Community Enterprise Accelerator (CEA) Fellowship

Ready to transform your Bronx business?

Cohort 4 applications are closed — thank you to everyone who applied

Cohort 4 Applications Are Closed

Applications closed on September 14, 2026. If you applied, we'll be in touch about next steps — see the timeline below.

Interested in a future cohort? Join our mailing list to hear first when Cohort 5 applications open.

This 9-month fellowship provides $15,000 in grant funding, personalized coaching, and connections to a supportive community of peers, advisors, and resources.

Benefits of Our Competitive Fellowship Program

The CEA was created to support ambitious, under-recognized entrepreneurs who are making a difference in The Bronx. Our program is designed to help you overcome common business challenges, strengthen your operations, and position your business for sustainable growth.

Financial Support

$15,000 in grant capital
Distributed in monthly installments to support your strategic priorities
No equity taken, no repayment required

Personalized Business Development

One-on-one coaching with the Program Director
Strategic planning support and implementation guidance
Documentation of your key systems and processes

Connections

In-person gatherings, including Bronx Brilliance community events
Introductions within the CEA network
Peer collaboration with fellow entrepreneurs facing similar challenges

Alumni Community

Stay connected to the CEA community after the fellowship
Invitations to Bronx Brilliance and other CEA events
Opportunities to share your experience with future cohorts

Cohort 4 Timeline

January – September 2027

Applications: Closed September 14, 2026
Interviews: Sept–Oct 2026
Fellows Announced: November 2026
Onboarding: Kickoff Event / Strategic assessment and planning
Regular Check-ins: Virtual coaching sessions to keep you on track
Gatherings: In-person events, including Bronx Brilliance
Post-Program: Stay connected with the CEA community

Are You Eligible?

Own a for-profit business operating primarily in the Bronx
Have been in business for at least one year
Have generated over $75,000 in total sales
Are committed to growing your business and contributing to The Bronx community

Mission-Focused Selection

This program was created specifically to address historical barriers and systemic inequities faced by Black and Hispanic/Latino entrepreneurs in The Bronx. Aligned with this mission, priority consideration will be given to applicants from these underrepresented communities.

What Past Fellows Say

"The CEA program gave me the structure, support, and connections I needed to take my business to the next level. The grant funding helped me invest in essential equipment, while the coaching helped me develop systems that made our operations more efficient. Most importantly, I'm now part of a community of entrepreneurs who understand my challenges and celebrate my wins."

— Howard Lindsay, Pat's Exotic Beverages (Cohort 2)

"Being part of CEA changed how I approach my business. The strategic planning process helped me clarify my vision and set achievable goals. The monthly events connected me with partners I wouldn't have met otherwise, and the coaching kept me accountable to my priorities."

— Yasiris Ortiz, Spin & Learn Inc (Cohort 2)

Want to Apply for Cohort 5?

Cohort 4 applications are closed. Sign up below and we'll let you know as soon as applications for the next cohort open.

Questions? info@ceabx.org