EforAll Helps Minority Startups Take Off
Small businesses make up the vast majority of enterprises in the U.S., yet minority business owners represent only 29% percent of that population. Entrepreneurship for All (aka EforAll) wants to change that.
EforAll programs help underrepresented people in the community start or grow their business through a business accelerator program and pitch contest.
“We try to eliminate the barriers that exist for everyday people who have an idea,” said Tessa Murphy-Romboletti, executive director for the Holyoke location. “We really try to represent the community that we’re in and make sure that folks who aren’t typically included in economic development efforts are given a seat at the table.”
Tessa Murphy-Romboletti, Executive Director of Holyoke EforAll
The training programs, offered in English and Spanish, are free to the community. Whether it’s because people need another source of income to sustain themselves or have changed the way they do business, Murphy-Romboletti has seen an increase in the need for services.
“It’s about empowering these individuals not to be just be successful business owners, but to be really strong and smart leaders in their community.”
Eight to ten entrepreneurs are selected to be part of the business accelerator program which runs twice a year. One program is conducted in English and another running concurrently is in Spanish. It’s a competitive and rigorous application process seeking those who can embrace criticism and are willing to learn. The year-long program connects participants with education, mentors and even seed funding to help get their ideas off the ground.
Business acceleration programs from EforAll help entrepreneurs discover their dream
For those who have an existing business that they want to adapt or just have a new business concept, EforAll hosts periodic pitch contest free and open to anyone to apply.
“For a lot of people it’s their first time sharing their idea and getting feedback,” Murphy-Romboletti said. “It’s a really good first step.”
Beyond providing programs for entrepreneurs, EforAll has memberships for its co-working space. The welcoming and inclusive area lends itself to a professional environment so that workers can have a centralized location to meet with clients, utilize shared resources and register their business at an address that isn’t their personal home. The space can be used by corporate individuals looking for a shared office space or micro business owners.
The EforAll program has locations in Massachusetts, Colorado and Arkansas. The Holyoke location has only been open for a few years, but a similar program had already been running through the local Chamber of Commerce. The transition to a bigger model and resources enhanced what they were able to offer and gave it longevity.
Since 2013 EforAll has helped to launch more than 500 startups. Despite the enormous hurdles entrepreneurial businesses faced in 2020, Murphy-Romboletti said that many are thriving. A food truck, a baker and an asphalt paver are among the many who have found recent success. Right now it’s helping these groups succeed that can ultimately help everyone.
Nicole Ortiz, Owner Crave Food Truck and Alex Morse, Former Mayor of Holyoke at Crave’s Ribbon Cutting
“We really believe that entrepreneurship and small business can help rebuild the economy,” said Murphy-Romboletti.
For those interested in either program, applications are being accepted now. Register for the business accelerator program at https://eforall.org/programs/holyoke-summer-2021-accelerator/ with a May 19 deadline.
Some tips from Murphy-Romboletti for anyone interested in pitching their idea:
“Practice makes perfect.” Make sure you’re prepared and are completely comfortable and ready to own the presentation.
“Utilize resources out there.” Even if you’re not selected for an in-person pitch, use the feedback and attend the free workshops to help for next time.
“Ignore doubts and take the first step to dive in.” It’s easy to be intimidated by that voice in your head; don’t let stop you from taking a chance.