Program helps historically under-resourced women in Metro Detroit grow their businesses

(DETROIT, Mich., Aug. 2023)–BasBlue, a nonprofit creating pathways and opening doors for women and non-binary individuals by fostering connections and discovery through a diverse and inclusive community, is excited to announce applications have opened once again for the Zero-to-One Entrepreneurial Fellowship. The six-month program provides mentorship, coaching, financial planning, networking, and capital support to assist women entrepreneurs across Southeast Michigan grow their businesses.

“BasBlue’s core values of uplifting women and non-binary individuals and amplifying opportunities for them to succeed are woven into every aspect of the Zero-to-One Fellowship,” said Co-Founder Nancy Tellem. “We’re committed to giving our fellows the tools and resources they need to overcome barriers and identify a clear path for growth and success.” 

The Zero-to-One Fellowship aims to level the playing field by empowering historically underrepresented and under-resourced women and non-binary founders. To be accepted in the program, applicants must provide information about their business, what they hope to gain from the program, and overall goals for their small businesses.

“Empowering women goes beyond offering a seat at the table; it means creating a space where the profound impact of women’s voices, perspectives, and contributions are at the forefront of conversations,” said BasBlue Co-Founder Natacha Hildebrand. “The Zero-to-One Fellowship helps fellows pave the way for a future where every woman stands tall and confidently leads with strength and grace.”

Several mentors will participate in the fellowship to guide the entrepreneurs throughout their time in the program. Mentors include:

Entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in applying for the Zero-to-One Fellowship are encouraged to attend one of three informational sessions. Applicants will have the opportunity to ask questions and hear from fellows from the previous cohort. Informational sessions include: 

• 9/7 Info session 1- In person (BasBlue)

• 9/14 Info session 2 – Virtual

“It’s no secret that women, especially women of color and non-binary individuals, face significant obstacles. At BasBlue, we are working intentionally to close that gap,” said BasBlue Foundation Director Lisa Whitmore Davis. “The Zero-to-One Fellowship is an incredible opportunity for local entrepreneurs to receive impactful resources and mentorship. We are thrilled to offer this program to the community once again and look forward to welcoming a new group of inspiring fellows.”

BasBlue recently wrapped up its successful inaugural Zero-to-One Fellowship that included businesses ranging from indigenous jewelry to a landscape and urban design planning design studio. 

“In my journey through the Zero-to-One Fellowship, I discovered the art of confidence and embracing challenges, even those that might appear daunting or intimidating,” said Brittany Turner, a former Zero-to-One fellow and owner of Cheyanne Symone.”My fears were rooted in the unknown or the unfamiliar. However, the fellowship equipped me with a multitude of tools to overcome those fears and empower me to conquer those fears, and embark fearlessly on a journey of continuous learning and self-discovery.”

Every year, BasBlue hosts a Gala to raise funds to sustain programs like the Zero-to-One Entrepreneurial Fellowship, Trailblazer-in-Residence Scholarship and Founders + Fund(Her)s Pitch Day. These programs are a critical part of BasBlue’s efforts to close the funding gap for under-resourced entrepreneurs, small business owners and community changemakers. This year’s Gala is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 19. To purchase tickets, please visit www.basblueus.com/gala.

To learn more about BasBlue’s Zero-to-One Entrepreneurial Fellowship, please visit www.basblueus.com/fellowship.

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About BasBlue:
BasBlue is committed to advancing women and non-binary individuals’ economic mobility and leadership skills by providing community connection, educational programming, and resources. Established in October 2021 as a mission-driven nonprofit, BasBlue creates pathways and collaborates with local organizations on initiatives that lead to change in the community, while serving as a welcoming space for more than 700 members. Through the Foundation, BasBlue eradicates barriers by offering access to programming, mentorship, and business resources to under-represented and under-resourced women and non-binary individuals in Detroit and Southeast Michigan.