New Entrepreneurs Graduate from Ponce Bank Small Business Boot Camp

Core Insights - Ponce Bank recently celebrated the graduates of its Small Business Bootcamps in the Bronx, Manhattan, and New Jersey, aimed at providing essential business planning and growth tools to local entrepreneurs [14] - The program has successfully engaged over 1,100 participants since its launch in 2020, highlighting its impact on underserved communities [5] Award Recipients - The Bronx award recipients include: - Jennifer Silvestre, Nasir + Idie Kids, received $10,000 for apparel and fashion for children with special needs [2] - Melissa Groneveldt, Yummy Tummy, received $7,500 for gluten-free, sugar-free sweets [2] - Saraciea Fennell, The Bronx is Reading, received $5,000 for promoting literacy [2] - The Manhattan and New Jersey award recipients include: - Wioletta Sudol, The Helper Bears, LLC, received $10,000 for tech education for older adults [3] - Emely Martinez, Roxanna, received $7,500 for affordable fashion [3] - Chere Montgomery, WealthStorm Consults, received $5,000 for business consulting [3] Community Impact - Ponce Bank emphasizes the importance of small businesses in providing jobs and cultural diversity, supporting community leaders through educational initiatives [4] - The collaboration with The Business Outreach Center Network aims to improve economic prospects for traditionally underserved groups [5][16] Program Structure - The Small Business Bootcamp consists of a four-session program covering essential topics such as small business banking, accounting principles, and business planning [6] - Fiserv provided subject matter experts to enhance the educational experience for participants [9] Company Background - Ponce Bank, founded in 1960, focuses on improving financial outcomes for minority and immigrant communities, with $2.8 billion in assets and a strong presence in the New York Metro area [10] - Fiserv, a Fortune 500 company, is a global leader in payments and financial technology, recognized for its commitment to innovation and excellence [11]