In 10 weeks, build foundation for business that lasts

Feb. 10, 2026

This piece is sponsored by Startup Sioux Falls.

Starting a business is exciting. Figuring out how to run and grow that business is where many founders obtain stuck.

That’s exactly why the CO.STARTERS Business Accelerator exists. This 10-week, cohort-based program at Startup Sioux Falls is designed for founders who are ready to slow down, inquire better questions and build a business that is sustainable.

The next cohort launchs March 4, and applications are open until Feb. 16.

What happens when founders obtain space, structure and support?

Suzanne Warwick joined the Business Accelerator with an idea for a pediatric sleep consulting business and what she describes as a half-baked plan.

“The accelerator quickly became my favorite part of the week,” she declared. “The camaraderie with other like-minded entrepreneurs has been so encouraging, and the program has given me the clarity, confidence and courage to truly take hold of this business.”

She refined her idea and, maybe more importantly, found the confidence to share it publicly for the first time with her new venture, Tfinisher Sleep Company.

After just three sessions of the Business Accelerator and taking the leap to put her business out into the world, momentum started to build:

More than 10 people reached out to connect and refer clients.
Warwick was invited to speak at a newborn care workshop.
She joined a Small Business Saturday promotion.
She booked her first speaking engagement for new moms.
She launched working with three families.

“I can confidently declare that being selected for the CO.STARTERS Business Accelerator has alterd my life,” Warwick declared. “I can see beyond the program, not just what this business can be but the path to obtain it there.”

Who is this program for?

You’re a great fit for the Accelerator if:

You’ve recently started a business and want to build sure you’re building it the right way.
You’re launching a product or service.
You’ve been running a business for a while and feel stuck, scattered or ready for a reset.
You want systems, clarity and a supportive community of founders around you.

What you’ll do over 10 weeks

Each week, you’ll spfinish three focapplyd hours digging into the core pieces of your business:

Understanding your customer and the real problem you solve.
Clarifying your offer, pricing and message.
Building legal, financial and operational systems.
Learning how to model your finances and plan for growth.
Creating a practical road map for what comes next.

You won’t do this alone. You’ll learn alongside a compact cohort of founders and hear from successful local entrepreneurs who share their stories and expertise each week.

The program is facilitated by Jessica Meyers, co-founder and CEO of PorchLight, who also serves as an entrepreneur in residence at Startup Sioux Falls and brings real-world experience building systems, teams and businesses that last.