HBKi: Cultivate in partnership with Santander Bank
Hot Bread Kitchen has partnered with Santander Bank to provide resources, capital, and mentorship to early-stage entrepreneurs in the food-industry in the New York City area. This exciting and innovative program is fully funded by Santander and is free for participating entrepreneurs.
The program provides:
- Live virtual classes taught by Babson College MBA professors
- A curriculum built for food business owners
- Connections to mentors in the food industry
- A network of fellow food entrepreneurs
- The opportunity to win capital grants ranging from $2,500 to $13,000
| Best For | Women or gender-expansive, immigrant, or BIPOC-owned food entrepreneurs in the NYC area, Greater Boston, Rhode Island, and Bristol County MA, in operation for at least one year (see additional eligibility below) |
| Time Commitment | 12 weeks, 3pm—5pm EST Tuesdays and Thursdays |
| Where | Online |
| When | Application is now open! |
Ready to take the next step?
Complete an application form before January 30, 2025, or attend an information session on the following dates:
- December 12th
- January 22nd
Eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone apply?
We are looking for food businesses that:
- Are owned by women or gender-expansive people, immigrants, or BIPOC entrepreneurs
- Food-related industries, including processing, technology manufacturing, and food services.
- Have been in operation for at least one year (as of January 1, 2024)
- Have revenue between $25,000 and $1,000,000 in the last calendar year
- Are located in the New York City area, Greater Boston, Rhode Island, or Bristol County, MA
- Between 1 and 10 full-time equivalent employees
Is there any cost for the program?
No, this program is free, fully funded by Santander Bank! All of Hot Bread Kitchen’s programs are free to participate.
How are the capital grants awarded?
All participants who successfully complete the program (attend classes, present a business pitch and submit a final action plan) are eligible for a grant of $2,500.
Nine exemplary graduates will be awarded grants of up to $13,000.
How can I get more information?
Sign up here for an information session.
If you have any questions about the program not answered here, please contact cultivatesmallbusiness@hotbreadkitchen.org
I’m not ready for this program, can I join another program?
Yes! Hot Bread Kitchen’s SEED Program may be a good fit for you. Learn more about Hot Bread Kitchen’s small business programs here.
Partners
