Why does my business need an accelerator program? I already know what’s needed to launch my company: hard work, dedication and self-discipline. I can do it myself.
But are you able to realistically grow your business on time and on budget? It’s no secret that startups are difficult - they require long hours of wearing many hats and the path to success is littered with decisions that can involve numerous x-factors along uncharted territory: how to fund, when to hire, who to hire, when to pivot and where to focus.
The startup road to success leads right through the mountains.
In fact, the definition of startup is a business operating under conditions of tremendous uncertainty with little or no historical information. That is the cannabis industry to a T.
Being part of a larger network helps pave the way to a faster launch with fewer bumps in the road. CanopyBoulder not only offers $20k in initial seed capital, we also provide a larger ecosystem with support and mentorship in which cannabis businesses can grow quickly and efficiently.
Exceptional Mentors
Most people don’t know jack about the cannabis industry and this includes some very smart and very successful business people from other industries. CanopyBoulder’s carefully selected mentors are the industry’s best group of informed, knowledgeable, and experienced experts. Whether you need introductions to growers, extraction artists, dispensary owners, or savvy attorneys we have the right connections. And in an industry where trust is of the utmost value these introductions can mean the difference between success or failure.
CanopyBoulder mentors are also experts in finance, marketing, business strategy, product development, trademarks and more. Launching a business is more effective in a collaborative environment, especially one in which credible, experienced mentors are available to shorten the learning curve and help avoid pitfalls.
Best Cannabis Investor Network
CanopyBoulder leads a direct path to critical seed-stage funding. CanopyBoulder enjoys close ties with leading industry investor groups such as The ArcView Group and Rockies Venture Club, and is continually growing and strengthening its network of early-stage investors.
Cannabis Big Data CEO & Founder and CanopyBoulder spring 2017 alumni, Henry Finkelstein, credits the accelerator for the startup’s successful funding:
“I didn’t need technical help. But I did know that if I was going to build a venture capital-backed ancillary business, I was going to need to expand my cannabis network and level up my investor pitch prowess. CanopyBoulder was the obvious choice”.
Being a part of a business accelerator also lends each company credibility with potential investors, helping to build relationships within an already established network.
Outstanding Alumni
CanopyBoulder alumni and their companies stay in the fold. The alumni network is a tight-knit group that helps each other out, sharing insights and ideas and offering support to the next class of cannabis entrepreneurs. CanopyBoulder companies such as Wurk and BDS Analytics join Canopy for social and networking events, and the CanopyBoulder family ensures yet another great resource for CanopyBoulder startups.
Wouldn’t it be nice to talk with a fellow CEO who just raised $10m? Think about the valuable information, connections, tips, and tricks you’ll learn from that conversation.
Meaningful Metrics and Measurement
Accountability is a huge element to starting a business. Even when the ability to self-motivate exists, meeting deadlines and goal-setting can be difficult. The accelerator program sets milestones, timelines, and keeps its founders on track. When road-blocks are presented, it’s invaluable to have the resources available to resolve issues, talk through options and receive feedback. Pro athletes use personal trainers. Pro entrepreneurs use accelerators.
Ready for an accelerator after all? Apply for our Winter 2020 class now
