The following information was provided by Workforce One about a new free program open to entrepreneurs throughout South Florida. The model has been used in other parts of Florida and has been successful.
Startup Quest is a new innovative program that provides hands-on training to individuals who want to become entrepreneurs by connecting them with successful CEOs who have experience in technology-based companies. They mentor and guide the individuals through the process of creating business plans to bring new, patentable inventions and technologies to market
Startup Quest is open to people with college degrees who are either unemployed or under-employed, and considering self-employment or working for a startup as a career path. Veterans are given preference in the selection process. To learn more about program requirements and to submit an application, please visit http://workforceone.startupquest.org/how-to-apply/.
Interested candidates are also invited to attend a no-obligation Introductory Workshop on Thursday, Aug. 22 (1 pm to 5 pm) at the Signature Grand in Davie. Applications for the program will be accepted at the workshop; however, it is recommended to apply early to avoid long lines.
Participants will gain increased knowledge about advanced technologies, emerging industries, entrepreneurship, market analysis, financial projections, management and the technology development process. “We hope to launch more local technology businesses and help many qualified people find rewarding jobs,” said Mason Jackson, president of WorkForce One Employment Solutions.
The intensive 10-week course is offered free of charge to qualifying candidates. It will take place at the Signature Grand on Thursday afternoons (1 pm to 5 pm) from Sept. 12 - Nov. 14, 2013.
Schedule of Training Sessions:
Session 1: Technology Matching and Team Building, 9/12
Session 2: Understanding the Value Proposition, 9/19
Session 3: Market Analysis and Strategy, 9/25
Session 4: Commercialization Strategies and Intellectual Property, 10/3
Session 5: Financial Requirements for taking a Product to Market, 10/10
Session 6: Presentation Skills, 10/17
Session 7: Corp Structures and Management Team, 10/24
Session 8: Sources of Funding, 10/31
Session 9: Business Plan Submission and Work Session, 11/7
Session 10: Investor Pitch, 11/14
The weekly sessions are led by experienced entrepreneurs and startup mentors. Participants will develop a go-to-market plan for a real technology selected by the mentors and approved by the tech-transfer offices. Mentors come from technology-based industries, such as software, information technology/information systems, aerospace, advanced materials and coatings, nanotechnology, robotics, medical devices, biotechnology, life sciences, automation, and other technology industries. Mentors have startup experience and/or know how to successfully bring a new technology to market.
Startup Quest is part of an evaluation study funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration Workforce Innovation Fund.