Launch Raleigh
LaunchRALEIGH offers 10 weeks of business training, access to small loans, an assigned mentor from the business community who makes a 6 month commitment to each entrepreneur, and networking opportunities to identify customers and partners who can help entrepreneurs be successful. Our first class was in 2017. Our last class in 2019 had 93 graduates. We're building an ecosystem of main street entrepreneurs. Many of them are now volunteering to help train the next cohorts.
Mission
Our mission is to support and develop entrepreneurs and small businesses in under-resourced communities in Southeast Raleigh, by providing access to business loans, business development services, and networking opportunities.
Storytelling
Bill had a business that was underperforming after four years and needed business training, direction and a team of cheerleaders. LaunchRALEIGH helped Bill pivot his business away from just roasting coffee beans and instead added valuable services to his customers that helped their coffee shops become more successful. Bill’s mentor is holding him accountable to his monthly goals and Bill reports for the first time he’s having fun as a business owner!
Malikia enrolled in a yoga class and realized she was the only woman of color in the class. Yet, she knew that the physical and mental health benefits of yoga were very much needed in the African American community. Ten weeks of business classes helped Malikia develop a business plan and her classmates became friends, cheerleaders and customers. In a pitch competition she earned some funding and Malikia is now volunteering as a mentor in LaunchRALEIGH helping other entrepreneurs be successful.
Type of Organization
- Community Economic Development Organization
Locations Served
- Southeast Raleigh
- North Carolina
Key Programs and Initiatives
- LaunchRALEIGH
Types of Offerings
- Capital
- Entrepreneurial Training
- Matchmaking/networking opportunities
- 1 to 1 business advising
- Technical Assistance
- Continuity and Sustainability Planning
Program Delivery
Members of the Black Community Served
- Immigrants
- Returning Citizens/Formerly incarcerated
- Women
- Veterans
- 65+/Senior Citizens
- Men
Locations of Members of the Black Community Served
- Low-income areas
- Low to moderate income areas
- Suburban areas
- Urban areas
Targeted Entrepreneur Segments
- Business Services
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Wholesale & Retail Trade
- Accommodation & Food Services
- Transportation & Logistics
- Health Care & Social Services
- Technology & Software Development
- Executive and Business Coaching
- Educational Services
Business Stage
- Start Up : a young business that is just beginning to develop and determine a market fit.
- Stay Up : a business that has determined its market fit, but its product/service has not been validated nor has it achieved sustainability.
Cost of Programs
- Free