So You Think You
Want to Raise Capital?
Epicenter’s Capital Readiness Accelerator
Epicenter’s Capital Readiness Accelerator is a structured, multi-phase program that gives entrepreneurs the tools and knowledge they need to effectively navigate the rapidly changing fundraising environment.
Each phase of the program has a competitive application process. Companies can apply to join the program at any phase.
This program will run biannually.
Applications for the current cohort are closed. Please check back with us for announcements for future cohorts.
Phase 1:
So You Think You Want Investment?
Phase 1 of the Capital Readiness Program is a cohort-based classroom-style accelerator that will meet weekly over a 6-week period.
There will be two cohorts that are taught simultaneously, an Equity Investment cohort led by Nate Smith, Epicenter’s director of startup services and a Debt Investment cohort, led by Choya Johnson, Epicenter’s capital programs specialist. Some sessions will be aimed at both cohorts and some will have the cohorts in breakout rooms for capital-type-specific training. Each week will include fieldwork for the entrepreneurs.
Each attendee will receive a commitment bonus of $50 for each week they attend.
Graduates of the Phase 1 program can apply to Phase 2. Graduates of Phase 1 may also be eligible for individualized fundraising support on a case-by-case basis.
Phase 1 Program Schedule
Week 1: Understanding Debt Capital
Week 1 emphasizes the importance of business capital — where it comes from, and how business decisions are made.
Week 2: Analyzing Debt Capital in Business Context
Learn how to identify capital needs and how to determine the right time for raising capital. This will include case studies with entrepreneurs in Epicenter’s portfolio
Week 3: Preparing for Debt Capital Acquisition
Learn how to identify the right investors, and receive guidance on gathering and preparing the appropriate documentation.
Week 4: Navigating the Debt Capital Acquisition Process
This week will unpack how investors make decisions, and what steps founders will go through as they apply for funding. This week also covers soft skills and how to sell as a founder.
Week 5: Mechanics of Debt Capital
From interest rates to converting instruments, this week covers investment terms that every founder should know.
Week 6: Review & Graduation
Graduation from this program includes a celebratory panel discussion featuring a curated mix of professional investors.
Phase 2: Be Smarter Than Your Banker
Phase 2 of the capital program is a competitive, cohort-based program that is targeted at preparing businesses to get financing. This course will be led by Kiesha Kelsey, Epicenter’s director of capital programs. Phase 2 is a 5-week program that includes fieldwork each week. By the end of the program, companies will have the materials they need to successfully apply for a loan from a bank. This cohort may also include targeted interventions from a fractional chief financial officer (CFO) service.
Phase 2 Program Schedule
Week 1: Understanding Financial Statements
Week 2: All about Ratios: Everything founders should know about what their bank wants
Week 3: Financial Projections for business
Week 4: Guest Lecture with Subject Matter Expert (Instructor to be announced)
Week 5: Recap, Review & Graduation
Additional support:
Appropriate companies as determined by Epicenter’s capital team, will receive personalized support for their companies’ fundraising. Support will include identifying appropriate investors, pitch and slide deck feedback, assistance in preparing documentation, and targeted interventions with a contract CFO where appropriate.
If you have any additional questions about Epicenter’s Capital Readiness Accelerator,
please reach out to choya@epicentermemphis.org or nate@epicentermemphis.org.
