10-Week Program Kicks Off September 6, Aiming to Generate Millions in New Revenue for Chicago-Area BusinessesCHICAGO, July 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Applications are now open for the Fall 2024 cohort of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago's Breedlove Accelerator program. The program, which begins September 6, 2024, aims to address the staggering $146 million funding gap faced by women of color entrepreneurs in Chicago.This initiative offers crucial support to later-stage women of color entrepreneurs, providing resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities to scale their businesses and build generational wealth.The Breedlove Accelerator, a cornerstone of YWCA's Women's Entrepreneurship Center, targets women of color business owners with at least 2 years of experience and $100,000+ in annual revenue.Running bi-yearly, the program has supported 60 women-owned businesses since its inception, generating more than $10 million in new revenue and creating dozens of jobs in the Chicago area.Participants in the Fall 2024 cohort will receive:10 weeks of intensive instruction on financial management, marketing strategies, and operational scalingOne-on-one mentorship from industry leaders and successful entrepreneursIntroductions to potential funders, including venture capitalists and angel investorsOngoing support to implement growth strategiesAccess to a powerful network of fellow entrepreneurs and program alumni"The Breedlove Accelerator is a crucial component of Chicago's economic development strategy," says Cheryl Hudson-Jackson, Director of Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center at YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. "By empowering women of color entrepreneurs, we're not just changing individual lives – we're building stronger communities and fostering innovation across our city."The program is supported by key partners including BMO, the Coleman Foundation, Mightyhum and Tether. Eligible applicants include women of color business owners in the Chicago area meeting the program's criteria.Interested entrepreneurs can apply online, https://bit.ly/BreedloveApplication, before the August 12 deadline.About Breedlove Entrepreneurship CenterThe YWCA's Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center is named for Madam C.J. Walker, America's first self-made female millionaire. Born to formerly enslaved parents as Sarah Breedlove, and orphaned at the age of six, she rose to success with sheer determination and grit

"The Women's Alliance has long partnered with YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, given the YWCA's mission of eliminating racism and empowering women and families.