In collaboration with Rising Tide Capital
Wisdom to BELIEVE partners with Rising Tide Capital — a non-profit founded in 2004 by Alfa Demmellash and Alex Forrester whose mission is to transform lives and communities through entrepreneurship — to bring proven business and financing programs to our community.
Together we offer three programs:
A foundational course in business planning, budgeting, marketing, and operations for aspiring and early-stage owners.
Knowledge and tools to become financing-ready — supporting the journey from financial readiness to accessing the capital needed to thrive.
One-on-one guidance for existing businesses ready to scale revenue, systems, and staffing.
Community Business Academy
The Community Business Academy equips business-minded individuals with a strong idea and a desire to own a small for-profit business. No prior business experience or degree is required to get started.
Designed for individuals with a strong business idea and a desire to own a small for-profit business.
No business experience or degree is required to participate.
Classes are taught in both English and Spanish.
Not for those certain about forming a non-profit; we can provide referrals to partner organizations for non-profit guidance.
Credit to Capital
Credit to Capital provides entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools to become financing-ready, supporting their journey from financial readiness to accessing the capital needed to thrive.
Business Acceleration Services
Business Acceleration Services provide one-on-one guidance and ongoing support for existing businesses ready to grow — helping entrepreneurs turn momentum into sustainable expansion.
A structured 90-day roadmap to set goals, prioritize actions, and accelerate business momentum.
Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry partners to grow your circle of support.
Gain exposure to new customer bases and channels to expand your reach and revenue.
Stay informed with regular updates, resources, and opportunities delivered straight to your inbox.
Personalized guidance from a business coach to tackle challenges and build a plan for growth.
Continuous learning through monthly sessions designed to sharpen skills and keep your business moving forward.
Who should apply?
Preference goes to those actively seeking financing within six months, but all are welcome to apply. Open to Community Business Academy graduates and entrepreneurs with active businesses. Scholarships available.
Explore what the process entails from start to finish.
Learn how to submit a strong, successful application.
Preference for those pursuing financing within six months.
Every motivated entrepreneur is encouraged to apply.
Cohorts enrolling now
Live sessions + self-paced coursework
Virtual · Zoom
Financing Foundations · Level 1 → Credit to Capital Level 2 (12 weeks + full loan access)
