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UNF Swisher Growth Cohort for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs Accepting Applications

The University of North Florida’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CEI) and Swisher are continuing their partnership program with the Swisher Growth Cohort for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs designed to educate and support innovators and entrepreneurs from all walks of life.

The Swisher Growth Cohort is a free 8-week program designed for businesses operating for three (3) to seven (7) years or have a minimum of $20,000 in annual revenue. The top pitch winners are awarded cash prizes at the conclusion of the program and all participants receive business knowledge and a growth plan for their present or future business.

“Swisher is very proud to continue this two (2) year partnership with UNF in support of our underrepresented business owners.  This cohort closely aligns with our company’s core values as well as our unwavering commitment to our community”, said Jacinta Carter, EVP Human Resources, People and Culture.  “As a family-owned business of more than 160 years, we truly understand the importance of providing the necessary skills and experience to our business leaders.  Those resources create a stronger and more sustainable economic future for all”.

The participants will work with the CEI and resources to improve their business knowledge and growth plans through engaging workshops, speaker events and hands-on mentoring. Essential business topics of this program include growth management, distribution channels, market segmenting, financial forecasting, profit management, designing and implementing a growth plan, KPIs, methods for raising growth capital, and pitch prep.

Applications for the cohort open on Monday, July 11 and close on Sunday, Aug. 7. An information session will take place at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 3 and the official Swisher Growth Cohort classes begin Wednesday, Aug. 22.

More information on CEI and applications for the Swisher Growth Cohort for underrepresented entrepreneurs can be found via the website.