NAABA, Startup YMM partner on mentorship program for entrepreneurs
“Business is so multifaceted and has so many different components,” said Michelle Toner, executive director of NAABA. “We really have a vast array of experiences and skills so people are getting a wholesome mentoring opportunity.”
The pilot program is based on a mentoring model developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Natasha Hartson, Startup YMM’s entrepreneurship and innovation director, said the pilot will be an opportunity to learn and adjust to what the community needs from the mentorship.
“Many of our mentors are those people that have gone forward and cut down the trees to make the path to entrepreneurship,” said Toner. “It’s about having somebody help you navigate waters that have already been chartered.”
The pilot program is accepting eight to 10 mentees. NAABA and Startup YMM are looking for people already with an idea for a local business, are willing to receive constructive criticism and have a particular area of their business they hope to work on.
The mentees can remain with the program as long as needed. Applications are open until May 5.
“This is an opportunity to help the new up and coming folks who are coming in to fill some gaps we are now faced with,” said Hartson. “We have, unfortunately, seen some businesses close but this program can help a lot of businesses move forward.”
Source: https://www.fortmcmurraytoday.com/news/naaba-startup-ymm-partner-on-mentorship-program-for-entrepreneurs