Applications are now open for the 2020 SEA Change cohort. The social enterprise accelerator program helps socially-conscious businesses develop their models for measurable social change.
The program consists of 14 educational sessions led by subject matter experts and culminates in a pitch event with top teams pitching for funding and in-kind services. Teams will also be matched with a mentor to support them throughout the program and will be expected to complete weekly homework assignments.
Typically held in-person, the SEA Change program might look a little different this year. Organizers say they are committed to following social distancing guidelines as outlined by Governor Mike DeWine, so the 2020 Signature Cohort may start with online meetings and class sessions.Â
The accelerator kicks off on Wednesday, June 10 with weekly classes through Wednesday, September 16.
Despite the pandemic, organizers Lauren Edwards and Sarah Wharmby felt it was still important to host the accelerator.
“As the threat of COVID-19 continues to impact our way of life, Social Enterprises have stepped in to fill the gaps and do as much good as is possible,” Edwards and Wharmby said. “They are donating their valuable time and services, and reaching out to support the ecosystem and community at large. Their example made our decision easy: we believe it is in the best interests of OUR Social Enterprise community to host the SEA Change Signature Cohort as regularly scheduled this spring and summer.”
The deadline to apply is Monday, May 18. Applicants will be notified if they are selected for the cohort by Wednesday, May 27. The accelerator begins on Monday, June 10.
Entrepreneurs looking to support the program can also apply to be a facilitator or a mentor for SEA Change. Facilitators will facilitate discussion and hands-on activities around a certain subject. Mentors are generalists who will support one to two teams throughout the duration of the program. More information on volunteering can be found here.
For more information and to apply, visit seachng.org.