BizUp Palm Springs Ignites Entrepreneurial Dreams With Coaching, Grants, and Community

Palm Springs is no stranger to innovation, and one local program is at the forefront of nurturing the city’s next generation of entrepreneurs.

BizUp Palm Springs, a program run by local nonprofit Caravanserai, is gearing up for its next cohort. The program has supported hundreds of aspiring business owners over the past seven years, offering a unique combination of business education, personalized coaching, and access to microgrants — a model that has helped small businesses thrive not just in Palm Springs but throughout the Coachella Valley.

Their motto is simple: never say no to a business.

One such success story is April Rojas, owner of Sage Waxing Lounge. After losing her job during the pandemic, Rojas turned a difficult moment into an opportunity to launch her own venture. She credits BizUp with giving her the tools — and the confidence — to do it.

"I'm the first in my immediate family to open my own business," said Rojas. "BizUp condensed everything I needed to know into a short business 101 course. They walked me through how to make a business plan, create a budget, and understand financing."

But BizUp offers more than just training. According to Mihai Patru, CEO of Caravanserai, the program has distributed millions in microgrants to help entrepreneurs get off the ground.

"Providing educational support is the first step, but access to capital — that’s what really makes a difference," said Patru.

The 10-week program includes classes and one-on-one coaching that doesn’t end when the program does. That ongoing mentorship, Rojas says, has been invaluable. Just as vital is the community of like-minded entrepreneurs that continues to support one another well after graduation.

"It’s more than just a business course. It’s a support system. I met clients, mentors, and even people I could vent to when things got tough," said Rojas.

The City of Palm Springs has partnered with the program, offering additional support. In a statement, the mayor emphasized the city’s belief that everyone — regardless of background — deserves access to tools and mentorship to pursue their dreams.

The next cohort of BizUp is still accepting applications through Friday as Palm Springs continues to grow, programs like BizUp ensure that local businesses — and the people behind them — have the tools they need to grow right along with it.