Turning your Ideas into Opportunities through Entrepreneurship

The Housing Entrepreneurship Redevelopment Opportunities (H.E.R.O.) Program is a newly launched initiative of Clay Street Community, designed to empower under-resourced adults from Clay Street and greater Annapolis through entrepreneurship education, community development, and economic empowerment.

This free hybrid training includes training courses, mentorship, and access to business development resources, along with business support. The H.E.R.O. program will help participants cultivate the skills, mindset, and confidence needed to start and grow small or micro enterprises. 

The second segment of H.E.R.O. program will commence in February 2026 and with a focus on business plan development. Participants will spend five weeks virtually developing their business with a business plan presentation scheduled for week six of the program and serving as the capstone presentations.  Participants from the first segment will be invited to return along with any individuals who have business ideas, side hustles, or hobbies that are currently generating sales. 

The program serves minorities, disabled individuals, veterans, and other underrepresented groups, with the goal of building pathways to economic self-sufficiency and fostering sustainable community revitalization.

Program Offerings Include:

  • Entrepreneurship Workshops: Covering business ideation, customer discovery, marketing, finance, and legal issues.

  • Mentorship and Coaching: Personalized one-on-one sessions with experienced business advisors.

  • Business Development Resources: Access to planning tools, market research, and financial literacy education.

  • Networking Opportunities: Connecting participants with local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community partners.

Participants Will Learn The Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship:

  • Building a business model

  • Branding, marketing, and sales strategies

  • Financial literacy 

  • Legal basics and team-building skills

  • Pitching your business to investors and mentors

Program Highlights:

  • Guest speakers from the business community

  • One-on-one mentorship

  • A business pitch opportunity 

  • Networking with local entrepreneurs and leaders

Program Starts: February 2026
Location: VIRTUAL
Cost: FREE

Together, we aim to develop and launch sustainable businesses, strengthen economic prospects, build stronger families, and fuel a thriving Clay Street.

Apply Now