New scholarship opportunities for urban entrepreneurs available in August

The Urban Business Growth Initiative announced it released new scholarship opportunities for urban entrepreneurs in Kansas City beginning in August.

Launched in 2013, the initiative offers a variety of programs that fuel urban business growth — whether that be counseling, classes or access to resources. The UBGI helped 92 scholarship award-winners generate $29.5 million in sales and $4.3 million in investment capital in 2016.  

For entrepreneurs, vetting your idea can be costly. That’s why the UBGI pushes its services to low- and moderate-income individuals in the urban core who wish to start or grow businesses. With these scholarships, residents of Kansas City can test the feasibility of their businesses without hurting their wallets.

The UBGI is funded by the City of Kansas City, Mo., and the U.S. Small Business Administration. The initiative is a collaboration of KC BizCare, KCSourcelink, UMKC Small Business and Technology Development Center, the Procurement Technical Assistance Center, Justine PETERSEN and the Women’s Business Center.

Scholarships are limited, but all eligible and interested parties are asked to apply. For more information click here.

Here is more about the available courses:

FastTrac NewVenture
This course explores the feasibility of a business concept and teaches participants how to develop a viable business plan.
When: Tuesdays Aug. 1 — 29
Cost: $649, $75 with scholarship

FastTrac GrowthVenture
Targeting toward existing business owners, this class helps entrepreneurs improve business strategy and performance
When: Fridays Aug. 18 – Oct. 20
Cost: $795, $75 with scholarship

Icehouse Entrepreneurship Program
This program teaches aspiring business owners with an idea how to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset.
When: Aug. 30 — Oct. 18
Cost: $795, $75 with scholarship

FastTrac TechVenture
This course provides technology and science-based entrepreneurs with a proven framework and network of connections to help grow a great idea into the next viable innovation.
When: Sept. 27 —Nov. 29
Cost: $795, $75 with scholarship