You’re building a business with big potential—and you know that access to capital can be a game-changer. That’s where we come in.

Applications open the week of August 5 for Xcelerate’s Capital Literacy Peer Mentorship Group—a new, in-person group designed to support women and gender-expansive business owners who are actively exploring ways to finance their growth.

This isn’t a course or an accelerator. It’s a peer-led space for shared learning, goal setting, and real conversations about what it takes to grow—and fund—a business. You’ll be part of a small group of business owners meeting bi-monthly in Portland to build momentum, share resources, and tap into a strong support network.

Meet Your Facilitator

We’re thrilled to have Mia Birk—Xcelerate Coach, advisor, investor, and writer—facilitating this group. Mia brings decades of experience helping female founders launch, grow, lead, and exit their businesses. She’s also the author of Joyride: Pedaling Toward a Healthier Planet and writes the weekly column Fabulous Female Founders, where she shares profiles, insights, and practical advice for women navigating the entrepreneurial journey.

What to Expect:

• A peer group of 6–10 growth-stage business owners
  
• Bi-monthly, in-person sessions facilitated by Mia Birk
  
• A focus on grants, loans, venture capital, crowdfunding, and more
  
• Honest conversations, resource sharing, and goal accountability
  
• Sessions held at VIDA Co-Working in Portland
  
  

Who Is This For:

• Your business is registered in Oregon and operating (1+ year)
  
• You have a product or service on the market (or traction with a go-to-market plan)
  
• You’re projecting $250K+ in revenue this year
  
• You’re building a business designed to scale—with plans to hire, grow your team, and expand your impact.
  
• You’re ready to show up, take action, and invest in this work
  
  

Key Dates:

Applications open: Week of August 5
Deadline to apply: August 22
Selection week: August 25
First session: September 11

Cost

Choose the payment option that works best for you:

• $499 paid in full (save $76)
• $575 in monthly installments (3 payments of $191.67)

Sliding scale available upon request.

Session Schedule (Thursdays at 1PM at VIDA Co-Working):

September 11 · September 25 · October 9 · October 23 · November 6 · November 20

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Funding looks different for everyone. This group is about exploring your options, building your network, and gaining the tools—and confidence—to make your next move.

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Spots are limited. APPLY HERE.