Founders Rising
Founders Rising is a 12-week capacity building program designed to help aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs to develop a sustainable business plan and launch their company. Through expert-led learning sessions, one-on-one business coaching, and peer collaboration, founders gain the tools, insights, and mindset needed to build resilient and profitable businesses.
Due to the rapidly growing numbers of displaced federal workers and contractors, in December 2025 MWBC piloted a cohort serving aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs in Montgomery, Prince George’s, Frederick and Howard Counties.
Founders Rising: Second Act
Maryland leads the nation in federal job losses, with more than 15,100 jobs gone in 2025. As the job market tightens, many are turning to entrepreneurship as a path forward, yet too often individuals launch businesses without the foundational business knowledge needed to succeed.
Founders Rising fills this gap by providing:
- A quick-start and hands-on guide to starting a business in Maryland
- Step-by-step business planning led by local experts
- A supportive community of peers and business coaches
- The opportunity to participate in a business plan pitch
Who Should Apply
MWBC is seeking highly motivated individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Negatively impacted by federal layoffs, RIFs, unplanned retirement, or contracting and/or funding decisions
- Resident of Montgomery, Frederick, Howard, or Prince George’s County, MD
- Collaborative and learning mindset
- For aspiring entrepreneurs:
- Well-developed or partially developed business idea
- Committed to founding a business within 30 days of completion of the cohort
- For early-stage entrepreneurs:
- In business for less than 3 years
- Annual revenue of less than $200,000
Application Period
An upcoming Founders Rising cohort is planned for Summer 2026. Please complete the interest form below to receive updates about upcoming Founders Rising cohorts.
Program Outcomes
By the end of the 12-week program, participants can expect to:
- Learn from local experts and business advisors
- Use assignments to develop their business concept
- Actively engage in peer discussions and community building
- Develop a sound business plan
- Be prepared to register their business
Cohort Commitment
To be successful, selected participants should be prepared to:
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- Actively participate in twelve 2-hour in-person and virtual workshops (in-person workshops will take place in Rockville, MD)
- Participate in at least one-on-one business counseling sessions with GrowthWheel-certified business advisors
- Complete assignments that contribute to building their business plans
Founders Rising applications are now closed.
Please fill out the interest form below to receive updates about the next application period. By submitting your information, you give permission to be added to our newsletter mailing list, and to receive Founders Rising and other program updates via newsletter.