Program designed to foster the growth of minority-owned small businesses in Cocoa
BREVARD COUNTY • Cocoa, Florida – Applications are now open for the City of Cocoa’s UpStart business development loan program.
Designed to foster the growth of minority-owned small businesses in the City of Cocoa, this unique program offers up to $10,000 for new start-ups or businesses looking to expand to the City of Cocoa. It is a three-year forgiven loan program. .
The application is now available online at www.ChooseCocoa.org/Upstart.
Applications will be accepted until March 15, 2023.
This is the second time the program has been approved by the City Council to prioritize and increase this year’s winners to a total of five new businesses.
Three of the winners must have started their business in the city’s Diamond Square community, and two can be from anywhere in the city.
This program is a three-year forgivable loan program in which you maintain your business in Cocoa and the loan is forgiven after successful completion of the program.
Cocoa Mayor Mike Blake said:
“Business and economic development and expansion is a priority for Cocoa City Council, and we aim to continue growing our community and expanding opportunities for our diverse and unique citizens and business owners.”
Available to minority- and women-owned small businesses, the program helps entrepreneurs succeed in Cocoa City, attracts small minority businesses to the area, and contributes to economic vitality by promoting small businesses. , allows us to foster vibrant communities through the promotion of diverse businesses. .
The program includes a collaboration with the weVenture Women’s Business Center at Florida Institute of Technology to provide customized business mentorship and education through the company’s signature Ignite 360® business mentorship program. increase.
“This involves working with small businesses to identify specific goals and outcomes they want to achieve in order to create sustainable business growth, then pairing them with a team of mentors to reach out in a very structured way. It’s a great opportunity to work with them,” said Kathryn Rudloff, executive director of weVenture.
“These funds will help companies refine their business plans and identify opportunities for growth.”
The application is now available online at www.ChooseCocoa.org/Upstart.
A review panel, elected by the City of Cocoa, reviews all applications submitted and appoints members of the City of Cocoa’s financial staff, Board members of the Diamond Square community redevelopment area, weVenture representatives, and designated community Consists of banking. representative.
Winners will be announced at the upcoming Cocoa City Council.
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