the mandela entrepreneurs Program
The Mandela Entrepreneurs Program supports the launch and growth of community-based businesses by providing foundational business development support services that are culturally relevant and entrepreneur driven.
The Program is divided into two core components.
1
The Mandela Entrepreneurs Workshop Series serves as the first rung in a ladder to entrepreneurship cultivation. The workshop series targets underserved entrepreneurs looking for ways to start, grow, or expand their businesses, and is provided in partnership with local community groups to ensure place-based connection, support, and accessibility.
2
Workshop graduates gain access to One-on-One Advising, a vetted business development support network, and low-cost capital. Our one-on-one advising program serves limited-resource entrepreneurs looking to dive deeper into finalizing a business plan, developing financials and planned growth projections. Mandela also provides tailored support for launching or growing their food business.
Our advisors serve as a sounding board, accountability support, and long-term partner. Entrepreneurs who are accepted into Mandela's advising program gain access to bi-monthly advising sessions, with the intention readying them to take part in vetted sector specific business development or acceleration programs, and / or access to capital through Mandela's Community Capital programs.