Junto is a program I launched in 2004 to support entrepreneurs in pursuit of their dreams.  It is designed to identify entrepreneurs with the greatest probabilities of success. Junto provides experiences and training; opportunities for financing business launches; high-level networking and mentoring.  It is a community designed to mitigate the structural risks of entrepreneurship. Junto provides this opportunity to all entrepreneurs but with a focus on the younger demographic, many who are just completing their college education. The program is perfect for those looking to learn more about entrepreneurship and expand their networks.

Entrepreneurship can solve problems, create value, unlock human potential, improve lives and foster independence and confidence.  However, it is a career choice with its own risks.  Sometimes results can include financial losses, loneliness, public failure and marital stress.  These are the risks of entrepreneurship that are not so celebrated in the popular press.  By addressing some fundamental characteristics of typical entrepreneurship, the Junto approach hopes to mitigate some of these risks.

Junto has continued to progress and develop since its launch in 2004.  There have been 7 classes, 30 Junto Partners, over 125 participants and several successful business launches.  Many of those young companies are growing today and a number of the Junto Partners are becoming business leaders in their respective industries and professions.  The curriculum has been fine tuned to help these young entrepreneurs learn a great deal about themselves and entrepreneurship.  In partnership with Alan Hall, Founder of Marketstar and Managing Director at Mercato Partners, the program has been able to continue and influence many young entrepreneurs.  In 2009, in addition to the program's focus on grooming younger entrepreneurs, the community will be invited to attend the evening classes. We hope you will join us.

--Greg Warnock--