CO.STARTERS Core
CO.STARTERS Core is a three-month, cohort-based program that equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the insights, relationships, and tools needed to turn ideas into action and turn a passion into a sustainable and thriving endeavor.
Next Cohort Begins:
September 2023
Application Deadline:
August 14th, 2023
Program Cost
$150 (Due First Session)
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Scholarship Opportunities Available
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See Application for Details
Who should apply?
This program is for anyone in Southwest Virginia with an idea and the passion to turn that idea into a thriving business, or someone with an existing business with a desire to take it to the next level.
What to expect?
Starters can expect to embark on a 10 week (1st and final sessions in-person, the remaining virtual) journey together with 10-15 others who share the passion to dive into their ideas
One evening a week commitment
Location:
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Oxbow Center - St Paul, Virginia (Sessions 1 & 10)
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Virtually via Zoom (Sessions 2-9)
Benefits
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Having the support of other new starters cheering you on while deepening those relationships and building your network
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Utilizing a program where 97% of businesses launched survive the 1-Year mark
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Sessions facilitated by entrepreneurs who have started just like you
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Leaving the cohort with immediate leads for funding opportunities and location incentives.
Format
A peek into each session and what will be covered
Notes
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Sessions 1 and 10 will be held in-person at the Oxbow Center in St. Paul, Virginia
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Sessions 2-9 will be held virtually via zoom
Session 1
Knowing Yourself
Introduction, Assumptions, Working Styles, Team Building, Obstacles
Session 2
Knowing Your Customer
Customer, Problem, Alternatives, Idea Testing
Session 3
Finding the Right Solution
Solution, Benefit, Advantage, Starting Small, Brand Identity
Session 4
Getting the Relationship Right
Marketing & Message; Getting, Keeping & Growing Customers
Session 5
Building Blocks
Distribution, Revenue, Typical Offering, Price
Session 6
Structures & Systems
Legal & Accounting Considerations
Session 7
Discovering the Bottom Line
Startup & Ongoing Needs, Fixed & Variable Costs, Break-Even Point
Session 8
Financial Modeling
Break-Even Point, Sales Projections, Cash Flow, Raising Capital
Session 9
Planning for Growth
Growth Plans, Goal Setting, Celebration Prep
Session 10
Celebration!
You made it. It's Party Time
Starter Story
“It’s so satisfying to be able to finally put my skills to work for myself in my own business.”
- Dan Cox // Cox Telecom
SUPPORTED BY WV HIVE
Dan Cox graduated college with a degree in physics in 2015, but he had always known that putting that knowledge to practice would be more exciting than the theory itself.
After dabbling in several divisions of electrical work, Dan found his calling in telecommunications contracting and general contracting.
“I had experience working for several large companies in Pennsylvania,” Dan shared, “but ultimately decided I’d go where there was less competition and that happened to be southern West Virginia.”
Though only recently established last October, Dan hopes to win contracts with major carriers such as AT&T and Verizon for equipment installation, troubleshooting, and as a liaison to the local municipalities.
Once he made the move to West Virginia, Dan began looking for startup resources in the area, eventually coming across WV Hive. Through the Hive, he was able to participate in a recent CO.STARTERS cohort for his brand new contracting business. His cohort of ten starters gave him the confidence he needed to launch.
“CO.STARTERS gave me an in-depth view of what it’s like to be a business owner. I learned a lot about getting my service to the market and the financial components of running a business. I’d highly recommend the program to anyone scared of getting out on their own.”
Even though Dan’s niche is telecommunications contracting, he plans to offer his wide range of skills to the market, including high voltage work, residential and commercial electric services, and general contracting.
Interested in becoming a facilitator or mentor?
The most important resource anyone can have is meaningful connections and mentorships with individuals who want to help them succeed. Do you have experience and knowledge to share? If you're an experienced entrepreneur or business owner, comfortable speaking in front of a group, and interested in investing in the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Southwest Virginia, let's connect! We are always looking to partner with new program facilitators. Facilitator trainees will participate in virtual training sessions to become well versed in CO.STARTERS. Trainees will be provided a stipend for time + travel.
