Retail Readiness Entrepreneurship Training Program

Grant Overview

Donor: Walmart

About: The Retail Readiness Entrepreneurship Training Program, powered by Watson Institute, is a 16-week initiative aimed at supporting 25 underserved entrepreneurs in agriculture and value-added product sectors. The program provides leadership training, retail readiness certifications (up to $1,000 stipend), mentorship, and networking opportunities. Participants work on scaling their ventures, creating jobs, and fostering community impact. Key activities include virtual workshops, community Basecamp workshops, and a final pitch summit. Alumni receive long-term support for venture growth.

Focus:
-Agriculture and farming
-Value-added agricultural products
-Leadership training
-Retail readiness
-Social impact entrepreneurship

Region: United States

Eligibility:
-Age 18+
-US-based entrepreneurs in areas with high wealth inequality (e.g., Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles)
-Impact-driven entrepreneurs working in farming or value-added agricultural products
-Ventures in the Problem-Solution or Product-Market Fit stages
-Ability to commit to 16 weeks of workshops and a two-week virtual immersive

Benefits:
-Leadership and venture development training
-Retail readiness certification stipend (up to $1,000)
-Mentorship opportunities through expert-led sessions
-Network building with fellow entrepreneurs and alumni
-Basecamp workshop facilitation support (stipend included)
-Pitch development and final summit to present ventures to funders and leaders

Terms:
-Program dates: March 10 – June 30, 2025
-Virtual sessions held Tuesdays to Thursdays, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM MT
-Priority application deadline: January 26, 2025; rolling review afterward
-Participants must actively engage in program activities