Circles of Seven, or C7TM is a business mentorship program. that is based on the belief that we best learn from each other. By bringing small business owners together and providing a mentor, small businesses can create, grow and prosper.
It also is based on the fact that many small businesses often need somewhere to turn to for basic questions. Many feel alone in their journey through the entrepreneurship wilderness. However, others have gone before them, and their peers often face the same challenges. A C7TM group can provide answers and a support system.
The application deadline is Sunday, September 21st, at midnight.
A C7TM group is open to small businesses that have been in operation for at least 12 months before the date they apply. They must have an organized structure (LLC) and have a product or service they sell. The participant must be either the owner or the highest-level manager who can make decisions about the business operations and finances, and must be solely responsible for the business’s outcome.
Participation is not limited by the size of the business or the years of experience; however, more seasoned business owners may find the discussions rudimentary. If this is the case, you may consider being a Mentor. To inquire about mentoring, contact Ann Flad-Jesion at ann@progresslakeshore.org.
C7TM is designed to provide assistance and mentoring to ongoing businesses. If you are a start-up or just considering a business idea, this program is not for you, inquire about one of our Entrepreneurial Boot Camps or Entrepreneurial Training Program instead. This is not for you if you participate in a multi-level sales organization.
The discussion at each C7TM meeting varies, but the common thread is the topic for the month. Meetings last, at a minimum, 90 minutes. Before each meeting participants will receive information on the topic of the month. There will also be some reading assignments, videos, or other information to digest. Participants are expected to be prepared and read and engage with the material.
During the meeting, there will be time to discuss the topic for the month and anything the resources may have sparked. The group is then encouraged to broach any subjects they are currently dealing with.
The C7TM meeting is less about homework assignments and more about talking, learning, and supporting each other. Think of it as a hyper-intense networking event that supports your business needs.
The cohort runs from September to June, with no meetings held in December.
At the beginning of the season, the entire cohort will come together in a kickoff event and receive their mentor assignments. At that meeting, mentors and participants will receive a standard set of guidelines on how the cohort will run. Mentors will have already received their training.
At the end of the season, all participants will gather for a graduation event. Each participant will receive a certificate of achievement, signifying their successful completion of the program. Friends, family, and mentors will come together to celebrate the perseverance and dedication of each protege, while also recognizing the valuable contributions of the mentors.
To be part of the program, a one-time fee of $180 is invoiced. The investment in your future is due before the kickoff event.
The place and time of your meeting is one of the first things your circle will decide as a group. Many groups meet at the mentors’ place of business. Others might meet in a public library meeting room, or Progress Lakeshore’s conference room.
The Details:
To be considered for the C7 program, you must complete an application to ensure that you are a suitable fit for a C7 group. If you are accepted, you will receive an email containing further details and an invoice for the program fee of $180.
Have questions? Email Ann Flad-Jesion at ann@progresslakeshore.org for more information.
2025-2026 Circles of Seven Cohort, Sponsored By:
