WHAT IS THE ENTREPRENEUR BOOTCAMP AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM?
The Entrepreneur Bootcamp and Certification Program presented by the National Entrepreneurs Association and Comerica Bank is a 9 week virtual course that will help you understand entrepreneurship from A to Z, avoid common pitfalls, accelerate your growth and achieve your business goals faster than you thought possible. Here's what you will take away from this training:
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Understand entrepreneurship on a macro & micro level
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Overcome mental barriers preventing your breakthrough
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Develop greater confidence and leaderships skills
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Understand and manage financial records and cash flow
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Identify new funding sources and opportunities
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Learn proven marketing strategies to obtain qualified clients
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Connect with a community of success minded professionals
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Become an NEA Certified Entrepreneur
Presented by National Entrepreneurs Association and Comerica Bank
These industry leaders have teamed up to bring you an exciting new entrepreneur training program like no other. Modules are taught by experienced entrepreneurs, college professors and banking professionals with real world experience. The National Entrepreneurs Association is a 501c3 non-profit corporation that helps individuals build 6 and 7 figure businesses through quality networking events and training programs. Comerica Bank, one of the largest financial services companies in the U.S., focuses on relationships and helping people and businesses be successful.
IN THIS TRAINING WE WILL COVER
WHY BECOME A CERTIFIED ENTREPRENEUR?
Our certification serves as assurance to those you do business with, that you are proficient in your knowledge of entrepreneurship. It demonstrates that you've been vetted and that you've taken the time to learn all aspects of running a business, not just your niche. Graduates of the program will receive an official certificate and seal from the National Entrepreneurs Association and will be listed on our website as a "Certified Entrepreneur." Apply now and get the edge you need to pursue your dreams and beat the odds. Here are a few more highlights of what certification can do for you.
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Arms you with the skills you need to feel confident about running your business.
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Helps to establish trust with prospects who are not familiar with your work.
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Gives your clients confidence they are working with a knowledgeable professional.
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Can help bankers to feel more secure when making lending decisions.
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Demonstrates to investors that you understand entrepreneurship.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS, DATES AND TIMES
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This training is open to the public.
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You must currently be an entrepreneur to participate.
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All participants must complete an application.
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You must be accepted into the program to attend.
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You must be able to attend all 9 sessions.
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A limit of 40 students will be admitted per cohort.
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Your business must be based in the United States.
Orientation is September 25, 2023! Classes Start October 3, 2023!
Training sessions will be held on Mondays from 6pm to 8pm ET on Zoom.
*Thanks to the support of our sponsors this training is free however there
is a $100 administration fee to be invoiced upon acceptance.
A Few Testimonials from Previous Cohorts
"My participation in the NEA Comerica Entrepreneur Bootcamp and Certification Program was an amazing and life-changing experience. It is truly a well-planned comprehensive program..." Angela T. Moore, Health/Fitness Coach and Founder of The Body Principle
"This experience has completely changed the way I view my business and how I will proceed in business going forward. If I am being honest, this cohort was just what I needed and it came at the right time. This has been a WONDERFUL experience and I wouldn't trade these 9 weeks for anything else." Nifiah Reid Sanders, Founder of LIVN Truth
"This particular boot camp and certification program, because it’s blended with the expertise of NEA and Comerica and some truly highly qualified presenters, it is really applicable for those who are starting up as well as those of us who are more well-established business owners. The NEA Comerica Entrepreneurship Certification program is a dream come true." Tisha Hammond, The Small Business Cheerleader
"I am so thankful that I was recommended to be a part of Cohort 2. I can honestly say not only am I trained to be a successful entrepreneur, but a wise one. I immediately started applying these principles as I went through the course and was able to secure a $2000 speaking engagement." Dr. David Banks, Founder of Noble Success Strategic Group & Graduate of Cohort 2.
“I want to express my deep gratitude and appreciation. Thank you for creating the boot camp training program. It was truly an amazing experience. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to be a part of the training. I can't thank you enough for this terrific program. The benefits of my participation in the NEA Boot Camp training are invaluable and long-term. I am just beginning to apply this information. I'm very excited about what I learned from attending..." Joan Woods Rashid, Founder of Pivotal Philanthropic Consulting LLC.
“The NEA Comerica Entrepreneur Bootcamp was EVERYTHING! The training through this illustrious program was top tier. As an entrepreneur I learned how to read and understand my financial statements. I was able to streamline my social media pages. Through this course I was able to focus my marketing and my mindset. I will be recommending this program to my team members.” Omega Auntie Mothersill, Founder of Enhance U Enterprises LLC and Graduate of Cohort 2.
"Thank you for an opportunity for entrepreneurs that is life changing for the entrepreneur and for others who will benefit from the power of understanding business beyond the basics. NEA is unlike any other training. The belief, vision, and commitment along with your standard of high-quality guest presenters are top notch for a stellar entrepreneurial learning experience. NEA far exceeded my expectations. You truly over delivered." Lisa Yvette Jones, Founder of iCARE Leadership, LLC
"Thank you for such a comprehensive program, I have truly been stretched beyond my comfort zone. I see this opportunity of being part of the NEA Bootcamp Cohort 1 to expand as a person and entrepreneur. It has been a refreshing journey of growth." James Mack, Founder Mack Success Group
"Just a great team of intelligent, business-minded people. I’m watching and learning. Michael Cheatham gave two very solid presentations. Great Bootcamp so far! I have not been disappointed one moment." Jacqueline McCollum, CEO and Founder of Global Hues
“I am very honored to have been a part of the NEA Comerica Entrepreneur Bootcamp and Certification Program. The program gives me better perspective on my entrepreneurial journey. The community and NEA were all amazing. The energy in the class was so amazing. The education and knowledge are priceless! Cherisse Curtis, Founder of The Furry Pets and Co. and Graduate of Cohort 3.
MEET THE SPEAKERS AND TRAINERS
ZaLonya Allen, PhD
Entrepreneur and
Psychology Professor
Dr. ZaLonya Allen is President and CEO of the National Entrepreneurs Association. She has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years. As a Leadership Speaker and Trainer she has delivered talks for organizations throughout the country and coaches professionals in a variety of industries. Dr. Allen has been the recipient of numerous awards. She earned a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology a M.A. in Industrial Relations and a Doctorate degree in Psychology.
Nick Mattar, MBA
Associate Director of Marketing Mike Ilitch School of Business
Nick Mattar is active in Michigan's digital marketing community, wearing many hats and constantly working to stay on top of new trends. He teaches digital marketing at the Wayne State Ilitch School of Business and is the director of marketing at Wayne State's Graduate School. Additionally, he is the founder and CEO of Digital Detroit, working with businesses to upskill their marketing teams. Nick is in the process of publishing his first textbook on content marketing, to be completed in 2022.
Janice Cardwell, PhD, MBA
CEO of Conceivers Leadership Development Group
Dr. Cardwell is former Vice President/Campus Director for University of Phoenix-Detroit and a strong advocate for entrepreneurs. She has 30 years experience in adult learning and higher education. As CEO of Conceivers LLC, her firm provides Empowerment Coaching, Executive Coaching, and Dissertation Coaching services. She brings a wealth of experience having held numerous board positions. Dr. Cardwell earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Education from Capella University.
Dawn Cone, PhD
Management Consultant and Executive Coach
Dr. Dawn Cone is a Management Consultant and Executive Coach with 25 years of experience specializing in individual, team and organizational effectiveness. Her areas of expertise include individual, team and organizational assessment, culture change, leadership and team development, and bringing organizational vision to life. As Founder/CEO of DSC Consulting Solutions, Dawn’s clients have spanned across several industries. She speaks across the country.
William Honaker, JD
Intellectual Property Attorney and Author
William Honaker provides keynote presentations and training seminars on Intellectual Property Law for business owners. He is the author of the book, "Turn Your Ideas Into Gold - A Business Owner's Guide to Intellectual Property". As a former US Patent and Trademark Examiner, with more than 35 years of experience, he has extensive knowledge of all aspects of patent, trademark, trade secret and copyright matters, including litigation in a broad range of industries.As head of Dickinson Wright’s Intellectual Property Practice, He oversaw more than 50 lawyers across 12 offices that handled cases both nationally and internationally. He has a proprietary client communication and project management system, The Harmony System™, that recognizes, collects and protects your IP.
Dr. Geneva Williams
Leadership Strategist
Dr. Geneva Speaks, LLC
Geneva Williams is CEO of Dr. Geneva Speaks, LLC and creator of The Vibrant Life Blueprint©, which helps entrepreneurs and executives achieve extraordinary success and happiness. After a 40+ year career as an award-winning, nonprofit leader, raising millions for business and community causes, Dr. Geneva reinvented herself as an entrepreneur, author, and international speaker. Crain’s cites her as one of Detroit’s most influential women, NAWBO named her a leading businesswoman, and she received the Urban League’s Distinguished Warrior award for lifetime achievement. Dr. Geneva is the Vice Chair of the Governor’s Michigan Women’s Commission, a commercial television actress, and host of Ignite2impact on iHeart Radio.
Tina Williams, MBA
Founder of QT
Business Solutions
Tina Williams, BAA, MBA, is the Founder & COO of QT Business Solutions. She is a former Banker with Chase and Fifth Third Banks. She is also a Board Certified Master Financial Professional and Chartered Asset Manager. She started the business while working full time at Chase Bank. During her time at the bank she noticed that the majority of entrepreneurs and small business owners who applied for financing were unprepared. They had no business plans and many of them didn’t fully understand the banks’ approval criteria for business financing. This resulted in many of them being denied for business financing. This is how she came up with the idea to start QT Business Solutions, created to help entrepreneurs and small business owners properly prepare for business financing.
Michael Cheatham, MBA
Bank Center Management
Comerica Bank
Michael Cheatham resides in Detroit and was educated in the Detroit public school system. He attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he received a B.A. in Sociology with an emphasis in Business. He later earned an M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix. While at U of M, he served in the Army Reserve. After college, Michael entered Comerica Bank’s Branch Management Training program. He spent most of his 25+ year career in the banking center system, but also worked for several years in Corporate Contributions and the CRA External Affairs department. He currently manages a Banking Center in metro-Detroit, where he serves as a trusted advisor, dedicated to helping customers be more successful. He serves on the board of directors for several non-profits and community organizations.
Matthew Papendorf
North America OEM Brand Manager Dell Security
Matthew Papendorf has been the North America OEM Brand Manager for Dell Security for the past 7 years. Partnering with the internal product management teams, he’s established a winning track record for improving knowledge and sales of endpoint security at Dell. Dell began with the belief that everybody should have easy access to the best technology anywhere in the world. Today, Dell Technologies is instrumental in changing the digital landscape the world over. Dell is among the world’s leading technology companies helping to transform people’s lives with extraordinary capabilities. From hybrid cloud solutions to high-performance computing to ambitious social impact and sustainability initiatives, what Dell does impacts everyone, everywhere.
Jessie Metzler
President and Owner of
All Social Jessie
Jessie Metzler is a one-of-a-kind social media strategist whose special skills lie in helping business owners and professionals be right on top of things with their social media presence – whether that is via training, direct management of their various social platforms – or both. Jessie dove in head first into the disruptive world of social media marketing in 2012 where she took over the reins of a marketing and public relations firms’ efforts with their book of clients. There she discovered the true power of social media and why businesses must stand out on digital platforms where the world now shares, shop and sell. Today she manages a diverse book of clients ranging from tech to medical.
Van Allen
Entrepreneur
Speaker and Trainer
Van Allen is a lifelong entrepreneur. He began his career in investing over 25 years ago. His primary investments include real estate and blue chip stocks as well as numerous entrepreneurial ventures. He is an award winning motivational speaker and former cable talk show host. He has received numerous speaking awards including first place in the District 28 World Championship of Public Speaking Contest for Toastmasters International. His signature presentation “Are You a Winner” encourages audiences to step out of their comfort zone to reach their true potential. He attended Henry Ford Community College and Wayne State University. He is a Master NLP Practitioner and founder of Van Allen Productions which specializes in video & audio projects.
Tamiko White
Fashion Entrepreneur and Media Personality
Tamiko White is a renowned figure in the world of fashion. With a career spanning over 25 years, she is the founder of White Noise Consulting and the creator of #NOWTrending. Tamiko's expertise lies in marketing and branding and she has collaborated with an impressive roster of clients, both in front of and behind the camera, to help them establish indelible and profitable brands. Throughout her professional journey, Tamiko has held diverse roles in the fashion industry including working as a model, actress, wholesale showroom owner, tv style segment host, adjunct professor at FIT and global marketing director. Her skill set encompasses marketing, branding, creative direction and production. Currently, Tamiko consults brands, creative directs and produces content while lending her fashion expertise to television and media outlets.
WIN A BRAND NEW DELL LAPTOP COMPUTER!
Participants who complete all 9 modules will be entered into a drawing to win prizes to help their business thrive including a brand new Dell Laptop Computer. Sponsored by Dell Technologies.
