Square One DSM to Serve Local Entrepreneurs in High-Potential Companies
Greater Des Moines Partnership announced today that it will open Square One DSM on May 1. This new facility will be an accelerator for local, high-potential companies that are past the incubation stage. This program will run year around and tailor goals and expectations for each company accepted as well as a specific curriculum. Square One DSM will take no equity and provide no investment dollars.
Square One DSM aims to fill the gap in the local entrepreneurial ecosystem between companies that are in the incubation stage and those that have reached critical mass in customers and capital. The companies in this gap are high-potential companies that often need in-depth, long-term support that has not been available to date.
Square One DSM is the next step in supporting local entrepreneurs, said Mike Colwell, Executive Director of Entrepreneurial Initiatives at the Partnership, who will lead Square One DSM. Square One DSM will provide:
- Intense mentoring and development in a structured environment
- High expectations of participating startups for progress and execution on a week-to-week basis
- A physical location to work full time at no cost
- Substantial access to mentors and investors, both angel and venture capital
- A focus on customer acquisition first and capital second
- Support for building a viable, sustainable company
- A set departure date for each startup
As a part of this new initiative, the Business Innovation Zone (BIZ) brand will be retired. All events and activities of the BIZ, including the popular monthly Startup Stories luncheon series, will continue as part of Square One DSM.
Those interested in additional information about this new initiative can contact Colwell at mcolwell@DSMpartnership.com. Details on the application process and criteria for acceptance will be made available by May 1. Members of the Square One DSM Advisory Council will participate in the review of applicants and selection of companies.
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 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,100 Regional Business Members and more than 330 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.