BUSINESS ACCELERATOR
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The BOBKC Accelerator Program is a free, one-year program offered twice a year in Kansas City. This program offers a unique combination of immersive business training, mentorship and access to an extended professional network. Anyone with a dream to start or grow a business or nonprofit is encouraged to apply.
PRIMARY BENEFITS
- Absolutely no cost to participate.
- Cohort model featuring up to 15 entrepreneurs per class facilitates collaboration and teamwork.
- Practical, intensive sessions with content specialists cover critical early-stage business challenges (i.e. value proposition, fundraising, bookkeeping, pricing, social media).
- Opportunity to win seed money each quarter.
- Open to all individuals in and around the Kansas City area.
- A team of three dedicated Mentors to guide each entrepreneur take the business idea to the next level.
- Proven ability to provide entrepreneurs with increased confidence, clarity, and connections.
- Lifelong membership in the BOBKC community!
HOW IT WORKS
BOBKC’s year-long Accelerator Program is broken into two distinct phases:
During the first three months:
- Entrepreneurs attend classes as part of a “cohort” (up to 15 other entrepreneurs) taught by content specialists twice a week. Classes will be a mix of online and in-person.
- Entrepreneurs meet online with their very own team of three Mentors for 90 minutes every week to help guide them in taking their idea to the next level.
- At the end of three months, an in-person Showcase and Celebration event is held for entrepreneurs to celebrate their Accelerator Program accomplishments with friends, family and community.
- Total weekly time commitment is 8-10 hours including 5 hours of classes, 1.5 hours of online mentor meetings, and additional time to work on your business.
For the remaining nine months:
- Entrepreneurs meet online with their mentor teams once a month for 90 minutes
- Entrepreneurs meet with their cohort teams once per quarter.
Throughout the year-long program, there are quarterly opportunities to receive small cash prizes.
WHO SHOULD APPLY
The Accelerator Program is open to all individuals located in or near an Kansas City and is offered at no cost.
BOBKC’s program works with individuals across a wide range of industries and it is open to people who are still in the idea stage, people with a hobby looking to take it to the next level, or those looking to pivot and grow an existing business or nonprofit.
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
FAQ’s
A: A: You should live in or near the Kansas City Area, even if it is held virtually.
A: You are a good fit for The BOBKC Accelerator if you can answer yes to these questions!
- Are you looking to launch a business or move your business forward?
- Are you interested in practical, hands-on learning and coaching with a group of other entrepreneurs like you?
- Are you open to constructive criticism to benefit your business?
If you answered yes to these questions, then you should be a good fit. Our staff is always happy to speak with you about your business before you apply.
A: BOBKC is interested in ideas from all industries – including nonprofits.
A: A business plan is not required. You just need to show us your passion, dedication, and indicate that you’ve done some initial research.
A: One co-founder should serve as the point person and commit to attending all classes, mentor meetings and events. If other co-founder(s) can join for some meetings, it is helpful but not required. For the initial interview, it is ideal if all founders are present if possible.