The initiative offers a free, virtual program that guides entrepreneurs through creating business plans and accessing financing.
Business Atelier, a firm specializing in business development, has launched Inmersión 360, a six-week virtual program that provides specialized mentorship for early-stage entrepreneurs. Participants will develop a business plan ready to implement or present for a financing application. The program is aimed at businesses with fewer than two years of operation and is open to any Puerto Rico resident.
The course content is designed to address entrepreneurs' core needs in key areas such as business model structuring, market strategy development, financial projections and the creation of effective business plans.
Participants will also receive guidance on how to pitch their ideas to potential investors, access financing and strengthen the administrative foundations of their business to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.
"In Puerto Rico, entrepreneurs face significant barriers to accessing capital and structuring their ideas. With Inmersión 360, we want to change that reality and equip them with the tools they need for their businesses to thrive."
-Tamara Matos, CEO of Business Atelier.
What you need to know if you want to apply
The application period will be open through Jan. 12, 2025. The program will begin Feb. 10, 2025, and conclude March 21, 2025.
Applicants must have a viable business idea or a recently established business, as well as the intention to seek capital. The main sectors include services, tourism, innovation, technology, health, consulting, education, renewable energy, entertainment and telecommunications.
Upon completing the program, participants will have the opportunity to compete for one of ten spots sponsored by Oriental, which will offer up to 12 weeks of technical support for financing applications.
That support includes the preparation of business plans, financial projections and presentation simulations before loan officers. Business Atelier, with an 85% success rate in commercial financing processes, will lead this effort, significantly increasing participants' chances of success.
"Closing the capital access gap is essential to ensuring that entrepreneurs in Puerto Rico can turn their ideas into sustainable, competitive businesses. When emerging companies gain access to the financing they need, they not only grow individually but also drive the local economy, create jobs and strengthen communities," Matos Hernández said.
For her part, Mari Evelyn Rodríguez, Chief Retail Banking Officer at Oriental, emphasized Oriental's commitment to the progress of its clients and the community on the Island.
"We are committed to supporting small and midsize businesses and becoming their primary partner. By supporting local entrepreneurs, we not only foster the growth of their businesses but also drive the local economy and create new opportunities for the entire community."
-Mari Evelyn Rodríguez, Chief Retail Banking Officer at Oriental
With support from federal CDBG-DR funds, Inmersión 360 is offered completely free of charge, reaffirming its commitment to promoting business development and facilitating access to financing in Puerto Rico.
For more information and to complete the application, interested parties can visit https://quierosolicitar.com or contact Business Atelier at info@busatelier.com or by phone at (939) 293-2507.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
