NICHE 1.0 2024-2025 Application Form
About NICHE 1.0
NICHE 1.0 is a dynamic program designed to guide participants in creating detailed business plans and establishing their brand identities. Emphasizing business education and strategic planning, the program provides access to a range of supportive resources as participants advance. These include pro bono legal services, seed funding, mentorship, and expansive social capital networks. The program is intensive and fast-paced, requiring aspiring entrepreneurs to commit at least 30 hours per month over a 12-month period to complete it successfully. Participants are expected to attend at least 75% of all sessions and complete all assignments punctually. While classes are conducted online, coaching and mentoring sessions follow a hybrid format.
How to Apply
To be considered for the Northwest Incubator Cohort 2024, please submit your application by June 30. The cohort will only include 20 selected participants, so ensure your application is clear and comprehensive. This program is facilitated by the Crooked Creek Northwest CDC, and priority will be given to applicants residing within the following zip codes: 46260, 46268, 46278, 46228, 46222, 46208, and 46254. It is important to know that this economic development program aims to open or growth businesses within the same zip codes. In our commitment to fostering equitable entrepreneurship, in partnership with various stakeholders, we may offer additional support to individuals from racial minority groups, low-income households, and immigrant communities.
Application Due: June 30, 2024
Name
First Name
Last Name
Address
Street Address
Street Address Line 2
City
State / Province
Postal / Zip Code
Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.
Email
example@example.com
Website, if applicable.
Targeted Demographics - Programs such as NICHE are supported by both private and public funding sources. Often, these funders are dedicated to specific causes. The questions we ask are not used to make selection decisions, but to help us communicate community needs and the particular challenges faced by certain groups to our funders. Check all that apply.
I am a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur who is either a racial minority or an immigrant.
I receive financial assistance, such as food stamps, TANF, or Medicaid.
I have been involved with the justice-system.
I or someone I know has been involved in a shooting incident in the past 12 months.
I am a veteran.
I am an active member of the military.
Helps us craft programming to fit the cohorts needs. Check all that apply.
My business is registered with the State of Indiana.
I maintain a separate bank account and bookkeeping for my business transactions.
My business is active and grosses less than $500k annually.
I have a written business plan.
I've participated in SBA, SCORE or other small business development programs.
I understand that I am required to attend 9 of 12 sessions in order to graduate.
I understand that I must dedicate 30 hours per month to successfully complete this program.
I am active social media and have a company website.
I have a logo.
I thoroughly understand company tax structures.
I thoroughly understand insurance for my business.
Are you developing a business concept, or is your business already up and running? Please describe your business's current stage.
Please provide a thorough description of your business idea. Describe your business model (how you will generate revenue money). 25 points
What makes your business idea innovative or unique? 15 points
This cohort is designed to support startups or aspiring entrepreneurs in their pursuit to start, manage, and grow a business. Specifically, the program goals include developing a fully-written business plan and company brand. Please share why this program is a good fit for your business. What do you hope to gain from participating in this cohort? 15 points
What are the biggest challenges you've faced in your business?
What specific areas are you seeking support with from this cohort (e.g., funding, mentorship, network access)?
Can you commit to the required time (e.g., 30 hours per month) for participating in this cohort? Please describe how you plan to manage your time in this program.
Is there anything else you would like to share that has not been covered in the application?
Agreements
I agree that if I open a brink and mortar business, it will be located within the Crooked Crook Northwest CDC's boundaries.
I understand that I am required to attend 9 of 12 sessions in order to graduate.
I understand that I must dedicate 30 hours per month to successfully complete this program.
I have access to a reliable laptop/computer and internet.
I understand that I will be expected to participate in class discussions and have my camera on at all times.
Submit
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