Eastern Michigan University launches Empowerment Program for entrepreneurs from low-income families
The program will assist individuals from low-income backgrounds as they plan, start, and grow their businesses.
Eastern Michigan University has launched its new Empowerment Program. The Empowerment Program has been designed to help entrepreneurs from low-income families throughout the Southeast Michigan region start their businesses, as well as assist them with mentoring, certifications, and other support as they grow those businesses from idea to sustainable business.
According to an article on Eastern Michigan University’s website, Sanjib Chowdhury, who serves as the director of the EMU Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, was quoted as saying of the new program, “This program is about more than supporting businesses; it’s about building community and advancing career pathways. Entrepreneurs who often feel left out of traditional networks will find a place here. By surrounding them with mentorship, training, and financial support, we’re helping them succeed in business and career growth while strengthening the fabric of Southeast Michigan. This is a chance for hardworking entrepreneurs from low-income families to finally see their aspirations take shape both as business owners and career professionals. When we uplift underserved entrepreneurs, we uplift neighborhoods, we uplift families, and we create opportunities for lasting impact.”
The program is housed within the university’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and is designed to follow the university’s mission to prepare students and the community as a whole to reach meaningful employment and economic advancement. The Empower Program will assist participants with the tools and skills they need to become successful, as well as provide a built-in network of participants on similar paths.
The mission of the program, according to the webpage for the Empower Program, is to “ foster and sustain entrepreneurship among low-income populations in Southeast Michigan. By addressing systemic barriers and building long-term capacity, the program aims to drive inclusive economic growth and create lasting community impact.”
The Empower Program offers mentoring, with each individual participating matched to at least two mentors to provide guidance, advice, and long-term assistance. Participants will also receive financial assistance in the form of targeted funding for equipment, marketing, or similar business necessities. The program also provides participants with business and technical assistance from Eastern Michigan University students, giving entrepreneurs the ability to rely on them for consulting support. Participants will also have access to 100 hours of free part-time support from interns. Virtual workshops led by faculty members will give participants the opportunity to complete training and receive certifications.
The Empower Program is set to begin in January 2026, with applications now open until November 21, 2025. Space is limited. For maximum accessibility, there are only a handful of in-person requirements for participants, with most of the program’s offerings, including workshops, happening virtually.
For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the school’s website.