Cornerstone Alliance Entrepreneurial Services Begins
Business Plan Certified graduates from our first cohort at ELEVATE Entrepreneurship
Cornerstone Alliance Entrepreneurial Services Begins 2026 Business Plan Certified Program with January Orientation
As entrepreneurs across Southwest Michigan set goals and priorities for the year ahead, Cornerstone Alliance Entrepreneurial Services is accepting registrations for its 2026 Business Plan Certified program, a six-month certification designed to help entrepreneurs build clear, actionable, and capital-ready business plans.
The program begins with an orientation on January 21, 2026, and runs through October, concluding with graduation at Cornerstone Alliance’s annual ELEVATE Entrepreneurship event on October 1.
Business Plan Certified supports entrepreneurs at various stages, from early-stage ideas to established businesses planning for growth. Participants engage in structured coursework, receive individualized business counseling, and develop a comprehensive business plan aligned with their long-term goals.
The program builds on the success of its inaugural cohort, which graduated in late 2025. Sixteen local entrepreneurs completed the program and earned their Business Plan Certification, reflecting Cornerstone Alliance’s continued commitment to small business development across the region.
“Starting the year with a plan makes a real difference for entrepreneurs,” said Brandy Jaquez, Managing Director of Entrepreneurial Services at Cornerstone Alliance. “Through our 2025 cohort, we saw 16 businesses across the tri-county area either launch or take their next step toward growth. Business Plan Certified is about creating real momentum for entrepreneurs and for the communities they serve.”
The 2026 Business Plan Certified program includes the following schedule:
- Orientation: January 21
- Track 1 – Business Idea Development and Planning: February 11
- Track 2 – Growth Strategy: February 18
- Market Research and Analysis: March 11
- Financial Plan: April 8
- Management and Operations: May 6
- Marketing and Sales Strategy: June 10
- Pitch Rehearsal: August 19
- Business Plan Presentation: September 9
- Graduation at ELEVATE: October 1
Throughout the program, participants also receive one-on-one business counseling, pitch opportunities with local investors and business leaders, and six months of post-program mentorship to support implementation and growth.
Enrollment is currently open, and space is limited. Entrepreneurs interested in participating can contact Chrissy Meek, Senior Manager of Entrepreneurial Services, at cmeek@cstonealliance.org.
About Cornerstone Alliance
Cornerstone Alliance is Berrien County’s premier economic development organization, dedicated to driving growth, investment, and job creation throughout the region. With a focus on supporting businesses at every stage, Cornerstone Alliance serves as a catalyst for sustainable economic development in Southwest Michigan.
