M&T Bank, NextCorps Launch Scholarship Initiative for Entrepreneurs
M&T Bank and NextCorps have launched a scholarship initiative for entrepreneurs, providing free business mentoring, education, and resources to launch tech-oriented companies. The goal is to help more individuals advance from having an idea to launching an early-stage company, particularly those who may not otherwise have the means to take the leap and pursue their dreams.
During the 12 months of incubation services, NextCorps startup scholarship recipients will receive structured coaching from an Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) who will advise on market analysis, prototype development, capitalization strategy, and business plan development. They’ll have access to NextCorps’ facilities, including its prototyping lab, digital media studio, and meeting and work spaces, as well as opportunities to network and learn from a community of 70+ startups in the incubator. At the end of the scholarship, recipients will have completed a Lean Canvas (a single-page business model) in collaboration with mentors and EIRs.
Scholarship applications are being accepted now through April 5, 2024. To be eligible for the scholarship, individuals must be located in the nine-county Rochester region and not have participated previously in NextCorps’ incubation services. M&T and NextCorps are looking for coachable individuals with an idea for a scalable, tech-enabled product or service. Preference will be given to applicants in or serving an under-represented community, including founders who are women, minorities, veterans, those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds, and those with financial need. For more information about how to apply, please see here.