Scholarships Available for LaunchU Business Startup Training
03/27/2017

The Economic and Business Engagement Center at Southeast Missouri State University announces scholarship opportunities are now available for an upcoming LaunchU class for aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs. Enrollment is now open for the next LaunchU, sponsored by the Isle Casino, April 17-May 15 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Economic and Business Engagement Center at 920 Broadway in Cape Girardeau. LaunchU is a five-week hands-on course that coaches aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs through the business planning process to determine business feasibility, including the actual development of a professional, Small Business Administration-approved business plan, pitch and financial forecast. At the end of the recent cohort held at the University’s Sikeston Regional Campus, several of the class participants competed with their pitches in front of a judging panel comprised of local business professionals. The Isle Casino is providing two $500 cash prizes to the top pitch competition winners and a limited number of partial scholarships to reduce the cost of the course from $175 to $99 for each participant. 'At Isle Casino Cape Girardeau we are excited to take an active role seeing LaunchU become a reality,” said Lyle Randolph, general manager and vice president. “The program offers a wonderful opportunity for individuals looking to start their own business and provides the tools to help them succeed.” Scholarships and class seats are limited, so advance registration is required. To enroll, visit www.innovationmic.org/launchu, complete the scholarship application and pay online. For more information, contact Gabrielle Penca at (573) 651-5095 or gpenca@semo.edu.