Satya Rhodes-Conway Mayor at City of Madison | Facebook Website
Satya Rhodes-Conway Mayor at City of Madison | Facebook Website
Three dozen local businesses in Madison will benefit from the City of Madison's newly launched BizReady program, which offers free training, mentoring, and networking opportunities. The initiative is modeled after the MarketReady program created in 2017 to support future vendors of the Madison Public Market by providing essential business planning assistance.
The application period for BizReady was open from August 26 through September 13. The program is supported by $300,000 in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan, allocated to the Economic Development Division’s Small Business Equity Recovery (SBER) program since July 2021.
The Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP) and AFF Research LLC are responsible for running BizReady. They will provide a comprehensive package of resources designed to foster innovation and growth among aspiring entrepreneurs in Madison. Key components include peer-to-peer roundtables led by experienced facilitators, personalized one-on-one mentoring sessions, expert presentations offering industry insights, practical workshops on key concepts application, networking opportunities within a supportive community, and guidance on creating action plans for grant fund utilization.
Participants are required to submit monthly progress reports that will enable mentors to tailor their support effectively.
Among those accepted into the program are Zamora Roofing & Construction, Purple Door Pilates, SRG Health Labs, La'Karron Beauty Elements & Bouquet Bliss by Tia, Auntie M's Creations, The Smiling Coast Cuisine, MHS Professional Services, LadyDi Production, Ardorposh, In And Out Pro Cleaners, Pdice Entertainment, Tiba's Blends; Angele Risk Management Consulting; Afghan Cuisine; Brazil Bliss; Pure Wellness Chiropractic; West Therapeutic; Media 22; Special Events by Anita; JG's Roadside Assistance; Holy Godz; Cooper Ridge Dog Training; TruXteriors Siding & Contractors; Little Light Solutions; Leon's Cleaning Services; The Beauty Spot Beauty Bar; After Hours Taqueria; JNJ Gifts and More; Rock N Glam Salon; bernie & zuzu; Remote ESL: Wright Care: Jazdup Artistry & Co.; The Mending Tree: Svidusky Creative: Reese Soul Food & Catering.
A total of 116 applications were reviewed with 43 applicants selected for interviews. Those not interviewed were either outside the City of Madison boundary or did not meet small business criteria.
Orientation for participants begins on October 23rd. Further information about programs available for local business owners can be found on the City of Madison’s Office of Business Resources website.
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