SQ1 Bootcamp
Building Strong Business Foundations
Comprehensive Training for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
SQ1 Bootcamp is an intensive 10-week, 50-hour program combining formal instruction with practical, hands-on learning. It's designed to instill confidence and essential skills needed for success in high-growth industries. The program covers various sectors, including advanced manufacturing, food tracks, information technology, and service industries, led by sector experts.
Designed for entrepreneurs who are beyond the idea/concept stage and actively working with at least one mentor or professional advisor, SQ1 Bootcamp participants develop key deliverables like a business model canvas, financial statements, and a pitch deck.
Program Details
2025 Key Dates
Classes begin September 8. Classes end November 11.
Application Period
Applications open June 15. Class is seated by mid-August.
Fees
Program Fee: $250.
Need-based scholarships are available; please inquire if applicable.
Schedule
Classes held on Monday and Tuesday nights. Participants are expected to attend all classes for the duration of the program.
Prerequisites
First draft of a business model canvas, phone interview at the discretion of the program director, signed participant agreement, and completion of any pre-class assignments.
CapyBio's Rivera Builds the Blueprint for Success in Cortex
Program
Tracks & Expertise
Sector experts lead the advanced manufacturing, information technology, food and service tracks, respectively. Subject matter experts, including experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners present content throughout the program.
Program
Components
Core Business Competency Curriculum
Personalized Guidance and Mentoring: Cortex is fortunate to have a wide array of supporters in the community who provide their time and expertise help to grow St. Louis’ entrepreneurial talent.
Coworking Stipend: Space permitting, Cortex and CIC St. Louis provide SQ1 Bootcamp participants who complete a client service agreement with 6 months of coworking space at Cortex.
Seminars, Workshops, and Extended Learning Opportunities: Access to a variety of workshops and seminars designed to help SQ1 participants and entrepreneurs throughout the region learn more about the skills needed to grow their ventures.
Support for Minority Inclusion: Promote awareness and engagement in new business formation by women and underrepresented communities in order to create a more diverse and inclusive pipeline of entrepreneurs into the SQ1 program and the St. Louis entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Square One programming is made possible by the generous support of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, Wells Fargo, Missouri Technology Corporation, Enterprise Mobility Foundation, and Verizon.
