Project Boardup
The Startup Ladies, in collaboration with the Indy Black Chamber of Commerce and the Indy Rainbow Chamber of Commerce, is launching Project BoardUp to empower diverse founders by building strong advisory boards. We will identify and train 50 entrepreneurs and 100 executives, matching them based on skills, industry, and interests. Our mission is to equip startups and small businesses with the advisory support they need to scale and succeed. Founders and Executives may apply now to be in the first cohort.
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Founders' Problem
Entrepreneurs, especially diverse founders, often lack access to experienced advisors who can provide strategic guidance, industry connections, and support to help scale their businesses. Without advisory boards, many startups struggle to navigate growth challenges effectively. Without help and support founders can feel isolated and businesses can become stuck.
Solution
​Project Boardup equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools to build effective advisory boards. Founders will be trained on the purpose of advisory boards, how to define roles, set expectations, and establish clear goals for their boards. They’ll also learn how to identify, invite, onboard, and train advisory board members who align with their needs. Founders who complete training on time will have the opportunity to be matched with prospective advisory board members.
Opportunity for Executives
Gray hair and wrinkles are not only desirable, they are an advantage. Board members who have skinned their knees plenty and gotten back into the game over and over again have the grit to help you get through challenges. They also have the perspective to know when something is actually big versus when something feels big.
What's in It for You?
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Project Boardup Certification from The Startup Ladies
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Share the wisdom you've gained from your experiences.
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Teach the skills you’ve been honing for decades.
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Invest in women-owned startups.
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Boost the economy.
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Connect to founders, funders and corporate executives.
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Gain clients.
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Build friendships and have fun!
Help Scale the Startup
This skill set is most valuable to most founders. Whenever possible, invite the founder into new rooms where they wouldn’t otherwise get to be. Write thoughtful email introductions to potential investors and customers. Help the founder save time by leveraging your network and platform to connect with someone you and the founder might not know yet.
