Oklahoma City has become a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs and small businesses, thanks to a variety of programs and organizations dedicated to fostering economic growth and innovation. Here are some key resources available to local business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs:
Entrepreneurs’ Organization of Oklahoma City (EO OKC)
EO OKC is a peer-to-peer network that provides entrepreneurs with opportunities for learning, growth, and connection. Members benefit from executive learning sessions, forums, and events designed to accelerate business success and personal development.
NEOKCR Small Business Accelerator (NSBA)
The NSBA offers a 10-week program aimed at accelerating Northeast Oklahoma City’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. It supports socially and economically disadvantaged founders by providing education, training, and access to capital, as well as connecting participants with industry experts and an expanded business network.
Cultivate Venture Accelerator
Cultivate focuses on nurturing and multiplying a movement of entrepreneurs leading redemptive ventures. The program emphasizes connection, content, and capital, providing fellows with mentorship, learning opportunities, and access to various forms of capital to help their ventures flourish.
Progress OKC
Progress OKC is a nonprofit Community Development Corporation dedicated to supporting and revitalizing Oklahoma City communities. They offer programs and resources to help entrepreneurs and small businesses access affordable capital and strengthen their core business practices.
The Verge OKC
The Verge is a state-certified incubator program that connects the entrepreneurial community with resources, strategies, and investment opportunities. Their new 27,000+ square-foot location provides space for businesses to grow and thrive, offering a supportive environment for startups and established companies alike.
i2E’s E3 Program
The E3 Program by i2E is a six-week startup bootcamp that helps entrepreneurs explore product/market fit for new business concepts and assists existing businesses in scaling and finding new customers. Since 2015, E3 has completed over 50 cohorts with more than 200 companies, providing detailed discussions and one-on-one feedback from experts.
Project 3810’s Founder Studio
Project 3810 offers the Founder Studio, designed for entrepreneurs at every stage, from early idea exploration to operational growth. The program combines education, mentorship, business advising, and peer community to support real business progress, including clubs like Founder Club and ThinkBiz Club, as well as programs like Think Tank and Pitch Clinic.
Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s Small Business Assistance
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Team helps small businesses maximize their potential by identifying programs, strategies, and other resources tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs. They also offer training and workforce development programs through Oklahoma’s CareerTech System and Training for Industry Program (TIP).
These resources collectively contribute to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Oklahoma City, empowering business owners to succeed and drive economic growth in the region.