Start-Up Academy
Start-Up Academy
- Learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship through interactive modules and workshops led by experienced entrepreneurs. See the schedule below to view speakers and events.
- Apply what you learn with meaningful activities and reflections that connect classroom concepts to real-world entrepreneurial practice - designed to fit into your schedule.
- Launch a real venture with a team by creating a coffee brand, making sales, reinvesting profits, and experiencing what it’s like to build and run a business.
What's in it for YOU?
Comprehensive Entrepreneurial Education: Our Entrepreneurial Start-Up Academy provides a thorough education covering all aspects of entrepreneurship, empowering you to confidently navigate the business landscape and turn your ideas into successful ventures.
Expansive Networking Opportunities: Throughout the program, you'll connect directly with diverse organizations and influential individuals, building a powerful network that can lead to collaborations, mentorship, and future growth.
Financial Compensation: In addition to the valuable education and networking, you'll receive compensation for your participation, making it a rewarding opportunity to invest in your entrepreneurial journey.
Sessions are every Thursday (September 18th, 2025 - November 13th, 2025) 11:00AM - 12:30PM
| Week 1: 9/18/25 |
Kickstart Your Coffee Venture (We’ll also walk over to the Iris booth for a professional headshot- so be sure to come picture-ready!) |
| Week 2: 9/25/25 |
Launch Your Coffee Business Guest Speaker: Crystal May (Owner & Founder of Crissy’s Creations) (Team Assignments Announced) |
| Week 3: 10/02/25 |
Build Your Brand - Introduction to Marketing and Customer Relationships Guest Speaker: Rachael Garrison Poe (Marketing Contractor) |
| Week 4: 10/09/25 |
Build Your Brand & Understanding Your Market (cont.) Working Day - No Guest Speaker |
| Week 5: 10/16/25 |
Big Rowdy Idea (12:00 - 2:00 pm) Pitch your coffee venture for the opportunity to win seed funding. (We will provide excused absence letters for classes upon request, if needed.) |
| Week 6: 10/23/25 |
Build Your Business Model Guest Speaker: Jaime Len Cooke (Owner of JLen Events) |
| Week 7: 10/30/25 |
Financial Planning and Market Potential Guest Speaker: Robert Garcia (Owner of I Have a CPA Guy) |
| Week 8: 11/06/25 |
Growth Beyond the Classroom Guest Speaker: Rahul B. Patel (Investor & Owner/founder of Patel Gaines, Attorneys at Law) |
| Week 9: 11/11/25 |
Side Hustle Market 12:00pm - 3:00pm (We will provide excused absence letters for classes upon request, if needed.) |
| Week 9 (Cont.): 11/13/25 |
Reflection Celebration Guest Speakers: Edmund Perez & Bruce (Owner & operators of The District Eatery) |
Orientation (Attendance is Mandatory)
| September 11th, 2025 |
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM Location: Virtual Teams Meeting (Link will be provided closer to the date.) |
