Step up to the plate and transform your business dreams into reality!
Running a small business is challenging. From finding customers to managing finances, many entrepreneurs struggle to access the resources, mentorship, and funding they need to thrive. That’s why SEED SPOT is excited to announce the return of Startup Spring Training 2025 – a completely free, 5-week program designed to help Arizona entrepreneurs round the bases to business success.
What Is Startup Spring Training?
Startup Spring Training (SST) is an innovative, baseball-themed Arizona event running from March 3 to April 4, 2025. The event guides entrepreneurs through a series of workshops, mentorship sessions, and practical challenges, helping them advance from one “base” to the next while unlocking valuable resources, connections, and even funding opportunities along the way.
Whether you run a food truck, salon, retail shop, or any other small business, SST provides actionable strategies and support tailored to your specific needs. The program is completely free to participate in and offers both virtual and in-person options in English and Spanish, making it accessible to entrepreneurs throughout Arizona.
How to play: Rounding the Bases
Startup Spring Training uses a baseball diamond metaphor to track your progress through the program. Here’s how to play:
First Base: Getting Started
To reach First Base, you’ll register and complete your Player Profile by sharing details about your business and goals. Once approved, you’ll get your own virtual Player Card featured on the SST website—making you an official participant ready to start earning rewards.
Second Base: Training & Learning
To advance to Second Base, attend at least three training workshops of your choice. These expert-led sessions cover everything from marketing and finance to operations and growth strategies. After completing three workshops, you’ll unlock a one-on-one Mentor Session with a business expert of your choice.
Third Base: Mentorship
Once you’ve completed your Mentor Session and submitted the mentor feedback form, you’ll advance to Third Base and receive a free ticket (valued at $199) to the 2-Day Launch Camp on April 3-4, 2025. This intensive workshop provides hands-on guidance to take your business to the next level and prepares you to share your elevator pitch at the SST Closing Event.
Home Base: Bringing It Home
To reach Home Base, you’ll complete your Home Run Submission Form by outlining a brief Business Model Canvas, recording a 30-second elevator pitch video, and write an Investment Intentions statement. Upon completion, you’ll become an official SEED SPOT alumnus and may qualify for a $500 microgrant to invest in your business!
The Real MVP: What You’ll Gain
Participants who complete the program will walk away with:
- Practical Business Skills: Learn actionable strategies you can implement immediately
- Valuable Connections: Network with fellow entrepreneurs and business experts
- Expert Guidance: Receive personalized mentorship from successful business owners
- Public Recognition: Present your business at the Closing Event and get featured on the SST website
- Financial Support: Eligible participants can receive a $500 microgrant (first 100 qualified participants)
- Ongoing Resources: Join the SEED SPOT alumni community for continued support
Microgrants: Supporting Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
What makes SST particularly impactful is its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs who have historically faced barriers to accessing business resources. The program has reserved 100 microgrants of $500 each for eligible participants who complete all program requirements.
These microgrants are specifically intended for Arizona residents who:
- Have experienced barriers in accessing business resources (funding, mentorship, networks)
- Identify as part of an underrepresented group in entrepreneurship
- Complete all program tasks and activities
- Take the Eligibility Quiz
Join the Team: How to Register
Ready to step up to the plate? Here’s how to join Startup Spring Training 2025:
- Visit seedspot.org/sst25
- Click “Register” to start
- Create your Player Profile (takes just 5 minutes)
Once you’re registered, browse the workshop schedule and RSVP to sessions that address your specific business challenges!
The Bottom Line
Startup Spring Training isn’t just another business program—it’s a community-powered movement to strengthen Arizona’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. By providing accessible education, mentorship, and funding to diverse business owners, SST is helping to create a more inclusive and vibrant economy.
If you’re an entrepreneur with big dreams but limited resources, Startup Spring Training 2025 could be the game-changer your business needs. Don’t stay on the sidelines—join us and make this your championship season!
For questions about the program, email startupspringtraining@seedspot.org or visit the comprehensive FAQs on the SST website.
