The Entrepreneurship Center enables entrepreneurs to take advantage of new business opportunities and qualify for financing that will put them on the path towards high-level business growth through the application of proper management skills. Entrepreneurs who qualify for the program will receive individualized and group management assistance designed to increase their business acumen and ability to operate their businesses profitably, increase their market share, and offer living wage employment opportunities to area residents.

The Urban League of Greater Chattanooga marked the opening of The Entrepreneurship Center by announcing its first course offering.  SpringBoard is an eight-week business development course that outlines what it takes to start and run your own business. 

SpringBoard educational programs offer business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs an introduction to sources and uses of capital to finance the growth of their businesses. Employing the expertise of successful entrepreneurs, lenders and investors, the program provides attendees inside information about what is involved in raising capital to grow their businesses, what lenders and investors look for, and what resources are available in the community to assist businesses in preparing for, securing and employing appropriate sources of capital.

“This class is perfect for the man or woman who has always wanted to start a new business, but did not have the business tools or mentors available,” said Warren E. Logan, Jr., President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Chattanooga.  “Our goal is to encourage free enterprise, giving aspiring entrepreneurs the freedom to operate and compete in today’s marketplace.  We know that a free enterprise system can produce phenomenal results and Chattanooga is an encouraging climate for entrepreneurship.”

SpringBoard is supported by Brightbridge, Co-Lab and the National Urban League.

Enrollment for our second SpringBoard class begins on Tuesday, January, 10th. The tuition fee for the entire course is $300 and is available to the first ten qualified candidates who have completed the screening process as well as paid and turned in a completed application and resume. Due to our 30th Year Anniversary the Urban League is offering a 50% discount on the tuition fee so your cost will be $150. Applications and resumes are due by January 27th.

Click here for the application.

The first class begins on Tuesday, January 31st from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. and will meet once a week for eight weeks. Classes are held at the Urban League office, located at 730 M.L. King Blvd., Chattanooga, TN 37403.  A monetary award will be given  for the best business plan as well as for the best presentation.