Latest news with #AcceleratorProgram
Business Journals
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Journals
How EO Baltimore helped these Maryland entrepreneurs find success
Entrepreneurship is a journey paved by resilience, ingenuity, grit, hustle, and — if you are a member of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) — a supportive community. In Maryland, EO is a cornerstone for business owners, offering a network for learning and personal/professional growth. Today, we delve into the stories of four inspiring entrepreneurs who not only built successful businesses but also contribute significantly to Maryland's entrepreneurial landscape. Brian Taylor, CEO of Goldiata, a digital marketing agency in Baltimore, helps businesses, organizations, and schools increase reach and visibility using online marketing. Goldiata blossomed into a rapidly growing agency, with a massive goal of giving back by donating a quarter of a million dollars by 2028. expand Brian Taylor, CEO of Goldiata 'Early in my entrepreneurial journey, I met an EO member. They encouraged me to check out the EO Accelerator (EOA) program. At the time, I wasn't sure what that would mean for me. But as it turns out, that recommendation changed everything,' Taylor says. In EOA, Taylor didn't just learn how to run a business — he learned how to lead one. 'The operational components — cash flow, systems, and people management — were like puzzle pieces scattered on the table, and I didn't know how to fit them together. EOA gave me the tools to build that foundation. It was practical, actionable knowledge.' Goldiata reached $1 million in revenue within its first year in the EOA program. That success allowed Taylor to graduate to EO, and 'that opened up a world I could never have imagined,' he says. Taylor has also been recognized by the Maryland Small Business Association as a top Young Entrepreneur. Nick Modha is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Baltimore based Monkey in the Metal, a provider of premier solid wood and metal fabrication services. The company specializes in architectural millwork, custom furniture, signage, and artwork for multi-family residential, hospitality, retail, and restaurant spaces. Architects, interior designers, and national level general contractors rely on the company for typical decorative elements, as well as the unusual items. expand Nick Modha, founder, Monkey in the Metal Modha also joined EO through its Accelerator Program. 'EO changed everything for me. There's something powerful about being part of a community where everyone genuinely wants to improve — not just in business, but all aspects of life — and actually help each other along that journey. If you're an entrepreneur feeling isolated, this community is for you,' he says. Shannon Roberts is CEO of Brand Builders, an event marketing and staffing firm, specializing in the wine, spirits and cannabis industries. Roberts didn't plan to be an entrepreneur, but in her 2009 exit interview from Jagermeister, she explained the reason for her resignation: The company had not adopted a single suggestion she offered about streamlining/modernizing operations, so she started her own company and used those ideas as the foundation for her operational structure. expand Shannon Roberts, CEO, Brand Builders Brand Builders conducts live events, like store tastings and festivals, so when Covid canceled her entire event schedule, Roberts relied on her EO Community for advice and support. 'The EO network sprang into action, delivering an abundance of impactful and relevant content virtually. My forum basically prevented me from bankrupting myself, and because of EO, I was able rebuild the company,' she says. In 2020, Roberts took her love of entrepreneurism a step further and became an Entrepreneurial Operating System Implementer. 'The EOS work I do is truly rewarding and scratches my problem-solving itch while I help my clients' businesses become more manageable, more scalable, and more profitable,' she says. Jim Schaefer, founder and president of Schaefer Homes, a construction company that builds new homes in Maryland and Delaware. Since 2016, Schaefer Homes has created attractive, efficient, and attainable homes. Schaefer recalls a financial crisis in 2022, which led him to leveraging his waterman's license and selling crabs roadside in an effort to keep the company and his family afloat. expand Jim Schaefer, founder and president, Schaefer Homes 'Since joining EO in 2023, the impact has been transformative. My forum helped me realize that personal growth was key to my business success, showing me the only person holding me back was me. With peer support, I've achieved measurable growth: my revenue went from $2.5 million in 2022 to $7.9 million in 2023, with projections of $25 million for 2025. But the numbers tell only part of the story. The insights I've gained have stabilized my mental state, allowing me to tackle challenges with focus and resilience. The relationships I've built with other members continue to inspire and motivate me,' Schaefer says. To become a member of EO, you must own a business that's generating at least $1 million in annual revenue or join our Accelerator Program, which accepts entrepreneurs whose businesses range from $250,000 to $1 million in revenue and are looking to grow to a million within two to four years.
IOL News
5 days ago
- Automotive
- IOL News
Bolt Invests over R400 000 to support emerging mobility entrepreneurs in SA
Launched in December 2024 in partnership with business academy Pranary, the program attracted over 578 applications nationwide, with Gauteng submitting the highest number. Image: Supplied. E-hailing company Bolt said it concluded its first Accelerator Program in South Africa, awarding €20,000 (over R400 000) in funding to ten participants. Bolt said that the initiative marked a significant step in the company's efforts to support entrepreneurial growth within its driver and courier community. Launched in December 2024 in partnership with business academy Pranary, the program attracted over 578 applications nationwide, with Gauteng submitting the highest number. Women made up 7% of the applicant pool. "When we empower everyday entrepreneurs with the tools to build, we don't just ignite businesses, we transform communities and shape the future of Africa's mobility. True innovation thrives in an ecosystem where ideas are nurtured, collaboration is championed, and every voice has a seat at the table. At Bolt, we're building more than a platform, we are cultivating a movement," said Lerato Motsoeneng, Bolt's Senior General Manager for South Africa. After a rigorous selection process, 120 drivers and couriers were chosen to join the Bolt Academy, where they received training in key areas such as market analysis, value proposition design, customer validation, and basic financial modelling. Twenty participants advanced to the final phase, where they worked closely with industry experts and mentors to refine their ideas. Their journey culminated in a live pitch event, with a panel evaluating their concepts on innovation, feasibility, and community impact. Each of the ten selected finalists received €2000 (over R40,000) in seed funding and will participate in six weeks of additional mentorship to further develop their ventures. At the awards event, three individuals received special recognition for their groundbreaking contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship. The awards highlighted excellence across three key categories: Kamogelo Modise received the Most Innovative Idea award for Lupa Township Delivery A sustainable, cost-effective, zero-emission bicycle delivery network designed to bridge the delivery gap in township communities through a community-driven model. Vutivi Shivambu was awarded the Most Scalable Idea for Liftsearch A ride-sharing platform that connects verified passengers with verified drivers, offering safe, affordable, and convenient long-distance travel to and from rural villages. Shannon Adams won the Best Pitch award for platform that links tourists with vetted drivers who also act as tour guides, enhancing travel experiences with local insights and safe transportation. Sandras Phiri, CEO of Pranary, emphasised the importance of practical application. 'These participants didn't just sit through lectures, they built real businesses,' he said. 'Our mentorship approach brought in active founders and investors to guide them in creating ventures that are not only viable but needed. These entrepreneurs are addressing genuine challenges in the transport space.' The Gauteng Department of Economics (GDED) is Bolt's strategic partner in creating a vibrant economy in Gauteng. Mpho Nawa, the acting Head of Department at GDED, lauded the Accelerator Program as a game-changer and said it was an example of initiative that impact our communities. 'The initiative signifies our commitment to playing a leading role in supporting initiatives that empower communities and create rising stars. This partnership would help with job creation and unlock further economic growth and diversification in townships, leading to more investment from various sectors. This will help us develop a vibrant and competitive economy in the townships, especially in the digital sector. As a Government that cares we recognise the pivotal role that innovation plays in uniting our country. This partnership with Bolt marks a significant step in supporting township businesses," Nawa said. The Accelerator Program reflects Bolt's broader aim to empower its driver and courier community with opportunities beyond the ride, helping them become active contributors to the country's evolving mobility landscape.
Reuters
13-05-2025
- Business
- Reuters
NFL cancels accelerator program, aims to revamp for May 2026
May 13 - The NFL has canceled its accelerator program, designed to promote diversity hiring practices for head coaches and front office positions, citing a need for improvements. The next accelerator event, which connects individuals of diverse backgrounds with owners and team executives, was scheduled to take place next week in Minnesota. According to reports, league officials determined that the program needed a revamp to improve effectiveness. "Every offseason, we take a step back to reflect on the positives and areas for improvement of our programs and assess ways to make them more impactful," Dasha Smith, NFL executive vice president and chief administrative officer, said in a statement. "This year, we assessed and identified additional opportunities with the Accelerator -- including combining the coaching and front office programs to ensure the Accelerator continues to be as impactful as possible." Smith noted that the next accelerator event would take place in May 2026, which "will allow us to reimagine the program, reflecting on the feedback and engaging with stakeholders so we can ensure a successful program in the future." League officials emphasized that the cancellation does not mean it will end the NFL's commitment to diversity. Rather, it allows the league to strengthen its efforts to ensure that everyone receives fair opportunities. "We're steadfast in our commitment to strengthen our talent pipeline and create an environment that reflects the diversity of our fan base," Smith said. "The NFL strives to be a unifying force, and we are confident the next evolution of our efforts will take us one step closer to that goal." The NFL began holding accelerator events at its spring meetings starting in 2022 after league officials perceived that owners were passing over highly qualified individuals of color for vacant positions. The NFL also has the Rooney Rule, which requires teams to interview minorities for open general manager, head coaching and coordinator positions. So far, however, just two individuals have landed jobs as a result of the accelerator program: Ran Carthon (Tennessee Titans general manager, fired in 2024) and Aaron Glenn (current New York Jets head coach). --Field Level Media
Yahoo
11-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BNB Plunges 11.6% Before Staging Massive Recovery Amid Trump Tariff Concerns
The cryptocurrency market is navigating turbulent waters as geopolitical tensions and trade policies reshape investor sentiment. BNB's recent price action, featuring a 13.2% trading range, highlights the heightened volatility affecting digital assets. Technical analysis reveals key support around $540-$545 and resistance at $565-$570, with trading volumes spiking during both selloffs and recovery phases, according to CoinDesk Research's technical analysis data. The implementation of new tariffs under President Trump's administration has created a ripple effect across financial markets. Initially, bitcoin showed a negative correlation with equities as trade war rhetoric emerged, but this relationship shifted as risk-off sentiment took hold. According to Binance Research, "Should macro conditions stabilize, new narratives take hold, or crypto reassert its role as a long-term hedge – renewed growth could follow." Meanwhile, BNB Chain continues to expand its ecosystem, recently announcing 16 early-stage projects selected for Season 9 of its Most Valuable Builder Accelerator Program. This initiative aims to support Web3 builders with resources needed to thrive within the BNB Chain ecosystem, aligning with its mission to onboard the next billion Web3 users. BNB experienced significant price turbulence, with an 11.6% drop from $589.78 to $521.16 before recovering to $585.61. The overall trading range of $68.62 (13.2%) demonstrates exceptional volatility in recent sessions. Key support established around $540-$545 with resistance at $565-$570. Volume analysis shows intense selling pressure during the initial decline, followed by substantial accumulation during recovery. April 9th surge featured volumes exceeding 199,000 units, indicating strong buying interest. The formation of a bullish channel since April 7th suggests potential continued upward momentum. In the last 100 minutes of trading, BNB declined 0.5% from $578.33 to $575.41. A descending channel formed with significant selling pressure emerging around 11:03. The $575.00-$575.50 zone has established itself as a critical support area with multiple tests. Disclaimer: This article was generated with AI tools and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and adherence to our standards. For more information, see CoinDesk's full AI Policy. This article may include information from external sources, which are listed below when applicable. External References: Crypto Daily, "Solana Price Prediction in April: Binance Coin Latest News and Everything You Need to Know About Viral Altcoin Remittix," published April 3, 2025. Coinotag News, "Is BNB Preparing for a Q2 Breakout Amid Strong On-Chain Metrics and Rising Demand?" published April 9, 2025. AMBCrypto, "Is BNB the Breakout Altcoin of Q2? Why Bitcoin Investors Think So!" published April 9, 2025.AMBCrypto+1AMBCrypto+1 Crypto Daily, "Solana, Binance Coin (BNB) or Lightchain AI? Why Top Crypto Investors Are Picking Lightchain AI Over These Two Well-Known Assets," published April 5, 2025.Crypto Daily BitcoinWorld, "Bitcoin Price: Sudden Plunge Shocks Crypto Market as BTC Dips After Touching $79,472 Amid Rising Volatility," published April 8, 2025.Bitcoin World
Associated Press
12-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Peachscore Welcomes 87 Innovative Startups to Data-driven Accelerator Program
IRVINE, Calif., March 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Peachscore announced today that 87 startups across 23 industries were selected to join Cohorts 14 and 15 of its Data-Driven Accelerator Program. The companies represent diverse sectors including healthcare, information technology, biotechnology, and sustainable energy. Peachscore's Website The selected startups will receive access to Peachscore's proprietary data driven acceleration platform, expert mentorship, and tailored resources designed to accelerate their growth trajectory. 'This cohort brings together promising early-stage companies, each tackling critical challenges in their industries with innovation and scalability in mind,' said Peyman Shahmirzadi, Co- founder & COO at Peachscore. The accelerator program equips founders with actionable insights and hands-on support. Participants gain the expertise, resources, and connections needed to refine their offerings, scale efficiently, and secure funding. The full roster of companies within these cohorts spans industries including: Peachscore's data-driven approach leverages analytics to identify specific growth opportunities for each participant, with programming tailored to their development stage and market position. For more information about the accelerator program, visit . About Peachscore Peachscore is a data-driven accelerator platform that leverages data intelligence, automation, and human expertise to empower early-stage companies globally at scale. The program runs 12 cohorts annually, each featuring a 12-week accelerator experience that culminates in a graduation certificate endorsed by global partners, demo day, and a full year of ongoing support from time of enrollment. Founders gain access to AI-driven recommendations, benchmarking insights, and a $2M perks catalog from top service providers. Additionally, they benefit from over 500 hours of office hours for mentorship, detailed pitch deck reviews and potential connections with investors for funding, corporations for customer acquisition, and government agencies for expansion opportunities. Email: Website:
