Business Strategy: ARPA program bolsters next generation of Latino business leaders

StitchCrew’s OKC Latino Accelerator program is now accepting applications for the newest cohort, fully funded by ARPA aid. This initiative aims to support Latino-owned businesses in Oklahoma City, helping them achieve sustainable growth.

StitchCrew helped Ana Nez, founder of Vida Bars, take her curly hair care business to the next level.

After Ana launched Vida Bars in her kitchen, the mom of two participated in StitchCrew’s first OKC Latino Accelerator in the spring of 2023. Since then, her business has implemented the strategies she learned in the program to ensure manageable growth and efficient operations, prepare for expansion, increase distribution and achieve marketing ROIs. Connecting with Oklahoma’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and leveraging opportunities to meet capital providers, executives and thought leaders made a tremendous impact for Ana.

Ana has achieved her goal of 30% year-over-year growth, invested in packaging to make Vida Bars retail-ready, and has her shampoo and conditioner bars on shelves in The Refillery, Arcadia Farmers Market and salons across Oklahoma City.

We proudly support minority business founders through StitchCrew’s OKC Latino Accelerator, which offers participants the opportunity to refine their business approaches, build scalable models and increase revenue. Upon completing the program, participants can receive a $15,000 non-dilutive grant to implement the business growth strategies they learn in the program.

Applications are open through August 4. To qualify, businesses must be registered in Oklahoma, be minority-owned, have fewer than 100 full-time employees and be based in Oklahoma City. Selected companies must have at least one founder commit to an eight-week program in the fall of 2024.

The cost of participation is covered by The Alliance. The Alliance has several programs, funded by a $20 million allocation from the Oklahoma City Council using federal ARPA funding, designed to help individuals, entrepreneurs and small businesses recover and thrive post-pandemic.

Applications for related ARPA programs, including OKC Minority Founder, Real Deal Collective, Real Deal Food & Beverage and Generation Impact, are also closing soon. These programs are made possible through partnerships with businesses and community organizations. For more information, visit www.theallianceokc.org/arpa-programs .

Now is the time to join the next generation of Latino business leaders in Oklahoma City. StitchCrew’s OKC Latino Accelerator offers an unparalleled opportunity for growth, mentorship and funding. Don’t miss your chance to be part of a transformative program.

For more information and to submit your application, visit www.stitchcrew.com/latino-accelerator . Applications close on August 4.

Kenton Tsoodle is the president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City .

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