Downtown Dayton’s innovation hub will house a 12-month entrepreneurs’ accelerator program for a well-known incubator. 2023 is the second year the program will be conducted.
The Greater West Dayton Incubator is accepting applications from underrepresented and under-resourced entrepreneurs for the Urban Elevation Accelerator program’s second year in the Dayton Arcade. The yearlong program will help create a strong business foundation and positive profits for their new or existing businesses.
“Our goal is to not just be a provider, but a trusted partner that helps the entrepreneur every step of the way,” said Whitney Barkley, director of the Greater West Dayton Incubator. “The program is uniquely designed to meet under-resourced entrepreneurs where they are and give them the foundation they need to not only be successful, but sustainable.”
Program participants will receive a plethora of opportunity through at The Hub Powered by PNC Bank, one of the nation’s largest university-anchored innovation spaces:
- A six-week bootcamp for business skill training
- Three months of free mentorship from business owners or entrepreneurs
- Student consulting for a special project
- Discounted access to office and coworking space
- Networking opportunities
Entrepreneurs who identify as underrepresented and under-resourced are encouraged to apply, and preference will be given to business owners who serve or live in the Greater West Dayton area.
One of last year’s participants, Taylor Johnson, said the program helped grow her company’s revenue from less than $500 to almost $10,000 in less than one year. Haya Healing, Johnson’s business which helps individuals, professionals and corporations improve their health and wellness, revamped its marketing strategy, received free and clear funding, and connected to industry professionals and community engagement opportunities through the program.
“Haya would not be where it is today without the Greater West Dayton Incubator,” said Johnson, Haya Healing’s founder and chief wellness strategist. “Their staff and partners put hours into coaching, mentoring, sharing vital resources and being a listening ear throughout my entrepreneurial journey. The incubator and program have not only helped us better understand our business in terms of development, marketing and pricing, but they have transformed our perspective on what’s possible for a Dayton small business. Our community is truly blessed to have them as a resource.”
Applications for Urban Elevation Accelerator will be accepted until June 9. Up to 20 entrepreneurs will be accepted into this year's program.
The program is just one offering from the Greater West Dayton Incubator, an initiative created in partnership with Black community leaders in Greater West Dayton and the University of Dayton, with support from The Entrepreneurs Center. The incubator offers access to working space, consulting, training, capital and other resources, including a microloan program, with a focus on the Greater West Dayton area.
