501-918-3025
calsfoundation@cals.org
calsfoundation@cals.org
Incubator Program
This is Rock It! Lab’s signature program. Each six months a cohort of thirty or more entrepreneurs will be selected to become part of the RIL incubator program. Incubator members will have full access to the building, programs and supports offered by the RIL.
The goal of the Rock It! Lab incubator program is to provide free and low-cost assistance to help startups and early-stage companies develop and grow their businesses.
An important component of the program is mentorship. Rock It! Lab aspires to provide one-on- one mentorship to participants in the incubator program subject to the availability of suitable mentors.
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Consultations
Many people dream of owning their own business, but starting a business is not easy and growing it is even harder. At the Rock It! Lab, we will help you navigate the early stages of your entrepreneurial journey and help you build a viable business. Sign up for a FREE consultation today.
Mentorship
We’re looking for business mentors to share their knowledge and experience to help startups achieve success and entrepreneurs in need of mentorship.
Mentorship is essential for startup founders to succeed. This is why Rock It! Lab is committed to providing entrepreneurs at all stages with access to mentors with real-world experience to assist them in starting and growing their businesses.
The Rock It! Lab mentorship program is designed to provide one-on-one mentorship to help businesses succeed and avoid common mistakes along the way, as the most valuable advice often comes from someone who has already been down the road you’re traveling.
If you are interested in becoming a Mentor for Rock It! Lab or requesting a mentor, please submit an application at the links below.
Access to Capital
The Rock It! Lab connects businesses to potential loan and grant opportunities.
Imani Fund
In 2021, ReMix Ideas in partnership with FORGE Community Loan Fund (a CDFI) launched the Imani Fund, an innovative loan product which is rooted in equity. Imani means Faith in Swahili.
“I believe that access to capital is the key for businesses to survive, grow and scale,” Benito Lubazibwa, executive director of Advancing Black Entrepreneurship and ReMix Ideas, said. The fund uses a unique underwriting process that values an individual’s character and business-model potential over their collateral or credit score. By providing microloans between $5,000 and $25,000 and free technical assistance, the fund hopes to help more underestimated entrepreneurs succeed.
“Over the past few years, I’ve worked closely with Black entrepreneurs and witnessed many of their business dreams die in a bank parking lot due to an unfavorable credit history or lack of collateral,” Benito said.
To request information about the Imani Fund, email us at rockitlab@cals.org
Business Resources
The Central Arkansas Library System offers many free business resources to our cardholders. Designed for entrepreneurs wanting quick access to the latest information on business topics.