Business Advancement for Small Enterprises (BASE)

Are you a Boston Entrepreneur who wants to start or grow a business but you face difficult circumstances? Then this is the place for you!

Business Advancement for Small Enterprises (BASE) is a 10-month entrepreneurship program offering training, mentorship, and resources to help aspiring Boston area entrepreneurs in economically challenged areas launch and grow successful businesses.

Launching in early 2026, the Business Advancement for Small Enterprises Program (BASE @ Suffolk) provides a dynamic network of faculty, mentors, and students to support entrepreneurs. BASE empowers aspiring new entrepreneurs to turn their business dreams into reality.

Applications for the 2026 program are due December 15, 2025. See form below.

This program starts with a six-week bootcamp where entrepreneurs will learn core business fundamentals, including business planning, marketing, financial literacy, operations, and access to funding. The bootcamp provides a step-by-step roadmap for launching a business by those ready to start their entrepreneurial journey.

After the bootcamp, entrepreneurs are paired with experienced local business leaders, Suffolk alumni, and subject matter experts who provide mentorship. This network of support helps entrepreneurs navigate real-world challenges, refine their business strategies, and build social capital.

In the final phase of the program, BASE entrepreneurs work directly with students who will help implement the lessons learned during the incubation and mentorship phases, such as developing a marketing plan, modeling financials, etc.

Suffolk Students pose together in a conference room

Whether you're completely new to entrepreneurship, have a business idea but don't know where to begin, or have started a business and need more support, BASE breaks down the complex entrepreneurship process into manageable and actionable steps.

We focus on practical, proven strategies that you can implement immediately. You will learn from experienced entrepreneurs and business professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by emerging business owners.

BASE harnesses Suffolk University’s strategic and tactical business expertise to cultivate emerging entrepreneurs throughout the Boston area. BASE is built on an exciting collaboration between Suffolk University's Sawyer Business School and Notre Dame University, and includes local partners who provide access to business expertise and funding resources.

Program Details

Faced setbacks? Ready for a fresh start? Suffolk University's BASE Program is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs like you.

  • A six-week business bootcamp that meets on Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (January through March)
  • Eight hours of personal mentoring (April through July)
  • Hands-on student consulting (October through December)
  • Workbook included

Learn from Suffolk University faculty and industry subject matter experts who understand real-world business challenges.

Anyone aged 18 or older with a business idea or existing venture. We especially welcome those who've faced challenges.

  • The application window for this year's program is open
    Apply using our form below
  • The program fee is $750
    Fee waivers are available for anyone who requests one, details are in the application form

BASE @ SUFFOLK

For Boston Entrepreneurs in Difficult Circumstances Who Want to Start or Grow a Business

 
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