Business Innovation

Building Thriving Businesses and Communities

What is the NHTI Business Innovation Initiative?

The NHTI Business Innovation Initiative empowers underserved entrepreneurs—including BIPOC, women, LGBTQ+, and small business owners—by providing the mentorship, training, and resources essential for growth and sustainability. This initiative tackles challenges like limited technical skills, financial literacy, and capital access, helping entrepreneurs strengthen their business foundations and contribute to a resilient local economy.

CAUSE

Entrepreneurs face gaps in technical skills, financial literacy, and funding.

EFFECT

Often results in business failure, limited growth, and a lack of lasting impact.

ACTION

Hands-on training with access to funding pathways, we help entrepreneurs succeed, creating jobs and fueling local innovation.

The Business Ignite Programming

The Business Ignite Programming empowers entrepreneurs by providing essential business knowledge and hands-on training. This comprehensive program covers financial literacy, marketing, and strategic growth, ensuring participants build a solid foundation for long-term success.

Founders Circle Ignite with 100State | Fall 2024

In partnership with 100State, Founders Circle Ignite focuses on helping early-stage entrepreneurs refine their business strategies and accelerate growth. This program provides a collaborative space for tech startups and scalable businesses to gain insights from industry experts.

Expert-Led Workshops

Covering business strategy, product-market fit, and scalability.

Peer Collaboration

Group sessions where entrepreneurs share experiences and feedback.

Investor Pitch Preparation

Guidance on crafting compelling pitches for potential investors.

Benefits

→ Access to industry mentors with proven expertise
→ Opportunities for strategic partnerships and funding
→ A structured plan to scale businesses efficiently

Ideal For

New and existing business owners looking to strengthen their operational capabilities

Outcome

Graduates leave the program with a solid business plan, enhanced confidence, and an expanded network of supportive peers

The Business Ignite Programme | Spring 2025

An 11-week structured course designed for entrepreneurs who seek foundational knowledge to build and grow their businesses. This program offers essential training in financial literacy, branding, marketing, and soft skills, ensuring participants are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Financial Literacy Training

Participants learn to manage budgets, interpret financial statements, and create sustainable financial plans.

Branding and Marketing Workshops

Sessions dedicated to developing a strong brand identity and effective marketing strategies.

Soft Skills Development

Emphasis on leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.

Benefits

→ Actionable knowledge that can be immediately applied
→ Hands-on workshops with real-world business scenarios
→ Personalized mentorship to address individual business challenges

Ideal For

New and existing business owners looking to strengthen their operational capabilities

Outcome

Graduates leave the program with a solid business plan, enhanced confidence, and an expanded network of supportive peers

Shared Platform for Accelerating Resource & Knowledge – S.P.A.R.K.

S.P.A.R.K. fosters a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs share resources and insights. Through community-driven programs like workshops, project work nights, and networking events, participants gain support and innovative solutions to overcome challenges together.

Project Work Night

A semi-monthly event that provides entrepreneurs with a focused environment to work on business projects. With the support of peers and mentors, participants stay accountable and make meaningful progress.

Guided Check-Ins

Regular progress updates to keep participants on track

Mentor Feedback

Opportunities to receive constructive feedback from experienced professionals

Work Sprints

Dedicated time blocks to tackle specific business tasks

Benefits

→ Enhanced productivity through a structured work environment
→ Constructive peer-to-peer interaction for feedback and encouragement
→ Consistent progress with measurable outcomes

Ideal For

Entrepreneurs who need structure, accountability, and collaborative input for ongoing projects

Outcome

Increased project completion rates and overall business growth

NHTI Lunch and Learn Series

Offers a practical approach to business learning. These hands-on sessions engage participants through real-world business scenarios and group problem-solving exercises.

Interactive Workshops

Sessions that include case studies, role-playing, and real-time problem-solving

Collaborative Discussions

Group activities that foster idea sharing and collective learning

Industry-Specific Insights

Led by experts who bring in-depth knowledge of relevant business topics

Benefits

→ Immediate application of lessons learned to business operations
→ Strengthened problem-solving and decision-making skills
→ Opportunities to network and build lasting professional relationships

Ideal For

Business owners and entrepreneurs who prefer dynamic, hands-on learning experiences

Outcome

Participants leave with practical strategies and actionable solutions to enhance their business operations

Leaders Network

A monthly event series focused on fostering connections and facilitating lead exchanges among small business owners.

Networking Sessions

Opportunities to meet and build relationships with other entrepreneurs

Best Practice Sharing

Participants share insights on what has worked for their businesses

Lead Exchange Platform

A structured system to connect potential business opportunities

Benefits

→ Enhanced business development through new partnerships
→ Knowledge-sharing that leads to innovation and efficiency
→ A strong support network for long-term growth

Ideal For

Small business owners looking to expand their professional networks and business opportunities

Outcome

A more connected and collaborative entrepreneurial ecosystem

Networking Events and Workshops Offered by Partners

Partner-led events that complement NHTI’s core programming by providing additional learning and networking opportunities.

Industry-specific workshops

Panels featuring expert speakers

Informal networking opportunities

The Innovation Internship and Fellowship Program

Bridges academic learning with real-world business experience. Participants work alongside local businesses on impactful projects, gaining practical skills and valuable mentorship to prepare for future career success.

Hands-On Project Experience

Interns and fellows contribute directly to business projects that make a real impact

Leadership and Skill Development

Training focused on building leadership capabilities and enhancing expertise in finance and marketing

Personalized Mentorship

Regular guidance from experienced business leaders to support growth and career readiness

The NHTI Catalyst Lending Program

Supports underserved entrepreneurs by providing flexible microloans and financial mentorship. This initiative helps businesses overcome financial barriers, enabling growth and stability that contribute to local economic development.

Flexible Microloan Options

Accessible, low-interest financing to support business expansion, staffing, and equipment needs

Financial Mentoring and Guidance

Ongoing mentorship to help participants manage funds effectively and build financial sustainability

Workshops for Financial Growth

Training sessions aimed at enhancing financial knowledge and establishing a solid financial foundation