Applications are now closed!
In the Impact Accelerator, Propeller works with entrepreneurs to catalyze transformational growth. Propeller connects entrepreneurs with the contract opportunities, markets, and customers to put their businesses on the fast track for growth.
Ventures begin their Impact Accelerator experience by working with experienced, dedicated mentors to set ambitious yet achievable goals for growth and long-term sustainability, tailored to the needs of your business. Each venture receives support from subject matter experts to provide project assistance and access to entrepreneurial curriculum to remove speed bumps to growth.
Examples of how ventures leveraged program resources include:
- A consumer packaged goods company that increased revenue by acquisition of 10 new vendor accounts via streamlined communications and marketing strategy
- An early childhood education center that increased enrollment from 24 to 43 children and grew from 6 to 10 employees by developing and implementing a marketing plan with the guidance of their Lead Mentor
- A landscape construction and maintenance firm that grew revenues by $2,500 per month by utilizing their Lead Mentor’s extensive network to identify new contracts
Entrepreneurs graduate with the following tools, resources and experiences:
- 12 + hours of individualized strategy sessions with a dedicated Lead Mentor
- 12+ hours of business development curriculum
- Approximately 25 hours to work with consultants from Propeller’s Subject Matter Expert directory on short-term projects related to business development
- A detailed work plan laying out revenue, capital, and social/environmental impact goals
- Coaching to embed racial equity, social and environmental impact processes into business operations
- Introductions to key community stakeholders
- Free coworking office space at Propeller’s facility.
- Membership in a cohort of 20 like-minded entrepreneurs, as well as a network of over 300 alumni
Propeller’s Impact Accelerator is sponsored by the Clif Family Foundation, Capital One, Nasdaq, RosaMary Foundation, WK Kellogg Foundation, Baptist Community Ministries.
For additional information, view our Program Overview or our FAQ.
Program Dates: June 29 - November 15, 2024
Application Deadline: May 27, 2024
Focus Areas
Community Economic Development
In community economic development, Propeller’s Impact Accelerator supports BIPOC entrepreneurs operating brick and mortar establishments along the Broad Street corridor, in New Orleans East, and in Central City seeking to grow their revenues and staff.
Education
In education, Propeller’s Impact Accelerator supports entrepreneurs working in the service provision or delivery of early childhood education and care from birth to eight years of age.
Food
In food, Propeller’s Impact Accelerator supports entrepreneurs who have an existing consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand with an emphasis on sustainable, healthy, and affordable products made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Health
In health, Propeller’s Impact Accelerator supports entrepreneurs who provide direct health and wellness services, including clinical care, and services that address the social and physical determinants of health in the built environment and community context domains. Propeller prioritizes entrepreneurs who serve a BIPOC client base.
Water
In water, Propeller’s Impact Accelerator focuses on supporting entrepreneurs working in the fields of green infrastructure, urban stormwater management, native plants cultivation, and coastal restoration.
The biggest thing I think I learned during the Propeller program was more that it takes a real team to be successful. Growing up, I always played team sports, so I understand the team concept. But, finding the right players to be part of your team is pivotal. You can’t just think you can do it all yourself. You really have to trust other peoples’ judgement and those that have been there before you who can guide you through this process. I forever feel like Propeller is family, and I look forward to continuing to work together.
Joel Holton
J.B. Holton and Associates (Impact Accelerator 2021)