2026 DFA Small Business Mentorship Scholarship Application

Truist Foundation has granted funding to Heritage Foundation of Williamson County 3 full scholarships for qualified businesses located within 1 mile of Franklin’s Public Square, with business coach/ mentor CYNTHIA WHITFIELD-STORY. The mentorship includes private 1:1 coaching from Jan–June 2026, Guidance tailored to your business goals, Tools to grow sustainably (without burning out), A strategic plan—and a coach to walk it with you. Apply below by November 15th to be considered for this 2026 program.

2026 DFA Small Business Mentorship Scholarship Application

Presented by the Downtown Franklin Association, Funded by the Truist Foundation (Applications due by Nov 15) – ELIGIBILITY: 1) Located within 1 mile of Franklin’s Public Square 2) In business for at least 1 year 3) Committed to 6 months of growth and mentorship 4) Active member of the Downtown Franklin Association | SELECTION CRITERIA: 1) Readiness for Mentorship – openness to coaching, feedback, and growth 2) Business Stability and Stage – established operations with room to improve 3) Growth Potential – clear vision and goals for the next 1–3 years 4) Community Connection – active engagement in the Franklin business ecosystem 5) Alignment with DFA’s Mission – contribution to downtown Franklin’s vitality 6) Potential for Tangible Outcomes – ability to implement what’s learned and measure progress

What is your DFA membership status?(Required)
Please confirm the following(Required)
Name(Required)
Business Address(Required)
#of Employees (including you)(Required)
What stage best describes your business today?(Required)
What are your biggest challenges right now? (Check all that apply)(Required)
Can you commit to monthly 1:1 mentorship sessions from January to June 2026?(Required)
Examples: creating local jobs, offering services that enhance downtown, collaborating with other businesses, sourcing locally, or improving the downtown experience.
Examples: local partner/sponsor, DFA member, festivals, volunteering, or not yet involved but interested in connecting more
Would you be willing to share your story or experience publicly if selected?(Required)
I have reviewed and am interested in working with Cynthia Whitfield-Story as my business mentor for this program (https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-whitfield-story/).(Required)
By submitting this application, I confirm that the information provided is true to the best of my knowledge, and I understand that selection is competitive and limited to three qualified applicants.(Required)