Deadlines loom for funding, educational and fellowship opportunities

Opportunities abound, Kansas City.

Whether you’re an early stage entrepreneur looking for some extra cash, representing an organization aiming to double down on its efforts, or someone seeking mentorship, the Kansas City entrepreneurial community has options available — if you take the initiative.

To lend a hand, we’ve gathered some timely opportunities. Act quickly! Deadlines are drawing near.

E-scholars
Application deadline: Aug. 31

A program of the Henry W. Bloch School of Management at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, e-scholars is open to both community members and UMKC students. The nine-month program offers intensive, early stage venture development, as well as the resources that budding entrepreneurs need to succeed.

The next class is expected to accept 35 entrepreneurs and is set to begin Sept. 9. Accepted ventures will have access to workshops, a large network of mentors and pro-bono legal services.

Since the program’s launch in 2011, e-scholars has seen more than 60 entrepreneurs launch ventures, such as Lending Standard, RFP 365, Integrated Roadways, Mobility Designed and others.

For more information and to apply, click here.

I-corps Site Program
Application deadline: Aug. 23

Have a technology-based idea? Beginning Aug. 23, UMKC’s Small Business and Technology Development Center plans to offer a new program for entrepreneurs and academics.

Leaders with the I-Corps Site Program want to turn your idea into a market-ready, commercially-viable business. Thanks to funding from the National Science Foundation, participants have the opportunity to develop a business model, learn about technology commercialization and interview industry experts.

In addition, selected participants will receive a $3,000 grant to develop a prototype, to travel or for other business needs. The five-week program requires a commitment of 10 to 12 hours per week.

Click here to learn more and to apply.

Missouri Technology Corporation grants
Application deadline: Sep. 7

As part of the Missouri Building Entrepreneurial Capacity (MOBEC) program, the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) is now accepting applications for funding.

A cornerstone of MTC’s investment strategy, the MOBEC program makes strategic investments in public or private non-profit Missouri research institutions or entrepreneurial support organizations.

The MOBEC program aims to enhance the capacity of organizations that support entrepreneurs and, ultimately, create sustainable, high-paying jobs. Awards will not exceed $500,000.

To apply, click here.

Pipeline Entrepreneurs
Application deadline: Oct. 19

High performing entrepreneur in the Midwest? Pipeline Entrepreneurs will soon accept applications for its fellowship program.

Eligible entrepreneurs hail from Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska. The 12th-annual program is expected to admit 10 entrepreneurs to participate in a rigorous, yearlong leadership development program, including workshops, modules and mentorship.

Touting an impressive mentor and alumni network of business leaders, Pipeline affords its cohorts entrepreneurial education and friendship. A few Kansas City-area Pipeline grads include EyeVerify CEO Toby Rush, Rawxies founder Callie England, VideoFizz founder Laura Steward, and Farmobile CEO Jason Tatge.

The online application opens Sep. 1. Until then, refer a potential pipeline applicant by clicking here.