Running Start Entrepreneurship Training
Launch Your Business.
Transform Your Community.
A free bootcamp built for BIPOC entrepreneurs in Chicago's R3 Zones. No experience required — just the drive to build something that matters.
9 out of 10 startups fail.
BIPOC entrepreneurs face even steeper odds — less access to capital, networks, and mentorship. Running Start exists to change that.
of startups fail within the first five years
harder for BIPOC founders to secure venture funding
cost to you — RST is completely free
The Curriculum
9 Training Topics. Zero Cost.
From idea to pitch-ready — everything you need to launch, with no prior experience required.
Design Thinking
Human-centered approaches to solving real problems in your community.
Business Model
Build a sustainable business model that creates value and generates revenue.
Customer Discovery
Learn to validate your idea by talking to real customers before you build.
Financial Modeling
Understand your numbers — revenue projections, costs, and break-even analysis.
Fundraising
Strategies for securing grants, investment, and community-backed funding.
Marketing & Branding
Craft your story, build your brand, and reach your target audience.
Pitch Preparation
Develop a compelling pitch deck and present with confidence.
Legal Foundations
Entity formation, intellectual property, contracts, and compliance basics.
Growth Strategy
Scale your impact with sustainable growth plans and operational excellence.
Beyond the Bootcamp
Wrap-Around Support
Training is just the beginning. We surround every entrepreneur with the resources they need to succeed long-term.
1-on-1 Project Managers
A dedicated project manager to guide you through every stage of your journey.
Volunteer Teams
Skilled volunteers in marketing, tech, and operations to help build your venture.
Pro-Bono Legal
Access to legal professionals for entity setup, contracts, and compliance at no cost.
Year-Round Mentorship
Ongoing mentorship from experienced founders and industry professionals.
Continuous Learning
Workshops, webinars, and resources to keep sharpening your entrepreneurial skills.
RIF & UAOF Funding Access
Direct pathways to the Restorative Investment Fund and Urban Array Opportunity Fund.
$3,000 Cash Grants
Every cohort culminates in a pitch competition where entrepreneurs present their ventures to a panel of judges. Winners receive cash grants to fuel their next stage of growth.
Submit your application and join the next cohort.
Complete 16 weeks of hands-on entrepreneurship training.
Present your business to experienced judges and investors.
Top ventures receive $3,000 cash grants to accelerate growth.
Continue receiving support, mentorship, and funding access as alumni.
After Graduation
Alumni Benefits
RST graduates join a growing network of founders with access to funding, mentorship, and community resources.
Restorative Investment Fund
Access capital designed to invest in community-rooted businesses and social enterprises.
Urban Array Opportunity Fund
Micro-grants and follow-on funding for alumni ventures showing traction and community impact.
Ongoing Mentorship
Stay connected with mentors, fellow alumni, and the broader Urban Array ecosystem.
More Than a Program
Urban Array connects entrepreneurs to a broader ecosystem of education, grants, playbooks, and policy advocacy through our Entrepreneur Policy Advocacy Network (EPAN).
Ready to Launch?
Applications are open for the next Running Start cohort. It's free, it's intensive, and it could change everything.
Apply NowSupport the Mission
Fund an Entrepreneur's Dream
Your donation directly funds training, mentorship, and cash grants for BIPOC entrepreneurs building businesses in Chicago's most divested communities. 100% of donations go to community impact.