elevateMN

In this episode of "Hi Everybody!", Sarah Swedberg, one of the program managers for Elevate, is joined by Scott Marquardt from Southwest Initiative Foundation, a key champion for Elevate CBA (Community Business Academy). Together, they dive into the heartwarming origin story of Elevate, its significance in rural Minnesota, and its impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Sarah and Scott reminisce about the inception of Elevate, highlighting the journey from its conceptualization to its implementation. Scott shares insights into the mission of Southwest Initiative Foundation and how Elevate aligns perfectly with their vision of empowering entrepreneurs in rural communities. They discuss the unique challenges faced by rural entrepreneurs and the need for tailored support systems like Elevate to bridge the gap.

The conversation delves into the essence of Elevate's curriculum, emphasizing its holistic approach to entrepreneurship education. Scott emphasizes the importance of nurturing diverse entrepreneurial dreams and creating a supportive ecosystem where every dream is valued. They reflect on Elevate's role in fostering confidence and resilience among participants, ultimately transforming their entrepreneurial aspirations into reality.

Sarah and Scott also explore the interconnectedness of rural and urban entrepreneurship, highlighting the valuable lessons both communities can learn from each other. They celebrate the camaraderie and collaboration fostered within Elevate's community, where entrepreneurs uplift and inspire each other to succeed.

Throughout the episode, Sarah and Scott underscore the significance of trust, community, and cultural competence in the Elevate experience. They emphasize that Elevate is more than just a program—it's a movement that empowers individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams while building lasting relationships and trust within their communities.

Join Sarah and Scott as they share inspiring stories, insights, and lessons from the transformative journey of Elevate CBA. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a community supporter, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the power of education, community, and trust in driving rural entrepreneurship forward.

Elevate Program: To learn more about or participate in the Elevate Program please head to elevatesba.com!

SWIF: To learn more about or support the Southwest Initiative Foundation please head to https://swifoundation.org!

🎙️ elevateMN Podcast 🎙️Ep. 0 - the intro!

What is Elevate? 🎙️

Elevate provides business education and coaching specifically tailored to underserved minority entrepreneurs, with the guiding objective of creating economic opportunity for all businesses or residents of, or near, Kandiyohi County, MN. The program offers hands-on training in business planning and management. Elevate allows new or growing businesses to engage with established community members and leaders and build a network of support and accountability.

Who are Sarah and Samantha? 🗣️

Sarah, while working for Kandiyohi County Economic Development, helped launch the Elevate program in collaboration with the Southwest Initiative Foundation.  She also serves as one of the program coordinators!  Samantha is an Elevate Alumn who has started multiple businesses in the area.  She now serves as an instructor and mentor for current Elevate students!

What will we learn from the elevateMN Podcast? 📚

Each episode delves into the personal and professional experiences of these ambitious individuals, offering listeners a glimpse into the challenges they've overcome and the triumphs they've achieved. The podcast serves as a platform to celebrate the diversity of entrepreneurial endeavors within the local community while providing valuable insights, lessons, and motivation for aspiring business leaders. Whether discussing innovative startups, strategic business decisions, or the transformative impact of the Elevate Entrepreneur Launch Program, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance on the path to entrepreneurial success.

Elevate Program: To learn more about or participate in the Elevate Program please head to elevatesba.com!

SWIF: To learn more about or support the Southwest Initiative Foundation please head to https://swifoundation.org!