The Southwest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs, or SCAPE, is accepting applications for their January 2015 cohort until Nov. 23, according to a La Plata County Economic Development Alliance news release.
SCAPE supports the creation and development of job creating companies in Southwest Colorado by offering an accelerator program which provides funding, education and intense mentoring.
The program is supported by local investors and mentors as well as economic development organizations including the Region 9 Economic Development District, the La Plata Economic Development Alliance, the Southwest Colorado Small Business Development Center, and the First Southwest Bank.
SCAPE helps grow startup companies or take established businesses to the next level, the Alliance said. Each company is eligible for an equity investment to build their company, along with free office space.
Companies also receive mentorship to help them address the specific challenges that they face in establishing and growing their company. The program length, curriculum focus, and investment options are flexible depending on the needs of each company.
In the past year, SCAPE has graduated five companies that have raised $435,000 in capital to grow their businesses, the news release said.
Successful completion of the SCAPE program provides these ventures resources to enter markets and the skills required to raise capital.
SCAPE graduates have obtained funding through Region 9 and Angel Investors. Companies also have been asked to present in front of the New Mexico Angels, The High Desert Discovery District, and Techmanity for further financial assistance.
Visit www.goscape.org for more information or to apply.
vguthrie@durangoherald.com
