CET’s Square One (SQ1) program offers hands-on training designed to support early-stage and first-time business owners in the St. Louis region who are actively engaged in the development of bioscience, information technology or advanced manufacturing commercial enterprise.

Square One (SQ1) Boot Camp
SQ1 Boot Camp is an in-depth 10-week, 50-hour program that combines formal instruction with hands-on learning, networking and mentoring.

The program’s structured curriculum seeks to instill in entrepreneurs the confidence and skills needed to succeed in high-growth industries. Sector experts lead the bioscience, information technology and advanced manufacturing tracks, respectively.

Participants work on specific deliverables such as a business model canvas, financial statements, investor pitch-deck, 2-minute elevator pitch practice and planning checklist.

Square One (SQ1) Ignite
SQ1 Ignite is a 4-week program created by Center for Emerging Technologies (CET) to help founders quick-start their business model validation process. With emphasis on the business model canvas, this process introduces entrepreneurs to the local ecosystem of support, challenges them to form and test the assumptions about their business idea, connects them with mentors, and helps them identify the crucial next steps in launching their business.