HustleSBE
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
HustleSBE was created as a cohort model to foster peer connections amongst business owners and support accountability between participants.
HustleSBE is a program for Minority and Female business owners that already have a least a year in business and who are focused on exploring new solutions for their customers, generating new ideas, and shoring up current business practices to create a solid foundation upon which to grow.
5
Cohorts Completed
46
Graduates
46
Companies
$40,000
Allocated to Graduates
HustleSBE Facts
MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM
8 SESSIONS OVER 8 WEEKS
Cohort Six will launch on April 18, 2023. Sessions will be held in-person from 9:00am - 12:00pm. Location is to be determined.
$50 NON-REFUNDABLE FEE
The total cost of the HustleSBE program is $750 per participant. Through the generosity of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership, $700 will be awarded as scholarships to each participant in HustleSBE.
15 COMPANIES PER COHORT
Program participation is limited to fifteen companies committed to growing their businesses.
RESPONSIVE CURRICULUM
Sessions are structured around the needs of the participants, with topics including business model canvas, access to capital, and growth strategies.
ACCESS TO CAPITAL
Upon completion of HustleSBE, graduates will have access to funds (up to $1,000 per company) to implement strategies identified in the program.
POST-BOOTCAMP TRAINING
As a part of a growing community, cohort members learn from one another, as well as mentors and experts long after the bootcamp has ended.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Subject matter experts share their expertise with the HustleSBE participants to support their business growth. Best practices are explained in a way that is applicable to the participant’s business needs.

ACCESS TO CONNECTIONS
As a part of the Regional Partnership, graduates gain access to a network of influencers, decision-makers and opportunities to do business together. There are also opportunities to apply for capacity building scholarships.

GROWTH STRATEGY
HustleSBE is for already existing businesses looking to develop a sustainable growth strategy. Every industry and type is encouraged to apply. The tools and resources provided by HustleSBE are applicable to a variety of business models.
WE BREAK THE GROUND
YOU BUILD THE FUTURE
Requirements
FOR HUSTLESBE
+ Must complete the application
+ Companies are accepted from any industry
+ Currently, we do not accept any non-profits including 501c3, 501c6, etc.
+ Must be a full-time business owner
+ Must be at least one year in business
+ Must have access to a computer and high speed internet
Please note that we will not accept applications from businesses that would be concurrently participating in a business accelerator, bootcamp, or other cohort-based model to develop their business. (Time frame June 2022 – December 2022). ie Spark at Saint Mary’s, SBEAP at Notre Dame, RISE, Commercialization Engine at IDEA Center.
Past Grads
OF HUSTLESBE
Meet HustleSBE's Past Five Cohorts of Graduates!
News and Updates
To receive updates about this and other diversity and inclusion activities, visit our Get Engaged page and select Diversity and Inclusion as your "Area of Interest".