Elevate Communities Business Program
A program of The Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Begins October 2026 Ends March 2027
Program Mission, Objective, and Purpose
Our mission to break down the systemic barriers that keep entrepreneurs of color from starting, growing and sustaining thriving business. Through culturally responsive education, bilingual mentorship, and access to capital and networks, we equip minority entrepreneurs across our region with the tools, relationships, and confidence to build business that last-and communities that grow stronger because of them.
Who This Program Serves
those looking to start one — with priority given to minority and underrepresented entrepreneurs. It’s designed for anyone who has felt shut out of traditional business support because of language, background, or lack of access — and it’s built to serve not just one city, but the whole regional community, including neighboring towns and communities connected to it. Priority will be given to those starting a business, working on getting a brick & mortar or business that have less than 5 years of operations.
Program Calendar
- Month 1: Foundation – October 22nd
- Vision, Goal Setting
- Business idea clarity
- Understanding you “Why”
- How to Network
- Networking Event during Month 1 – TBA
- Month 2: Market Research – November 19th
- Identifying target Customers
- Competitor analysis
- Validating your ideas
- Customer Service & Retention
- Month 3: Business Setup – December 10th
- Legal Structure
- Licenses Permit
- Basic Operations
- Contracts & Basic Business agreement
- Month 4: Branding + Marketing – January 12th
- Brand Identity
- Social Media Strategy
- Digital Literacy & Online Business Presences
- Month 5: Financial + Funding – February 25th
- Pricing, Budgeting, Cash Flow and Taxes
- Access to Capital
- Preparing to speak with lenders
- Separating between person and business income
- Month 6: Growth + Pitch Prep – March 18th
- Scaling Strategies
- Partnerships
- Finalize Business Plan
- Graduation – TBA
The Program Pillars & Core Values
Culturally Relevant Education
Bilingual (English/Spanish) workshops covering permits, licensing, taxes, and business fundamentals, taught in a way that reflects participants' lived experience.
Mentorship & Mentor Networks
Connecting participants to the informal relationships and guidance.
Community and Visibility
Networking mixers and events that build public visibility and cross-community connection, not just private instruction.
Lasting Alumni Network
Permanent chamber membership and alumni engagement that carries support well beyond the six-month cohort
- Sessions are once a month from 6PM-8PM in Muscatine, a light dinner will be served for those attending. All sessions will take place at Muscatine County Extension Office
- 12-15 spots are available for our first program, business must be in Muscatine or Louisa County
- Applications are open through October or until spots are filled
- Membership of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is required post program. Attendance is required for the full program including networking event and graduation. Make up sessions are available.
- Bilingual interpreters will be available for those needing assistance.
- For more information contact Program & Operations Manager Sebastian Mireles se Habla Espanol