Part One: Unlocking Small Business Potential Seminar

A dynamic and informative 90-minute seminar designed to equip individuals - particularly those with disabilities, Veterans, and people formerly justice-involved - with the essential knowledge, skills, and strategies required to launch and grow a successful small business. Participants will learn about the new 7-week mini-course being offered through Dominican University New York that will dive deeper into the particulars of starting a business. You'll work with mentors to develop a business plan, marketing plan, and more. The course culminates in a juried capstone and $15,000 for start-up costs - with three selectees receiving $5,000 apiece. Free and open to everyone.

This event has ended. Participation in the seminar is not required for Part Two.

Part Two: Small Business Incubator and Case Competition

When: Wednesdays, March 13 through April 24, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: Dominican University New York, Palisades Room (Casey Hall), Orangeburg, NY (View Map)

The 7-week accelerated Small Business Incubator and Case Competition is an intensive program that will provide hands-on guidance and mentorship, enabling aspiring entrepreneurs to refine their business concepts, develop robust business plans, and gain a deeper understanding of market dynamics.

The incubator culminates in a case competition, where participants will showcase their business proposal pitch to a panel of judges consisting of industry experts and community-based investors. The competition will not only provide invaluable feedback but also offer participants the opportunity to secure seed funding and other essential resources to launch their ventures, with three selectees receiving $5,000 apiece.

Course Details
The course will run every Wednesday from March 13 through April 17 on the Dominican University New York campus, with the final class on April 24 reserved for pitches. A Zoom option for the class is available, though in-person participation is highly recommended. All participants will be required to make their final presentations in-person on April 24th. Enrollment is limited to 40 participants, all of whom will earn credit toward an undergraduate or graduate degree depending upon their current academic status and the associated assignment pathway they chose. Learn more about the course here, or contact DUNY faculty member Matt Schiering for further details.

Enrollment and Scholarships
The Small Business Incubator and Case Competition is open to everyone! Participation in the seminar is not required for the 7-week course. Tuition is $782. Scholarships are available, including scholarships from BRIDGES for people with disabilities, Veterans, and people formerly justice-involved. For information on scholarships and enrollment, contact Vicki Caramante or Matt Schiering.

Part Three: Enrollment in Dominican University's AACSB Accredited MBA or MSOLC Program

Recognizing the importance of continuous education and professional development, the initiative offers participants the chance to enroll in Dominican University's prestigious AACSB accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) or M.S. in Organizational Leadership Communication (MSOLC) program. These programs, known for their rigorous curriculum and esteemed faculty, equip students with the advanced business knowledge, leadership skills, and global perspectives required to excel in today's complex business environment. Through this partnership, aspiring entrepreneurs can benefit from a comprehensive academic foundation while accessing valuable networking opportunities and mentorship from industry leaders.