Every business has a next step.
This form helps us identify yours—and guide you to the program or resources that best support where you are right now.
The Advancement Foundation (TAF) supports entrepreneurs across the region through structured programs, expert guidance, and access to capital and connections. For more than 15 years, we’ve worked alongside founders at a wide range of stages—from early ideas to growing, revenue-generating companies—to help them build strong, sustainable businesses.
Our Core Programs
The Gauntlet
The Gauntlet is a 10-week, cohort-based program for entrepreneurs building or strengthening Main Street and early-stage businesses. It’s designed for founders who want to clarify their business strategy, put essential systems in place, and make real progress through consistent action. Participants should expect to actively apply what they learn each week and leave with a clearer direction, stronger fundamentals, and momentum to keep building.
The Quest
The Quest is a parallel pathway for innovation-driven, scalable, or tech-enabled ventures. This program is best suited for founders pursuing growth beyond a single local market, exploring new business models, or preparing for regional or national scale. Quest participants engage in deeper strategic work around growth, validation, and execution, with expectations aligned to the demands of high-growth ventures.
Additional Support
Beyond Gauntlet and Quest, TAF connects entrepreneurs to a broader ecosystem of support, including grants and loans, investors, mentors, industry expertise, strategic partnerships, and targeted services such as the 360° Business Acceleration Audit and fractional operations support. TAF also operates business acceleration spaces, manufacturing and maker spaces, and business incubators.
What This Form Does
This short survey helps us understand your business, your current stage, and your goals. Your responses allow us to recommend the most appropriate programs or resources and determine whether Gauntlet or Quest is a good fit at this time.
If you are invited to participate, you’ll receive a registration link with next steps, including how to make your payment.
We encourage you to answer the following questions thoughtfully and honestly—this helps ensure the strongest possible match and a productive experience if you move forward.
All of your answers are kept confidential.
