It is important for the cohort to have a level of trust with one another. However, some may be more sensitive to protecting their idea. We believe it is possible to share a wider perspective on the idea rather than the idea itself. For example, perhaps some one has developed a new energy drink that [...]
Be transparent and accessible to others Be open and honest Be respectful Ask questions Provide answers to others Provide encouragement Honor confidentiality and each others privacy Honor each other’s ideas Provide suggestions not hard advice
As frustrating as it is, facilitators are not responsible for making sure each participant completes the fieldwork. Each week, discussions and activities are built upon material discussed in the prior session so it is important that participants do the fieldwork. The fieldwork allows them to apply what the new concepts to their own business or [...]
Our programs are designed to work without audio or visual support, and here’s why. We invested heavily in the CO.STARTERS workbooks. All the content is there so the participants can reference the material at any time. Because we believe so strongly in the cohort experience of shared knowledge and shared learning, this leaves participants [...]
The case studies provide a standard platform for conversation and are meant to create discussion around the new topics presented. This also allows the facilitator to observe how well the cohort is understanding the new concepts. As you progress through the course, the case studies become more detailed as the case study personas face [...]
You may not have noticed but there is a place to track attendance on the customer count chart. Under the space for each participant’s name, there are 10 circles to track attendance. Fill in each circle when the participant is present.
We do not recommend adding participants after Session 2. Sessions 1 & 2 set the foundation for the cohort experience. Session 1 is time for the business owner to self reflect about themselves in their role as an entrepreneur and connect with the cohort; Session 2 begins to explore who their customers are and what [...]
Ideally, a participant will benefit the most by participating in every session, particularly beginning with Session 1. The first session is when everyone gets to know the other participants and their business or idea, and everyone shares their concerns, the problems they are challenged by, and things they hope to learn. It’s also when [...]
We leave the Gift Guide up most of the year for multi-occasion shopping, with a brief pause for an annual refresh prior to relaunch in early November. We accept submissions at any time!
The Gift Guide will be promoted across our network of 120+ member locations and 16+ partner organizations, hitting the inboxes of small business enthusiasts across the U.S. and beyond. These are people who are excited about advocating for small businesses and sharing the love for local entrepreneurship.