Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes SEED Network qualified to operate their programs? How will you ensure that grants will be awarded using a fair and equitable system?
Our team has spent 15 cumulative years running programs that amplify BIPOC culture and commerce. This is our 3rd year operating the SEED program with 15 businesses successfully served.
We will also have board members from the different chambers of commerce to vote on who will receive grants.
SF African American Chamber of Commerce
Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, San Francisco
Executive director of Kultivate Labs, SoMa Pilipinas
Japantown Cultural District
Business Owners Seeking Services
Q: I am not BIPOC, but would like to provide my B2B services. Will I be able to join the B2B catalog?
A: We appreciate your interest in uplifting BIPOC businesses, however, our funders are focused on equitable economic recovery with an emphasis on the BIPOC community.
Q: I am not based in San Francisco, but am willing to work remotely. Will I be able to join the network?
A: Glad you were able to find us. Thank you for your interest. However, our funders are focused on equitable economic recovery with an emphasis on the local San Francisco based businesses.
Q: I signed up and can’t wait to get started. What are my next steps as a B2B provider?
A: Upon completion of your application, visit the B2B service catalog page and check the appearance of your B2B profile. Make sure that it is to your liking. If you would like to add additional videos and photos or have an update to request, please email james@kultivatelabs.org.
Q: What is the SLA for B2B providers - ie. Once I sign up, what’s the expectation? What timeline should I be expected to deliver the services?
A: Once the match is approved, you will be expected to complete the outlined services within 90 days, unless agreed to otherwise at the beginning of the project. You will receive half of the total payment at project initiation and half upon completion.
Q: I would love to join your B2B Directory. Are you accepting profiles for all types of services?
A: Yes- if you provide B2B services then you are eligible to join as a provider. If your service falls outside of the categories listed in the application, feel free to mark your service as “Other”
Q: How will the matching process work? Will I get to choose the businesses I provide services for?
A: For every B2C that applies for the program, they will receive an initial consultation call with our team. Our team will then recommend B2B providers to partner with. If a B2C expresses interest in your services, you will be contacted to kick-start the process.
HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION?
CONTACT DESI DANGANAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
desi@kultivatelabs.org
Business Owners Seeking Services
Q: Is there a deadline to apply?
A: Anyone can join the network as long as you are a business owner based in San Francisco. Applications to be matched with a B2B service provider are due by the end of October.
Q: Does your business have to be in San Francisco to participate?
A: Yes, your business must be registered in San Francisco.
Q: Does your business have to be in the Filipino Cultural District to participate?
A: No, businesses are not required to be located in the Filipino Cultural District. However, businesses must be based in San Francisco to apply.
Q: Does my business have to be in a particular industry?
A: We accept B2C’s of all types
Q: Will I have my first choice for a B2B service provider? When will I receive my match?
A: Applying for a match does not guarantee that you will be chosen to receive funding. We’ll be partnering with you to give your business a development plan and we’ll do our best to create mutually beneficial relationships.
Q: What are my next steps after filling out my application?
A: Keep your eyes open for more emails from SEED Network. You can also follow our Instagram page for more announcements.
Q: Can I apply multiple times?
You may, but it may not increase your chances. Upon receipt of your application, our team will reach out to schedule an initial consultation meeting. During this meeting, we will discuss your business’ needs and provide our recommendations for the various providers you can partner with.
Q: Where does SEED Network receive funding for grants?
A: We receive all our funding through a generous grant gifted to us from Wells Fargo Foundation. With the success of the program and high returns of the collaborative partnerships, we may be offered an extension for more grants.
Q: What is SEED Network’s background with working with BIPOC businesses?
A: Our team has extensive background working with BIPOC businesses. SEED Network is rooted with BIPOC leaders, having all of our principals being of BIPOC background and representation from four different cultural chambers of commerce in our advisory board. Moreover, we have been partnering with BIPOC businesses through our SEED Accelerator program since 2018. If you are a BIPOC business, we would love to work with you too :-)
Q: How will I receive access to resources and network opportunities?
A: As a member of the network, you will be subscribed to our mailing list. Through email, you will receive information regarding upcoming networking mixers and workshops. We will also share local resources and small business tips to help you level up your business. Follow our Instagram page for more information about the program, SEED Network Success Stories, and more!
Q: How will the matching process work? Will I get to choose the businesses I provide services for?
A: For every B2C that applies for the program, they will receive an initial consultation call with our team. Our team will then recommend B2B providers to partner with.
If there is a specific B2B service provider that you would like to work with that is not a part of the network, please refer them / invite them to join the network and we can consider it as a possibility.
HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION?
CONTACT DESI DANGANAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
desi@kultivatelabs.org