The Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Program

The Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Program empowers impact-driven, underserved entrepreneurs who are creating environmental products and services. Through this no cost program, we support both nonprofit and for-profit entrepreneurs in the across the Denver metro area. The comprehensive program provides expert-led training, dedicated mentorship, and long-term Alumni support to impact-driven entrepreneurs.

Business & Leadership Workshops

Participate in 16 weeks of entrepreneurship and leadership training led by practitioners with deep expertise in the sustainability field, including Impact Series workshops with leading thought leaders and experts.

Financial Tools & Resources

Access practical financial tools, frameworks, and workshops designed to strengthen your venture’s financial foundation. Benefit from the expertise of practitioners and Watson Institute’s broader network of specialists supporting entrepreneurs at every stage.

Basecamps: Creating Lasting Impact

Design and lead a comprehensive 1-day entrepreneurship training program (Basecamp) for earlier-stage environmental sustainability entrepreneurs in your community.

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Pitch Training & In-person Summit

Master the art of compelling storytelling through dedicated pitch coaching. Present your venture’s growth and community impact to an audience of entrepreneurs, potential investors, corporate partners, and leaders at Summit, a live pitching and networking event.

Watch Summit Highlights →

Coaching for Impact

In partnership with JPMorganChase

Access JPMorganChase’s Coaching for Impact program—enterprise-level coaching and resources for your business. Fellows receive dedicated workshops, direct access to the Coaching for Impact team, and an opportunity for continued support beyond the Program.

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Key Dates

• Program: August 8–November 18, 2026
• In-Person Immersive: August 8–13, 2026 | In Person | Denver, CO
  • Saturday, August 8 (10:00 AM–6:00 PM MT)
  • Week 1: 8/10–8/13 (Monday–Thursday) | Virtual
• Summit: Tuesday, November 18, 2026 | In Person | Denver, CO

Here is who we are looking for

Who you are:

You are an impact-driven entrepreneur building an environmental product or service. You are committed to creating positive, measurable change in your community and advancing environmental sustainability through your work.

Your Business Stage:

Your business or organization has been operating for 1-5 years with fewer than 10 employees. You have engaged customers, measurable results, and have secured or earned some funding through grants, investments, donations, or revenue, and you’re ready to grow to the next level. All legal business structures welcome: for-profit, nonprofit, social enterprise, etc.

Your Commitment:

You must be able to commit to the full program, including the in-person Immersive and weekly workshops held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00–11:00 AM MT. We prioritize participants who are fully committed to active engagement throughout the entire program. The program’s success depends on building a strong community where all participants are enthusiastic about both learning and sharing their experiences with others.

Where You Work:

You are located in and creating impact in the Denver metro area. Your work directly benefits local communities through environmental products and services.

What You Are Looking For:

You seek environmental sustainability entrepreneurship training led by practioners with deep expertise, a supportive community for feedback, a broad mentor network to enhance your leadership, and the opportunity to multiply your impact by leading a Basecamp training program that supports earlier-stage entrepreneurs in your community. You bring an entrepreneurial spirit and growth mindset to both scaling your own venture and empowering others.

Demographics:

Adults 18 or older.

Application Process

1. Submit Your Application: Candidates complete the online application in approximately 30 minutes. Submit by the priority deadline of June 21, 2026, for early consideration. Applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis after that until all spots are filled.
2. Application Review: Our Admissions Committee evaluates applications to identify innovative entrepreneurs with scalable ventures and strong potential for impact. Early applicants receive priority consideration.
3. Interview: Selected candidates will be invited to a 20-minute Zoom interview to share their entrepreneurial journey, discuss their venture’s vision for growth, and explore how the Program aligns with their goals.
4. Final Selection & Enrollment: Final decisions will be announced by July 13, 2026. Accepted applicants must confirm their enrollment to secure their spot. The program begins on August 8, 2026.

Learn More: https://watson.is/environmental-sustainability-entrepreneurship-program/