significant, sustainable change within their communities.

Here are the essential details:

• Application Period: March 4th to June 27th, 2024, featuring a 16-week program.
• Culminating Event: On June 27th, 2024, selected Fellows will showcase their initiatives to local leaders and potential funders.
• Funding: A total of $40,000 will be allocated among selected Fellows based on their progress and impact during the Fellowship.

Ideal Candidates:

You should be an entrepreneur or community leader with a proven commitment to initiating sustainable change. Your venture should ideally focus on mobility, transportation, or accessibility and be in the early stages of development, demonstrating a history of making a difference.

Target Locations:

Eligible applicants from various global regions, including China, Germany, Mexico, Romania, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, as well as U.S. cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and more, are encouraged to apply.

Expectations:

You seek comprehensive entrepreneurial training, a community of peers for feedback, and an extensive mentorship network to enhance your leadership skills and venture impact.

What You Will Achieve:

With the support of the Watson Institute, you will receive a strategic roadmap to enhance the scalability of your efforts. You will also lead a community workshop, supported by a stipend and resources to realize your vision.

Application Process:

1. Submit Applications: Complete the online application (approximately 45 minutes). The deadline is January 15th, 2024.
2. Review: Applications will be assessed by the Admissions Committee, focusing on innovative and scalable ventures.
3. Interviews: Selected candidates will have a 20-minute Zoom interview starting the week of January 2nd, 2024.
4. Final Review: Profiles of promising candidates will be shared with an external committee for selection.
5. Acceptance Notifications: Announcements will be made in the week of February 1st, 2024.
6. Enrollment Confirmation: Final steps include confirming your commitment and participating in a cohort webinar before the program starts.

Chapter 2: Feed the Soul Foundation

The Feed the Soul Foundation is dedicated to addressing food injustice by offering resources, training, and community connections. Their Restaurant Business Development Grant Program opens applications from October 5th to January 31st.

Overview:

With a fund of $15,000 available for culinary development support, this program aims to ensure that participating businesses achieve financial sustainability and operational efficiency.

Support Offered:

• Six months of tailored consultations and educational training.
• Financial stipends based on individual business needs.
• Ongoing training to assist in operational procedures.

Chapter 3: Sephora Beauty Grant

The Sephora Beauty Grant offers a chance to win $100,000 to boost your beauty business. To apply, you must create or update your business profile within the Fifteen Percent Pledge's Business Equity Community.

Application Timeline:

• Opens: November 13
• Closes: December 18
• Finalists Notified: Early January
• Winner Announcement: February 3 at the annual gala.

Eligibility:

• Must be a member of the Fifteen Percent Pledge's Business Equity Community.
• Business should generate annual revenue of $100K or more.
• At least 50% equity must be held by a self-identifying Black person.
• Employ 3-15 people and demonstrate community impact through inclusivity.

Chapter 4: AICPA and CPA.com Startup Accelerator

Explore innovative solutions in the accounting and finance sectors with the AICPA and CPA.com Startup Accelerator. This program focuses on enhancing professional efficiency and value addition through technology.

Focus Areas:

1. AccountTech: Innovations in automation and artificial intelligence for accounting tasks.
2. RegTech: Technologies that assist in regulatory compliance and monitoring.

Conclusion:

These opportunities not only provide financial support but also equip entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and networks to thrive in their respective fields. Apply today and take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey!