In an effort to support its residents in today’s uncertain economy, the City of Hollywood’s Office of Communications, Marketing & Economic Development (CMED) announces its 2nd FastTrac® Start-Up Program, designed to guide aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs on the path to success during these challenging times due to COVID-19. The free program will run from June through August and will be held virtually. Click here to register for the Informational Webinar on Thursday, May 7, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
As a Kauffman FastTrac® affiliate, the City hosts the FastTrac® Start-Up Program to help entrepreneurs refine their business concept, identify the components of a strong business plan, and access the appropriate resources for launch. At the end of the course, completed business plans will be evaluated and the top three may be eligible to compete for seed money grants. All participants will receive a certificate of completion.
“This summer’s course follows our 1st FastTrac® Start-Up Program held this past fall, which successfully graduated 17 entrepreneurs,” said CMED Director, Raelin Storey. “We are proud to present programs that support the development and growth of businesses in the City of Hollywood, particularly during this difficult and disruptive time in our economy.” Watch this video to see what previous graduates have to say about their experience.
Eligibility criteria for the FastTrac® Start-Up Program includes:
- A well thought-out idea for a new business that can be built to last
- Two years of work experience
- Access to a computer to participate in the virtual courses and complete assignments
- Conducted some market research on business idea
- Commitment to participate in all sessions (approximately 30 classroom hours) and complete prep work (approximately 15-20 hours per week)
Interested participants must submit a complete application online during the application period beginning May 7 through May 21 for this competitive process. All FastTrac® Start-Up Program sessions will be held through WebEx virtual meetings for accepted applicants from June 2, 2020 through September 10, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The FastTrac® Start-Up Program is free and open only to Hollywood residents. Space is limited. For more information, contact the City of Hollywood at 954-921-3620 or email us.