Learn + Grow
Bootcamps + Accelerator Programs
Benefits for all programs:
- Certificate of Completion
- Mentorship from a Successful Business Owner or High-Level Executive through The DEC Network
- RedBird free coworking during the program and a free day pass for graduates after the program
- Access to Exclusive Membership Events and Workshops
- First Priority for Future Programs (if business stage is applicable)
- Opportunity to pitch for cash prizes
- Post-program connections to exclusive pitch and network opportunities
- All programs are free!
Requirements for all programs:
- Local to Dallas
- No more than 2 absences (orientation and pitch practice required) to be eligible for pitch competition and must follow-up if absent.
- Pitch practice required to be eligble for pitch competition.
- Complete all work as instructed by the facilitator or stated in the syllabus
- Submit a completed business model canvas (an example will be provided)
- Attend at least 2 hours of mentor sessions before pitch practice
- Complete end of program feedback survey (last week of program)
- Complete 90-day & 1-year outcome survey after the program
- Join Slack cohort/alumni private channel
- Over 30 minutes late to any session and leaving a session over 30 minutes early will count as an absence

Big Idea Ideation Stage
(Summer – 3-6 hours weekly for 5 weeks)
BIG iDEA is designed as an intensive 5-week boot camp that amplifies the innovation, determination, and spirit of emerging entrepreneurs in pre-venture stage. This program is specifically for the pre-revenue ideation phase. Your business must be a for-profit idea or legal entity established for 0-1 years to qualify.
Benefits for all programs:
- Certificate of Completion
- Mentorship from a Successful Business Owner or High-Level Executive through The DEC Network
- RedBird free coworking during the program and a free day pass for graduates after the program
- Access to Exclusive Membership Events and Workshops
- First Priority for Future Programs (if business stage is applicable)
- Opportunity to pitch for cash prizes
- Post-program connections to exclusive pitch and network opportunities
- All programs are free!
Requirements for all programs:
- Local to Dallas
- No more than 2 absences (orientation and pitch practice required) to be eligible for pitch competition and must follow-up if absent
- Complete all work as instructed by the facilitator or stated in the syllabus
- Submit a completed business model canvas (an example will be provided)
- Attend at least 2 hours of mentor sessions before pitch practice
- Complete end of program feedback survey (last week of program)
- Complete 90-day & 1-year outcome survey after the program
- Join Slack cohort/alumni private channel
- Over 30 minutes late to any session and leaving a session over 30 minutes early will count as an absence

Your Level Up Stage
(Fall – 2 hours weekly for 11 weeks)
Benefits for all programs:
- Certificate of Completion
- Mentorship from a Successful Business Owner or High-Level Executive through The DEC Network
- RedBird free coworking during the program and a free day pass for graduates after the program
- Access to Exclusive Membership Events and Workshops
- First Priority for Future Programs (if business stage is applicable)
- Opportunity to pitch for cash prizes
- Post-program connections to exclusive pitch and network opportunities
- All programs are free!
Requirements for all programs:
- Local to Dallas
- No more than 2 absences (orientation and pitch practice required) to be eligible for pitch competition and must follow-up if absent
- Complete all work as instructed by the facilitator or stated in the syllabus
- Submit a completed business model canvas (an example will be provided)
- Attend at least 2 hours of mentor sessions before pitch practice
- Complete end of program feedback survey (last week of program)
- Complete 90-day & 1-year outcome survey after the program
- Join Slack cohort/alumni private channel
- Over 30 minutes late to any session and leaving a session over 30 minutes early will count as an absence
The DEC Network's
Mentorship Program

The DEC Network is passionate about the powerful impact of mentorship for entrepreneurs. The DEC Network Mentorship Program recognizes that in order to grow businesses, an entrepreneur needs access to qualified and experienced mentors.
Our mentors generously volunteer their time to share their expertise, offering insights and strategies that help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and accelerate success. Through these connections, we empower small businesses to grow and make a lasting impact.
Criteria
To become a mentor, you must be a leader within the business industry with the expertise to guide mentees in developing and scaling their businesses.
Best For
This program is ideal for entrepreneurs who:
– Have been in business for over a year
– Have a registered legal entity or are in the process of becoming one
FAQs
- Our programs are completely free.
- Membership at our co-working space is not required (but we’d love to have you join us!).
- Matches are made based on your business needs and industry.
Important Update:
Mentee applications open on the first Monday of every month and will close once we reach the maximum number of applications to ensure a focused and personalized mentorship experience.
Unlock Your Potential with The DEC Network’s Mentorship Program
Discover the power of mentorship through our exclusive video mini-series, featuring insights from Gary Kusin and several of our seasoned mentors. Hear firsthand about their experiences and learn why this program is the perfect fit for your personal and professional growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a startup founder, or a business professional, our mentorship program offers invaluable guidance and support to help you succeed. Watch the series and see how The DEC Network’s mentorship can make a difference in your journey.