B-Start is a pre-accelerator program to help launch for-profit innovation-driven businesses in Bloomington, Indiana.

We welcome and encourage women, minorities, veterans, and other groups to apply!

Driven Entrepreneurs

B-Start is designed for entrepreneurs who want to take their creative business idea through a comprehensive refining process to build a foundation for acceleration. Selected candidates will begin the B-Start program in September and complete in March.

EXPERIENCED Mentors

Startups will be paired with a mentor or coach based on the individualized needs of each startup. B-Start will also arrange consultations with local experts in business plan development, law, intellectual property, marketing, human resources, pitch development, sales and lead generation, among others.

Networking Opportunities

Throughout the program startups will have opportunities to network with other participating startups, B-Start partners, Bloomington Economic Development Corporation members, potential investors and other community members.

Stipend & Pitch Prizes

Startups will have the chance to earn cash prizes up based on various scoring criteria during a program-ending pitch competition.