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Scale DSM Opens Applications For 2023 Cohort

March 22, 2023

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (March 22, 2023) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership has opened applications for the second cohort of the Scale DSM Minority Business Accelerator powered by Interise. Scale DSM, sponsored by Wells Fargo, helps businesses gain access to knowledge, management know-how and networks needed to increase revenue, create jobs and positively impact the community. Participants will complete Interise’s award-winning and internationally recognized StreetWise ‘MBA,’ (minority business accelerator) curriculum, which is centered around practical, case-based peer learning for minority-led businesses.   

Participants will be required to attend one session every other week on five module topics: 

  • Business + Strategic Assessment 
  • Financial Management 
  • Sales + Marketing 
  • Talent + Capital Resources 
  • Strategic Growth Action Plan 

“The Partnership is excited to bring the Scale DSM program back for another year,” said Juan Pablo Sanchez, Director of Inclusive Business Strategies at The Partnership. “We received great feedback from the first program and are ready to assist another group of entrepreneurs with knowledge to help them grow their businesses.”  

The second Scale DSM cohort will take part in the accelerator from Tuesday, June 13 until Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023. The program is tuition free and dedicated to assisting minority-owned small businesses to help continue to sustain growth across Greater Des Moines (DSM).  

Applicants must meet the following requirements: 

  • Minority-owned business 
  • $150,000 – $4 million in annual revenues 
  • One other full-time employee besides the owner(s) 
  • Been in business for at least two years 
  • Willingness and ability to attend class for seven months, complete mandatory assignments, and complete program surveys up to three years following the program 

The application deadline for the 2023 Scale DSM program is Sunday, May 7. The application asks for business information including a description of the business, founding date, number of employees, annual revenue and plans for the future. It should take around 20 minutes to complete. If interested in applying, click here. 

Sponsored by Wells Fargo, the program helps minority-led businesses gain access to knowledge, management know-how and networks needed to increase revenue, create jobs and positively impact the community. The program is tuition free and will run from June through December 2023.  

“Wells Fargo believes entrepreneurs are essential for a vibrant economy here in central Iowa,” said Laura Howe, branch baking region director at Wells Fargo. “We are excited to continue to be a part of this educational program to help create and continue to grow an inclusive and successful small business community in Greater Des Moines.” 

For more information on the program, visit The Partnership’s website. 

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership 

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 24 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 400 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.