Launch1000 Program to Return in 2022 with Bilingual Cohort

The Westchester County Office of Economic Development announced this week that Launch1000, an innovative, fully remote, self-paced program designed to turn concepts and ideas into business plans and startups, will return in 2022.

New to the Program this year is the addition of a dual language cohort (English/Spanish) with a minimum of 100 seats available. All Launch1000 programming will be available in both English and Spanish, and bilingual participants will be supported by bilingual coaches and mentors. There will be workshops just for the dual language cohorts, as well as workshops combining the English-only and the bilingual Launchers.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “Following the success of our inaugural Launch1000 program, we were inspired to give more residents the opportunity to get their ideas off the ground and turn them into de-risked businesses and nonprofits. We are excited to add a dual language cohort to the program and make this opportunity accessible to more residents.”

Westchester County Director of Economic Development Bridget Gibbons said: “The Launch1000 program is an investment in growing and diversifying Westchester’s small business community. This program provides education, mentorship and a supportive community to help residents take their ideas from concept to completion. And, it places a critical focus on de-risking to help participants bring viable and sustainable ventures to market.”

Born out of a global pandemic, Launch1000 offers Westchester County residents the opportunity to gain critical business knowledge, connect with mentors and help their idea gain traction. In 2021, 218 residents completed the program and launched a diverse range of small businesses and nonprofits. The program is led by entrepreneurial expert Pam Hoelzle, who has coached tens of thousands of early-stage entrepreneurs.