Accelerator
The Launch
Cohort 9 is now underway. Sign up to hear when applications for Cohort 10 open.
What is the Accelerator?
This focused, nine-month program is designed for emerging entrepreneurs who are ready to take their businesses seriously. The program is open to those with a solid idea, a part-time business looking to go full-time, and full-time businesses that need help to take their business to the next level.
You’ll gain the tools, guidance, and community you need to make better decisions and create something that lasts.
- 10 weeks of hands-on business training
- A full, working business plan
- 6 months of guided mentorship
- Milestones and accountability to keep you moving
How it works
Attend a mandatory Information Session
Apply and sign up for an Interview
If selected, you'll join the next Cohort
Graduate and grow with ongoing support
Program structure
10 weeks of training
Weekly sessions (30 classroom hours) covering core business fundamentals. Includes mandatory homework.
Business plan development
Create a complete, working business plan and budget.
- Marketing plan
- 1-year business development plan by quarter
- 12-month financial forecast
6 months of mentorship
Work one-on-one with an experienced entrepreneur to guide your decisions and growth.
Ongoing community
Stay connected through the alumni network, events, and continued support.
What you'll gain
Clarity
Turn your idea or existing business into a defined, viable business model.
Confidence
Understand your numbers, your market, and your next steps.
Accountability
Stay on track with weekly milestones and structured progress.
Connection
Build relationships with mentors and peers who support your growth.
Who can apply
To be considered for the Accelerator, applicants must:
- Live in Holly Springs
- Own or plan to start a business or nonprofit in Holly Springs
- Offer a product or service with the potential to generate profit
- Demonstrate a need for business and financial guidance
- Attend an information session
- Submit an application
- Complete an interview with the selection committee
- Commit to 10 weeks of training (weekly in-person classes with homework between sessions)
- Develop a business plan and budget
- Be willing to meet and communicate regularly with a mentor
Please note: Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) businesses and franchises are not eligible.
Real stories from real businesses
When I went through the Launch program, I was teaching private music lessons out of my home to eight students. I saw the need to expand access to music education in Holly Springs, and I had the passion to do it – but I didn’t have the business know-how to turn it into something real. Launch Holly Springs changed that. The program gave me the foundation, the mentorship, and the confidence to transform giving music lessons into an actual business.
Shortly after I graduated LHS, Ashe School of Music opened our first studio with 45 students. Enrollment doubled within months and we expanded into a second location. Today, Ashe School of Music serves over 400 students weekly with a team of more than 20 instructors, from two beautiful downtown Holly Springs locations. Our newly opened Ashe Music Hall has become a valued hub for cultural & performing arts in Holly Springs.
None of that would have happened without Launch Holly Springs. They didn’t just teach me how to run a business – they believed in the idea and gave me everything I needed for success.
My business went from being operated by a solo cleaner (myself) to a fully staffed company with 19 employees. LHS provided opportunities to meet and network with different Cohort graduates, as well as the providence of a mentor that helped guide me and my business in the right direction.
I learned 2 key lessons. First, in today’s business world, it’s more about your network than your net worth. Second, I learned that if you provide overwhelming value to your customers, they’ll have no other choice but to stay with you and refer you.
Launch helped us accelerate our growth and gave us the confidence to move forward with our vision and make it a reality! Launch has provided us with a wonderful community of entrepreneurs at all stages of their business across many industries. Launch has also provided us with tools and resources to plan, prepare, and execute the vision for our business. The Launch program is an equalizer for small business owners as it gives them the tools and resources to optimize their ability to succeed.
Our graduation from Launch Holly Springs has given us not only a sound business foundation, but also access to a ready-made support community. We regularly connect with our Launch family to network, get feedback and ideas on business concerns, and tap into business development programs and opportunities. Lastly, the Launch community continues to support us through word-of-mouth referrals.
FAQ
Do I need to have a registered business to apply?
No. You can apply with a viable business idea or an early-stage business.
How much time does the program require?
You’ll need to commit to 3-hour weekly sessions for 10 weeks, plus 3-5 hours per week outside of sessions to work on your business. You’ll also be mentored by a fellow business leader for six months. We encourage all our graduates to remain engaged with the community long-term.
Is the program free?
There is no monetary cost to participate, but you’ll need to commit your time and focus.
How are participants selected?
To be selected, one must first attend an informational meeting and then submit an application. Selected candidates are then invited to interview with the selection committee.
What is the additional benefit of the Cohort experience?
Develop deep and supportive connections with your fellow Cohort members.
What happens after I graduate?
You’ll continue to receive mentorship, access to the alumni network, and opportunities to stay involved. You may also be able to apply to join the LHS Leadership Team, as openings become available.
