The Kauffman FastTrac Program, facilitated by the WT Enterprise Center, is designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners build a strong foundation for success. Participants will gain the tools and insights needed to develop a business plan, understand their market, and take actionable steps toward launching or growing their business. This program provides budding entrepreneurs in our rural communities with the resources, training and mentorship needed for a thriving business!
Thanks to the combined effort of the WT Enterprise Center, Wheeler Chamber of Commerce, America's SBDC at WTAMU and Wheeler Economic Development Corporation this 10-week business course is FREE to participate!
Participants will refine their business models, learn financial management strategies, and gain insights into long-term growth—all aimed at strengthening the local economy. WIN! WIN!
FastTrac is a 10-week interactive program from April 1st to June 5th, with meetings held every Tuesday and Thursday in a hybrid format (in-person and online). The program is free of cost to participants and open to entrepreneurs across all industries, regardless of experience. Participants will complete coursework, watch videos, research and engage with experienced mentors throughout the program.
At the end of the program, participants will have the opportunity to pitch their business plan to a panel of judges for a chance to win startup funding. Beyond individual business success, this initiative supports local economic growth by attracting investment, creating jobs, and increasing the economic opportunities within the Wheeler community.
"Bringing the FastTrac program to Wheeler is important to me because it provides an opportunity for relationship-building on multiple levels. Whether you are an entrepreneur, community leader, or business professional, these relationships allow us to grow as people. I believe this is how we are designed as people – to be in commUNITY with each other and build up those around us!"
---------Kristen Moudy, Executive Director for Wheeler Economic Development & Wheeler Chamber of Commerce
Participants who complete in the course will be able to participate in a Pitch Event to win cash prizes! That means after all your hard work you could win the foundational money to get your idea started on the right track financially.
If you like to sponsor the PITCH EVENT, please email kristen@wheelertexas.org for more details!
Q&A about Kauffman FastTrac in Wheeler
WHO CAN JOIN THE COURSE?
Anyone looking to start a business, has started a business but would like guidance OR if you are those looking to exit/sell your existing business.
WHAT COMMITMENT DO I NEED TO MAKE TO JOIN?
You and other entrepreneurs will meet every Tuesday (zoom) and Thursday (in person) evening from 3pm - 5pm from April 1st through June 5th. At the end, you will pitch your business to a panel of judges! (Successful completion of the program will include 24 scheduled class hours. In addition, participants will spend upwards of 2 hours of research and course work for ever hour of class)
DO I HAVE TO LIVE IN WHEELER, TEXAS TO JOIN?
You do not have to live in Wheeler, but we would ask that you try to make the commitment to be at the in-person meetings when we have them.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I MISS A COURSE?
We will do our best to work with you when you miss a course. Don’t let that hold you back, if you are willing and able to do the work and want to succeed, we will help you!
OTHER RESOURCES FOR ANY BUSINESS!
Meet our WTSDBC Rural Business Consultant, Annie Sandifer who is a small business owner with Sweet Jean's Pantry, selling the BEST mustard in Texas! She frequents Wheeler often to support our Chamber of Commerce. She was evena vendor at our 2024 Small Business Saturday Event with Panhandle Handmade Market. Annie is friendly and a very knowledgeable business owner. She has a variety of resources to help you, no matter where you are at in your business journey.
Another great resource available to our local businesses or commUNITY members is Leading EDG, which offers a one-on-one business counseling session with business professional , Spencer McElhannon. Spencer is available in person on the 2nd Friday of each month!
Please contact Kristen Moudy at 806-367-0084 to schedule a meeting or if you have questions about becoming a Chamber Member.
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