StartupSac Receives Grant to Expand FastTrac® Entrepreneurial Training Program

StartupSac is excited to announce new funding from the City of Sacramento’s “Innovation Incubator and Accelerator Grants.” This grant will allow us to bring back FastTrac® in 2025. The program will help aspiring entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses through two upcoming cohorts.

The City of Sacramento continues to show its commitment to supporting early-stage businesses. This funding boosts innovation, economic development, and opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Their support helps organizations like ours deliver impactful programs while contributing to a more inclusive future for Sacramento’s business community.

The City’s Investment in Entrepreneurs

The City of Sacramento’s Innovation Incubator and Accelerator Grants empower organizations that help entrepreneurs thrive. This year, the City awarded over $450,000 to six projects. These grants will help early-stage businesses achieve success.

Deputy Director of the Office of Innovation and Economic Development Denise Malvetti highlighted the importance of these investments. “The City’s investments are not just an investment in supporting startups, but an investment in Sacramento’s future,” she said.

We are proud to partner with the City and build a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Sacramento.

Celebrating the 2024 Grant Recipients

This year’s grant recipients showcase the creativity and diversity of Sacramento’s innovation ecosystem. We’re honored to join these impactful organizations:

  • Alchemist Kitchen CDC ($88,100): Supports food entrepreneurs from underserved communities through training, mentorship, and access to commercial kitchens.
  • AMW Design/SacTown Makers ($57,906): Provides BIPOC entrepreneurs with skills in technology, design, and engineering to power their businesses.
  • Atrium 916 ($50,000): Promotes sustainable micro-manufacturing and eco-friendly innovation through workshops and mentorship.
  • Carlsen Center at Sacramento State ($99,560): The Traction Lab Venture Accelerator will help pre-seed and seed-stage startups find the market traction they need to get to their next fundraising round.
  • CleanStart ($100,000): The Deep Dive Accelerator helps clean-tech startups refine their business models and scale for growth.
  • StartupSac ($57,304): The FastTrac program offers comprehensive business training and mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities.

You can read the full announcement from the City of Sacramento here.

FastTrac®: Empowering Entrepreneurs in 2025

StartupSac FastTrac entrepreneur bootcamp 2023 cohort.

FastTrac® is a 12-week course designed for individuals who either live within the Sacramento city limits or plan to establish their business within the city limits. The program guides participants through every stage of starting a business, from validating ideas to navigating funding and legal requirements. It also offers mentorship, community support, and coworking space access.

Thanks to this grant, FastTrac® will return in 2025 with two cohorts. If your residence or business is located within Sacramento city limits and you’re ready to launch a business, sign up on our interest form. We’ll notify you when applications open for the first cohort in Q1 2025.

A Shared Commitment to Sacramento’s Future

We are grateful to the City of Sacramento for its leadership and financial support. These grants make programs like FastTrac® possible. Together, we’re helping entrepreneurs thrive, fostering innovation, and building a stronger Sacramento.

Stay tuned for updates on FastTrac® and the exciting businesses that will emerge from this program!

Interested in learning about events and programs for entrepreneurs happening in the Greater Sacramento region? Check our event listings!