Westchester Office of Economic Development accepts applications for those looking to start a new business or non-profit organization
White Plains
The Westchester County Office of Economic Development announced today that Launch1000, an innovative, self-paced, fully remote program designed to turn concepts and ideas into business plans and startups, will begin accepting applications for its next cohort in mid-January. Westchester County residents who are interested in participating in this year’s program are encouraged to join the list today to be notified when the application period opens.
“Launch1000 has become a vital resource for Westchester County residents looking to start a new business or non-profit organization. In addition to first-class education and skills development, it welcomes participants into a diverse community of people who become collaborators, strategic partners, referral sources, and a strong mutual support system,” said the executive of the George Latimer County.
Born out of a global pandemic, Launch1000 offers Westchester County residents the opportunity to gain critical business insights, connect with mentors, and help their idea gain momentum. Since its inception, Launch1000 has supported the start of 367 startups and nonprofits.
The program is led by entrepreneurial expert Pam Hoelzle, who has mentored tens of thousands of early-stage entrepreneurs. Launch1000 requires a commitment of 7-10 hours per week and is designed for individuals who can commit to consistently working on their idea for the next 6-10 months, starting in March.
A recent economic analysis of the Launch1000 program, conducted by Camoin Associates, found that 2022 program graduates alone will create 296 jobs and generate $16 million in profit. Every dollar the County invested in the program in 2022 should generate a return of more than $15.00.
Westchester County Economic Development Director Bridget Gibbons said, “The Launch1000 program is an investment to help residents develop sustainable businesses and non-profit organizations. By providing a step-by-step roadmap for turning your concept into a new business, and eliminating risk, we are able to give residents who have aspired to start their own business an opportunity they might not have otherwise had to create a new pipeline. from income”.
Westchester County Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Deborah Novick said: “The Launch1000 program is proof that all it takes is an idea to get started on the path to becoming your own boss and launching a new company. To date, we have welcomed 367 new businesses and nonprofits in Westchester County with the support of this innovative program. Many of these businesses are already generating income and contributing to the economic fabric of their community.”
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- Whether an individual is just exploring an idea, hoping to create a pathway to working from home, aspiring to build a business to support and improve their local community, or already has a concrete business concept, Launch1000 provides the tools to test ideas. and move on.
- It is also designed to support existing entrepreneurs looking to jumpstart an existing business.
- As participants progress through the phases of the program, they receive feedback and guidance from experienced business owners, as well as introductions to relevant organizations and individuals within the Westchester business community.
- The program is flexible and can be adapted to the participant’s schedule and the desired pace of work.
- It is open to residents of any part of the county.
- To ensure that a lack of technology does not prevent anyone from applying to the program, the Westchester County Office of Economic Development will provide laptop computers to residents who need them.
- Launch1000 requires a commitment of 7-10 hours per week and is designed for individuals who can commit to consistently working on their idea for the next 6-10 months, starting in March.
- visit: westchestercatalyst.com/launch1000
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Posted on February 02, 2023
