Brownsville, TX – Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC), in partnership with LMNTS, announces the launch of the second cohort of the Frontera Leadership Institute. This intensive three-month leadership and entrepreneurship program is tailored for aspiring young leaders in Brownsville, Texas. The program aims to equip participants with critical skills in leadership, product management, and entrepreneurship, empowering them to grow professionally and contribute to their community. Participants will gain hands-on experience, build valuable networks, and receive personalized mentorship to support their entrepreneurial journey.
Frontera Leadership Institute is now launching its second cohort after the success of the first, which saw 15 dedicated fellows complete the program. These participants gained invaluable skills and experiences, and many have already begun applying what they learned to real-world projects within the community. Martin Cuevas, one of the first cohort's fellows, shared, "This program has surrounded me with like-minded people wanting to revitalize the community."
Applications for the second cohort are now open until November 8, 2024, with the program beginning on January 31, 2025, and running until April 25, 2025.
The program follows a hybrid schedule, alternating between in-person and online formats each week. Classes are held on Fridays and Saturdays, providing a structured yet flexible learning environment that allows participants to benefit from both direct mentorship and independent study. This format is designed to help participants balance hands-on collaboration with individual reflection, maximizing their overall learning experience. The hybrid model ensures that even participants with other commitments can fully engage in the program.
Rubén Cantú, Program Director at LMNTS, added, "We're creating the future leaders of tomorrow, today, and you can help us out. The first cohort of 15 fellows showed just how impactful a supportive, collaborative community can be in driving change. Seeing them complete the program and begin revitalizing the community was truly inspiring. I am confident that the second cohort will build on this strong foundation and greatly impact Brownsville.“
Participants will work closely with experienced mentors to develop community-centered projects, fostering practical problem-solving skills and real-world business insights. Through collaborative efforts, participants will not only acquire technical skills but also establish a network of peers and industry professionals that will be instrumental in their personal and professional growth.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: November 8, 2024
- Program Start Date: January 31, 2025
- Program End Date: April 25, 2025
Nathan Burkhart, Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at BCIC, shared his thoughts on the program: "The success of our first cohort speaks volumes about the talent and potential here in Brownsville. Seeing 15 fellows complete the program and already make a difference in our community is inspiring. We are thrilled to launch the second cohort and continue empowering local leaders to drive meaningful change."
Workshops and Information Sessions
Several workshops and information sessions, including Lunch & Learn events, will be held at the eBridge Center in Brownsville to introduce prospective participants to the program and its benefits. The AI workshops are a key component of these sessions, aimed at equipping participants with cutting-edge tools and knowledge to succeed in the modern business environment. AI is increasingly becoming an essential part of many industries, and understanding its applications can provide entrepreneurs with a significant advantage. By learning about AI in Startups, AI for Small Business Growth, AI and Smart Cities, and AI and Cybersecurity, participants will be better prepared to leverage technology for innovation, growth, and community impact.
The following AI workshops are scheduled:
- Wednesday, October 9, 12:00 PM: AI in Startups: From Ideation to Implementation
- Tuesday, October 22, 12:00 PM: AI for Small Business Growth: Practical Applications
- Wednesday, October 30, 12:00 PM: AI and Smart Cities: Transforming Brownsville
For more information about the Frontera Leadership Institute, including application details and upcoming events, visit fronteraleadership.org or contact Rubén Cantú at ruben@lmnts.org.
About the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation
The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) is a Type B economic development corporation. It is dedicated to driving sustainable economic development, enhancing quality of life, fostering innovation, empowering entrepreneurs, supporting strategic projects, and cultivating partnerships that support Brownsville’s thriving and vibrant community. BCIC operates under three core pillars. The first is Community Development, achieved through initiatives like the BIG Grants, which support the revitalization and preservation of Historical Downtown Brownsville, and the Quality of Life Grants, designed to enhance the community’s well-being. These grants fund projects that create welcoming and inclusive spaces, improve amenities, and promote activities that benefit both residents and visitors. The second pillar is Finance Programs, which support local small businesses by providing financial resources to help them start or expand. This, in turn, creates jobs with livable wages, contributing to the overall economic stability of the region. The third pillar is Innovation & Entrepreneurship, where BCIC supports the entrepreneurial journey with incubation, acceleration, and continuous assistance.
For more information visit www.brownsvillecic.com. For media inquiries, please contact Nelson Amaro, Director of Marketing & Communications, at namaro@bcic.us.
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