Maybe you've been thinking about taking that next step to start your own business, but you don't know where or how to begin.

Firebelly University is looking for 5 socially conscious entrepreneurs-in-the-making. We want people who are looking for real world experience, who want to build connections and gain resources a traditional MBA program wouldn't provide. We want people who wear many hats. Designers, writers, developers, project managers, accountants, illustrators, photographers, videographers, musicians and everyone in between. If you can circle 2 or 3 of these and have a superhuman drive to make a difference in the world, you’re probably a perfect fit.

In the Chicago offices of Firebelly Design, you can join forces with 4 other do-gooders for only $6000. And guess what–you get every penny of it back and then some.

Firebelly University founder Dawn Hancock started her first business in 1999 with $6,000 by cashing in her 401k. Your $6,000 acts as seed money for the program. Every month you’ll get $1,000 plus 10% of each month’s profit as a stipend. Firebelly U provides all equipment, software + supplies. And although housing is not included, we’re happy to suggest neighborhoods or help you figure out public transit if you’re new to the city.

The proof is in the pudding. And since we love pudding and the fact that people don't always believe the way we run Firebelly Design—with a focus on good design, for clients we believe in, that supports a nonprofit and makes decisions in a socially conscious way—is possible, we decided to start our own army of good.

We want to continue to make the world a better place and we need your help! Getting more socially conscious businesses to take root across the city, state, country or world (dream big!) will make our communities healthier, stronger + more vibrant.

We also want to help you change your own life too. Spend 9 months working to make society better, how could you not be affected? We’ll help you translate your passion into a real, sustainable business!