TULSA,
Okla., July 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/
-- Cherokee Nation and The University of
Tulsa announce the launch of the second cohort of the TU
Cherokee Women's AcceleratHER Fellowship empowered by the ayana
Foundation.
Designed to accelerate the growth of venture-scalable businesses
led by Cherokee women, the initiative is a transformative 12-week
hybrid program that addresses the unique challenges women face in
scaling their business concepts, with a particular focus on access
to capital and resources. Applications for fall 2024 will be
accepted until July 30.
The TU Cherokee Women's AcceleratHER Fellowship is possible
through the support and collaboration of the Cherokee Nation, TU's
Collins College of Business, the ayana
Foundation and community sponsors.
"Native American women often face unique challenges within the
business community, including systemic disparities and lack of
resources. We stand ready to change that statistic by providing a
supportive platform for these talented entrepreneurs," said
Kathy Taylor, program sponsor and
former dean of Collins College of
Business.
"As we continually explore new ways to further the success of
the Cherokee Nation and Oklahoma,
our tribe stands at the forefront of supporting small family-owned
businesses and creating quality jobs within our tribal communities.
Native American women represent the lowest rates of business
entrepreneurship across all groups. This fellowship is an excellent
means of beginning to address such an unacceptable statistic, while
also pursuing the longtime mission of the tribe and its businesses
of investing in the success of every Cherokee citizen," said
Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck
Hoskin Jr.
Ten participants receive a $10,000
seed grant provided by the Cherokee Nation and access to business
coaching, networking opportunities and community resources, without
ceding any control, ownership or capital. The program culminates in
a showcase event where fellows present their ventures to the
community, mentors and potential investors.
"By nurturing a diverse community of talented entrepreneurs, we
can drive meaningful impact and innovation in the entrepreneurial
landscape. The TU Cherokee Women's AcceleratHER Fellowship is a
testament to the commitment to fostering growth and success so that
women founders can flourish," said Lesley
Robinson, director of education at the ayana Foundation.
Applications for the TU Cherokee Women's AcceleratHER Fellowship
are open. The 2024 program runs from September through December.
Find more information and apply at utulsa.edu/AcceleratHER24 or
email fellowship@ayana.org.
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SOURCE The University of Tulsa