About Us

Barclays & Launcher

Our History

Since 2016, Barclays has provided more than $1 million to support Launcher, which is an initiative of the West End Neighborhood House, a Delaware-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency and reach and maintain their maximum potential.

“The Launcher Entrepreneurship Program at West End Neighborhood House provides the critical support entrepreneurs need to pursue their dreams of becoming small business owners,” said Nancy Parnella, director of business cards, Barclays. “Barclays is proud to support our community and provide business owners of all sizes the resources they need to succeed.”

Launcher Graduates

New Businesses

Jobs Created/Retained

Accepting applications for 2023

Spring 2023
Application Deadline: 12/5/22
Class Dates: 1/17/23 – 4/6/23

Fall 2023
Application Deadline:
7/19/23
Class Dates: 8/28/23 – 11/16/23

Apply in English

Aplicar en español

How does the program work?

Goal of Training:

To develop a strong understanding of small business management
To complete a solid business and financial plan

Type of Training:

Classes, workshops and one-on-one sessions taught by experienced small business instructors
Class size of 8-12 students ensures all participants receive personal attention
Topics covered include operations management, marketing, financial management and more
Course content and pace are customized to entrepreneurs’ needs
Culturally sensitive entrepreneur training

Course Outline:

Attributes of Success
Planning for Business
The Market- Customers and Competition
Marketing and Branding
Web-Based Marketing
Credit and Financing
Management and Operations
Alumni Speaker/Competition Reporting
Financial Planning: Part 1
Financial Planning: Part 2
Are You Ready?
Graduation!

Training Schedule:

Classes are held one evening per week for 2 hours.
Locations are chosen geographically: Wilmington, Claymont and Dover.
Training consists of eleven classroom sessions and ten hours of individual consultation.

Program Cost:

Tuition for the LAUNCHER program is valued at $2,500. Thanks to the generous support of Barclays, we are able to waive tuition cost for students accepted into the LAUNCHER program. The only cost to you will be a materials fee of $100 dollars. Extra manuals for partnerships is $40.
Fees must be paid before first class session.