Entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for creating change and building stronger communities, but it often comes with challenges, especially for minority-led businesses. The Homegrown Accelerator program is here to address these challenges by empowering minority entrepreneurs, particularly Black business owners, to turn their ideas into sustainable and thriving businesses. This eight-week program offers participants mentorship, resources, and a supportive network, all designed to help them make a lasting impact on their communities.

Program Overview

The Homegrown Accelerator is a free, eight-week program tailored for early-stage businesses owned by people of color. The program specifically focuses on Black entrepreneurs but is open to anyone. With 20 seats available, this program aims to equip participants with the tools they need to grow, sustain, and further develop their businesses. Each week, participants will engage in two-hour sessions where they’ll receive education and guidance from subject matter experts, not only from Sacramento but from across the country.

What to Expect

Participants in the Homegrown Accelerator can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of the essential elements needed to build a successful business. The program covers everything from business formation, securing necessary licenses, and understanding business operation taxes, to the more nuanced aspects of business growth and sustainability. One of the unique aspects of this program is its commitment to reducing financial barriers for participants. The program offers a stipend of up to $500 to help with the costs of obtaining a business license or other necessary paperwork.

In addition to these practical resources, the program also emphasizes the importance of community. All sessions are held in person at the House of Common Good in Del Paso, creating a space where participants can build connections and support each other’s growth. The program is supported by funding from the City of Sacramento, Golden 1 Credit Union, and SMUD, making it possible to offer these resources at no cost to the participants.

Featured Speakers

The Homegrown Accelerator boasts an impressive lineup of mentors and guest speakers who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the program. Here are some of the featured speakers:

  • Roshaun Davis: Founder of Unseen Heroes, Roshaun is a dynamic community builder with a passion for creating spaces that foster connections.
  • Tiffani Sharp: A seasoned attorney and investment advisor, Tiffani specializes in economic empowerment for undervalued communities. She runs T. Sharp Wealth Management LLC, the only Black woman-owned independent registered investment advisory firm in Sacramento.
  • Will Crowder: A general partner at Aperture Venture and former venture capitalist with Comcast Ventures, Will has a deep understanding of venture capital and has been instrumental in supporting Black entrepreneurs.
  • Nicholas Haystings: Co-founder of Square Root Academy and a driving force behind the Homegrown Accelerator, Nicholas is dedicated to empowering minority entrepreneurs in the Sacramento region.
  • Mariah Lichtenstern: Founding Partner at DiverseCity Ventures, Mariah brings her expertise in venture capital and her commitment to supporting diverse entrepreneurs to the Homegrown Accelerator. Mariah is also a member of StartupSac’s board of directors.

Wrap-Up

The Homegrown Accelerator is more than just a program—it’s a movement to empower minority-led businesses to thrive and make a positive impact on their communities. With its combination of mentorship, resources, and a strong support network, this program is an invaluable opportunity for entrepreneurs of color to grow their businesses and achieve lasting success. Applications are open now, with the program set to begin on September 19th. If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, don’t hesitate to apply and take the first step toward building a brighter future for your business and community. The deadline to apply is September 17th Apply today!

Interested in learning about more events happening in the Greater Sacramento region? Check our event listings!