Start:ME is a 14-week business accelerator focused on identifying and developing aspiring micro-entrepreneurs with a focus on localized economic development. The Start:ME model emphasizes the development of practicable knowledge, access to entrepreneurial networks, and an opportunity to earn early-stage funding to start an enterprise. Weekly sessions focus on developing critical entrepreneurial skills through the presentation of material and supplementing this material with mentoring from experienced businesspeople from the community. Upon completion of the program, entrepreneurs have the opportunity to acquire venture funds for their enterprises. The focus of the program is to promote economic development by connecting aspiring and promising entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, skills, and networks that exist in Spartanburg.