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Overview

CapeTide programs are designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to test ideas, build sustainable business models, and prepare for long-term success. Through a combination of cohort-based learning, advising, access to industry experts, and peer support, participants gain practical tools, clarity, and confidence to move their businesses forward.
 
These no-cost programs are made possible through philanthropic support, partnerships, and volunteers who believe in strengthening Cape Cod’s small business ecosystem.
 
CapeTide’s core offerings include the CapeTide Accelerator (3-week program) and the CapeTide Intensive (12-week program).
 
 

Our Programs

CapeTide Intensive (Fall 2026) - Applications Open Now

Build and grow your business with structure, support, and accountability over 12 weeks.
 

Who this program is for:

The CapeTide Intensive is designed for adults 18+ who are:

  • Ready to commit the time and energy to build a real, working business
  • Moving forward with a new idea and want to turn it into something viable
  • Already running a business and looking to strengthen how it works and grows

What to expect:

Classes are a mix of in-person (mid-Cape) and virtual sessions.

This program requires a serious time commitment (approximately 15+ hours per week), including:

  • Two class sessions per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30–7:30pm)
  • One weekly mentor meeting (60 minutes)
  • Independent work between sessions applying what you learn directly to your business
  • Preparation for presentations, customer conversations, and business milestones throughout the program

You’ll work closely with a dedicated team of three mentors throughout the program. Approximately 3–4 ventures in each cohort will receive cash awards to help accelerate their next stage of growth. Awards are based on participation, progress throughout the program, and final presentation evaluations.

What you'll do in the program:
This is a hands-on program focused on building your business in real time.
 
You will leave with:
  • A clear understanding of your target customer, your value, and how your business fits into the market
  • A more complete and thoughtful plan for how your business operates and makes money
  • A fully developed Business Model Canvas you can use to guide decisions, communicate your model, and continue building
  • A more detailed and confident pitch you will deliver at the capstone
  • Greater clarity, confidence, and momentum to move your business forward
Key dates: 

Application deadline: July 22, 11:59pm
Notification to finalists: August 7
Candidate interviews: August 11-13 (virtual)
Accepted candidates notified: August 18

Onboarding

  • Orientation: Sept. 1, 5:30pm-7:30pm (in-person, mid-Cape)
  • Mentor Match Ups: Sept. 9, 10, 11 (virtual, evening)

Program schedule (Fall 2026)

  • September 14 – December 4, 2026
  • Classes Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30–7:30pm
  • Mix of in-person (mid-Cape) and virtual sessions
  • Approximately 10 in-person evening trips to the mid-Cape area across the full program

Final presentations

  • December 8, 9, or 10, 5:30-8:30pm (in person, mid-Cape). Entrepreneurs assigned 1 night to present.

Final celebration

  • Week of December 14

 Ready to Apply? 

Apply to the CapeTide Fall 2026 Intensive

CapeTide Accelerator (Spring 2027, Session A, Evening Classes)

Build your business from the customer up, in 3 weeks.
 
Who this program is for:
The CapeTide Accelerator is designed for adults 18+ who are:
  • Exploring a new business idea and want to test whether it works
  • In the early stages of launching and looking to strengthen their foundation
  • Reworking or refining an existing business model
  • Ready to get honest feedback from peers and local industry experts
What to expect:

Classes are in-person, mid-Cape.

  • Attend all four class sessions and capstone
  • Use class time actively to build and apply concepts
  • Participate in peer discussion and feedback
  • Prepare and deliver a short capstone presentation at the end of the program
  • No homework required other than preparing for the capstone.
What you’ll do in the program:
This is a workshop style program, so expect to spend at least half of each session applying what you are learning in real time as you build toward your final capstone presentation.
 
You will leave with:
  • A deeper understanding of who your business is really for and why they would choose you
  • A simpler, stronger plan for how your business makes money
  • A completed Lean Canvas you can use to guide decisions and communicate your model
  • A short, focused pitch you will deliver at the capstone
  • More confidence when talking about your business and what makes it work
Key dates:
Application deadline: Friday, Feb. 5, 2027 (Apply early to secure your spot)
Notification of selection: Friday, Feb. 19, 2027
 
Program dates - Session A, Evenings
All sessions meet 5:30–8:30pm, in person, mid-Cape:
Tues, March 2, 2027 — Session 1
Thurs, March 4, 2027 — Session 2
Tues, March 9, 2027 — Session 3
Thurs, March 11, 2027 — Session 4
Tues, March 16, 2027 — Capstone Event (likely 5–7pm) You’ll deliver a short pitch and share your work with the community.
 
Application Process:
Applications for Spring 2027 opening August 2026. 

CapeTide Accelerator (Spring 2027, Session B, Daytime Classes)

Build your business from the customer up, in 3 weeks.
 
Who this program is for:
The CapeTide Accelerator is designed for adults 18+ who are:
  • Exploring a new business idea and want to test whether it works
  • In the early stages of launching and looking to strengthen their foundation
  • Reworking or refining an existing business model
  • Ready to get honest feedback from peers and local industry experts
What to expect:

Classes are in-person, mid-Cape.

  • Attend all four class sessions and capstone
  • Use class time actively to build and apply concepts
  • Participate in peer discussion and feedback
  • Prepare and deliver a short capstone presentation at the end of the program
  • No homework required other than preparing for the capstone.
What you’ll do in the program:
This is a workshop style program, so expect to spend at least half of each session applying what you are learning in real time as you build toward your final capstone presentation.
 
You will leave with:
  • A deeper understanding of who your business is really for and why they would choose you
  • A simpler, stronger plan for how your business makes money
  • A completed Lean Canvas you can use to guide decisions and communicate your model
  • A short, focused pitch you will deliver at the capstone
  • More confidence when talking about your business and what makes it work
Key dates:
Application deadline: Friday, April 9, 2027 (Apply early to secure your spot)
Notification of selection: Friday, April 23, 2027
 
Program dates - Session B, Daytime
All sessions meet 10am–1pm, in person, mid-Cape:
Tues, May 11, 2027 — Session 1
Thurs, May 13, 2027 — Session 2
Tues, May 18, 2027 — Session 3
Thurs, May 20, 2027 — Session 4
Tues, May 25, 2027 — Capstone Event (likely 11am-1pm) You’ll deliver a short pitch and share your work with the community.
 
Application Process:
Applications for Spring 2027 opening August 2026.

FAQ's

Is this really a no-cost program?

Yes. CapeTide programming is offered at no cost to selected participants.

We believe financial barriers shouldn’t prevent talented entrepreneurs from accessing high-quality support. Offering this program at no cost is directly aligned with CapeTide’s mission to expand access to entrepreneurial education, resources, and community.

This program is made possible through philanthropic support, partnerships, and volunteers who believe in strengthening Cape Cod’s small business ecosystem.

Is the CapeTide Accelerator the same as the CapeTide Intensive?

No. The Accelerator is a shorter, high-impact, 3-week experience. The Intensive is a longer, 12-week program with deeper support including a dedicated team of mentors.

Does completing the Accelerator guarantee entry into the Intensive?

No, participants must apply separately for each program.

Do I need a formal business entity?

No. We welcome entrepreneurs at different stages; selection is based on readiness and fit.

I still have questions, who can I talk to?

Please reach out to Christin Marshall and she'll be happy to help you figure out fit, timing, or anything you're unsure about.

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