Program Overview: The Founder Circle Ignite, Powered by The Network for Health, Technology, and Innovation (NHTI) in partnership with 100State, is designed to provide comprehensive business development support for entrepreneurs. The program has a validated structure, focusing on enhancing key areas of business growth through collaboration with partners to improve content delivery and operational efficiency.
Founders Circle – Ignite
Course Dates: March 4th – May 8th, 2025
Deadline to apply is February 25th
- BootCamp – Basic – Every Tuesday from 6pm to 8pm | Virtual (Zoom)
- BootCamp – Advanced – Every Thursday from 6pm to 8pm | 100State (17. S. Fairchild Street, Madison, WI 53703)
*There will be no program the week of March 17th, 2025
The Founders Circle Ignite program is an 11-week accelerator designed to give entrepreneurs the essential tools to launch, grow, and scale their businesses. Through a structured curriculum, hands-on mentorship, and a strong peer network, participants will refine their business strategy, strengthen customer engagement, and explore funding opportunities.
This Spring 2025 cohort is enhanced by a strategic partnership with Madison College, adding expert-led sessions and valuable educational resources to the experience.
💼 Who Should Apply?
✅ Lifestyle Business Owners – Entrepreneurs in industries like food service, cleaning, and beauty looking to grow sustainably.
✅ Scalable Business Owners – Founders aiming to expand into national markets and build investable ventures.
✅ Tech Startups – Entrepreneurs in HealthTech, FinTech, GreenTech, and EdTech preparing for long-term scalability.
📚 What You’ll Gain
💡 Business Development Skills – Master the Business Model Canvas, refine your customer profile, and build a go-to-market strategy.
💰 Financial & Legal Expertise – Learn about funding options, company structuring, and operational best practices.
📢 Marketing & Branding Insights – Develop your brand identity, craft engaging content, and optimize your digital presence.
🎤 Pitch & Sales Training – Gain confidence in pitching to investors, customers, and strategic partners.
🤝 Community & Accountability – Stay on track with bi-weekly check-ins and peer accountability sessions.
🔎 Curriculum Highlights
🚀 Core Business Fundamentals – From company registration to building an MVP and refining your business model.
🎙 Fireside Chats with Entrepreneurs – Real insights from seasoned founders sharing their journeys.
📊 Marketing & Customer Strategy – Identify your ideal customer profile and craft a winning go-to-market plan.
📈 Funding & Financial Planning – Explore loans, angel investors, and venture capital while managing business finances.
🎭 Emotional Intelligence & Mindset – Develop resilience, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial confidence.
🏆 Pitch Competitions & Graduation – Pitch at 100State, compete in the Madison College Pitch Challenge, and celebrate your journey at New Places, New Faces – Premier Pitch Night!
📅 Accountability & Check-In Sessions
Success is built on momentum, and our Accountability & Check-in Sessions help you stay on track:
📅 First 3 Months: Bi-weekly check-ins (second & third weeks).
📅 Following 3 Months: Monthly check-ins (second week).
These structured sessions provide a dedicated space for tracking progress, setting goals, and receiving peer support.
🌟 This is your chance to take your business to the next level. Apply by February 25, 2025 and ignite your entrepreneurial journey! 🔥
