Small Business Tool Kit

from Valley Business FRONT, Issue 153, June 2021

Business Operations

The Gauntlet program pushes the envelope

The Advancement Foundation is a nonprofit whose mission is advancing people's lives. One program under The Advancement Foundation's umbrella is The Gauntlet, a 10-week business program and competition that guides local entrepreneurs through business development, marketing, customer discovery etc. It features weekly classes and tasks, as well as mentorship with local business people and leaders. I was lucky enough to direct The Gauntlet this year.

The Gauntlet often spurs entrepreneurs to consider how their past experiences play into new business endeavors. One lesson I learned during the 7th round of The Gauntlet: the importance of pushing through fear, or the “terror barrier,” by surrounding yourself with the right people. Each year we push the envelope with new and exciting projects for our entrepreneurs. Directing innovative work can be scary; I have tread through self-doubt and had to fight that worry whispering in my ear more than a few times. With people around me that are demonstrating drive and success, I have been able to walk a more strategic path by working with others through encouragement and shared solutions. Teamwork truly does make the dreamwork.

Hear from some of the 7th Annual Gauntlet Participants:

Since Elder Care Solutions was already operating, I entered The Gauntlet hoping to focus on a plan for growth. While that did happen, so did so much more! When conducting market research, I realized the need to re-brand our work to better fit within our desired markets. The Gauntlet instilled the importance of being open to new directions. Plans are great, but openness and flexibility are essential if you want to be the leader that can snatch up innovative opportunities when you see them!

-Kimberly Whiter, CEO of Elder Care Solutions

“The Gauntlet allowed me to get a crash course in learning the numerous moving parts of business operations while networking with some outstanding local entrepreneurs. Through The Gauntlet my business partner and I were able to get connected to a phenomenal mentor who has helped turn a great idea into a great business. Excited about where we will go from here!”

-Daniel Brooks, Clinical Sports Director at Motivate the Game

The Gauntlet was an incredible experience. I highly encourage anyone interested in starting a business, has a new business, or needs to revamp their business to join this incredible and supportive network. The support I was given helped me solidify my business and motivate me to keep going. It was an absolute joy to participate in this program.