Program provides free, 8-week workshop for entrepreneurs and covers the fundamentals of starting a business
Cross River, a technology-focused financial services organization and Banking-as-a-Service (“BaaS”) provider, together with Operation HOPE, a leading nonprofit focused on financial literacy and empowerment, today announced the first graduating class of its Entrepreneur Training Program (“ETP”).
“As a fast-growing financial technology company born and raised in New Jersey, at Cross River we recognize our responsibility to support entrepreneurs, especially those struggling during these difficult times,” said Eden Hoffman, Head of Communications at Cross River. “We congratulate the first graduating class of the Entrepreneur Training Program, a timely and exciting collaboration with Operation HOPE, and are eager to see each graduate’s next chapter and how they will pay it forward.”
Twelve participants of the first Entrepreneur Training Program cohort have successfully completed the 8-week interactive course. The Program is free and covers the basics of creating a business plan and starting a company. Participants also learn the fundamentals of advertising, marketing, financial statements and raising business capital, as well as receive pro bono access to high level executives at Cross River for mentorship, support and networking opportunities. Graduates from all cohorts of the Program will also be able to stay connected through an ETP alumni network and individualized business coaching to support a successful launch of their business.
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“Now more than ever, we are committed to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses with the financial tools and business knowledge they need to navigate these uncertain times,” said John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Operation HOPE. “We are proud to be working with Cross River to support this first graduating class of our Entrepreneur Training Program and look forward to supporting many more hardworking entrepreneurs in the future.”
Since March and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cross River and Operation HOPE have been working together to provide resources to individuals and community partners, including virtual financial literacy courses and small business development workshops. Additionally, through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Cross River provided more than 198,000 loans to small businesses in every sector and state across the country, saving almost 1 million employees’ jobs and having a profound impact on their families, too.
“Before joining the Entrepreneur Training Program, starting my business seemed like a million miles away and writing the business plan seemed a little overwhelming,” said Roselind Brown, a graduate of the first Entrepreneur Training Program cohort. “Now after the program, I have a business plan and detailed next steps to reach my goals. With this plan, I am motivated and determined to make my business a success.”
The second cohort of the Entrepreneur Training Program is already in session. Cross River is partnering with local organizations for additional Fall 2020 cohorts, as well as continued financial literacy programming in communities across the country.
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