There are many eCourses on the market, but many are built for technology startups, leaving most small businesses with very few support opportunities. The Launch & Growth Academies are the answer to this market need. These programs have been vetted by over 1,500 entrepreneurs and supported by organizations like the Women’s Business Center, the Small Business Development Center and by companies like Bank of America. Each academy is facilitated by an experienced entrepreneur and connects participants to peer support. Each week cohort participants will meet for two hours to discuss the eCourse material covered in the prior week. These sessions are critical to build community and push through challenges. All weekly classroom sessions take place via Zoom, ensuring equitable access for all. LAUNCH ACADEMY This program guides aspiring entrepreneurs through the 17 foundational steps of launching a business. Each week participants will complete 2-3 steps of the launch process and will be required to submit checkpoint questions before moving to the next step. These will be collected in a document for reference. The capstone will require each participant to create a one-page business plan and a polished elevator pitch. While anyone would benefit from this business fundamentals program, it was designed with a small business owner in mind (versus someone who is building a highly scalable, venture-backed business). GROWTH ACADEMY This program guides small business owners through the steps needed to scale their business. The capstone will require each participant to create and present a pitch to an investor, bank, or strategic growth partner. While the program covers all possible fundraising options (debt, equity, crowdfunding, etc), this course is best suited for small business owners who will be more likely to utilize debt to scale their business.