Entrepreneur Connection

Providing resources and education to help entrepreneurs start or expand a small business.

Entrepreneur Connection at BakerRipley was created in 2015 to provide education, resources, and connection to capital for anyone who is an aspiring entrepreneur or current business owner. The program offers classes, business coaching, networking events, and a host of other services to help small businesses launch, grow, and thrive.

Business Coaching

BakerRipley offers free one-on-one business coaching in English and Spanish so you can work with expert small business coaches. Depending on your needs, coaches can work with you to:

  • Develop a Business Plan

  • Review Your Finances

  • Identify Capital Partners

  • Apply For a Loan

  • Launch a Business

  • Create New Jobs

  • Increase Revenue

  • Strategize Marketing

  • AND MORE

Entrepreneur Academy

The Acosta Entrepreneur Academy at BakerRipley offers in-depth, multi-week classes that provide a solid foundation for starting or growing a business. Classes are taught in English and Spanish and feature peer-to-peer learning and experienced instructors.

LAUNCH CLASS

Interested and motivated entrepreneurs with a clear business idea may join the LAUNCH class, an intensive learning course that provides entrepreneurs with the knowledge and information they need to launch or formalize a business in Houston. This class helps entrepreneurs build an action plan to guide their next steps for their business or idea.

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LAUNCH CLASS

GROW CLASS

A more intensive class, GROW is designed for entrepreneurs who completed the LAUNCH class and have been operating their business for at least six months (or one year if they did not take the LAUNCH class). Participants are highly motivated to grow their business. Once accepted, they join a cohort that receives an evidence-informed curriculum to develop business management and planning skills. They also create a action plan which can be used to seek investment, and as a roadmap for future business activities.

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GROW CLASS

Events

Workshops, Events, and Other Resources

Throughout the year, BakerRipley’s Entrepreneur Connection offers workshops on a variety of topics such as personal finance, business management, and much more. Networking events also help you connect to others in the business community and exchange ideas. Visit our Event Calendar to learn more.

The Entrepreneur’s Table

Navigating Challenges and Embracing Growth for Restaurants and Food Vendors

BakerRipley developed a food industry program with detailed classes tailored to the needs of restaurant owners and other food industry professionals. Over time, the program has evolved to focus on building resilience within the industry.

In-depth, multi-week classes equip business owners with strategies for navigating challenges and disruptions. Participants create strategic plans to prepare for emergencies such as hurricanes, freezes, or other unforeseen events. Additionally, the course emphasizes the importance of incorporating healthy recipes and practices to promote customer well-being.

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready

A free, comprehensive resource designed to help entrepreneurs like you succeed

With this powerful platform, you’ll have access to:

  • Expert-Led Courses

    Learn everything you need to know about running and scaling your small business.

  • 1:1 Mentorship

    Get personalized guidance from experienced business mentors.

  • $10K Grants

    Complete the required courses and become eligible to apply for exclusive grants to fuel your business growth.

  • Sign Up Now!

    Register for the English course and start your learning journey today!

  • Sign Up Now!

    Register for the Spanish course and start your learning journey today!

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