Current & aspiring entrepreneurs sought for “Launch Wake Forest”

The Town of Wake Forest, Wake Forest Rotary Club, and Wake Tech Community College are inviting local business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for “Launch Wake Forest,” a proven program designed to help small business owners start, grow, and thrive. The online application is available through Friday, April 22, at https://launchwakeforest.com(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab).

To qualify, students must meet the following requirements:

• Must own or plan to start a business in Wake Forest, NC
• Ability to supply product or service that can generate profit
• Be interviewed by selection committee
• Complete in-person business training once a week for 10 weeks
• Develop business plan and budget
• Willingness to meet and/or communicate regularly with assigned business mentor
• Ability to repay third-party micro-loans (if approved), per the loan agreement.
• Current Rotarians are ineligible for LaunchWakeForest funding.

The Fall 2025 session begins Tuesday, Aug. 26, and will feature hands-on training, business coaching, networking opportunities, and resources that empower participants to take their business to the next level. Over the course of 10 weeks, selected participants will:

• Learn from seasoned business mentors and industry experts who provide practical, real-world advice.
• Build a solid business plan with clear financial projections and actionable growth strategies.
• Gain insight into marketing, branding, customer acquisition, and online presence.
• Understand cash flow, bookkeeping, and how to secure funding to scale operations.
• Connect with other local entrepreneurs, forming relationships that lead to collaborations and referrals.
• Receive ongoing support beyond graduation through the program’s alumni network and community resources.

“Launch Wake Forest is more than a class - it’s an investment in our small business community,” said Wake Forest Rotary Club President Mark Scarbourgh. “Graduates leave with not only a stronger business plan, but also a network of supporters rooting for their success.”

Classes will be offered at Wake Electric, 100 S. Franklin St., with meals provided each night by the Wake Forest Rotary Club. For more information, visit https://launchwakeforest.com(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) or contact Program Administrator Brad Walker at 919-745-0377 or wakeforestrotaryclub@gmail.com.