Nevada City, Calif. — February 12, 2026 — Sierra Commons will launch the next cohort of its Business Ignitor entrepreneurship course March 10 at the Nevada County Campus of Sierra College, introducing a modernized curriculum, expanded digital learning tools, and a new pathway to small-business capital.
The 12-session course will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Registration is open at https://www.sierracommons.org/business-ignitor. The program concludes with a public graduation party and business showcase.
Originally launched in 2010, the Business Ignitor has supported more than 300 graduates across a range of industries. The course is optimized for individuals in the ideation phase through approximately three years in business, particularly those preparing for growth or expansion. Participants engage in structured exercises designed to strengthen decision-making, clarify next steps, and build confidence in early strategic choices.
“You’ll come away completely inspired, rejuvenated, motivated and focused on what you want to do.” – Dalrymple MacAlpin, 2023 Business Ignitor Graduate
The updated format reflects shifts in technology, financing, and the operational realities facing rural business owners.
New elements include additional guest instructors, integration of artificial intelligence methodologies throughout the curriculum, and expanded use of the Sierra Commons Learning Hub, an online platform that provides recorded sessions, practical tools, and supplemental resources between classes. The course remains live and in person at Sierra College, with hybrid participation options available. Participants move through the program as a cohort, building peer relationships and accountability that extend beyond the classroom.
One session will be led by Ken Krugler, founder of AI for Community, a national initiative focused on helping organizations responsibly integrate artificial intelligence into mission-driven work. Krugler will introduce practical frameworks for using AI tools in small business operations, marketing, and strategic decision-making.
Another session will be taught by longtime Business Ignitor instructor Michael Mapes, a Nevada County–born business attorney and founder of Mapes Legal. Mapes will guide participants through key legal considerations, including entity formation, contracts, and risk management for small businesses.
“Early legal decisions shape the trajectory of a business,” Mapes said. “Understanding entity structure, contractual obligations and liability issues from the outset helps entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes and build on solid ground.”
Sierra Commons has also established a partnership with TMC Capital, a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution, or CDFI. CDFIs are mission-driven lenders certified by the U.S. Department of the Treasury that provide financing to entrepreneurs and communities that may not qualify for traditional bank loans.
Under the new partnership, participants who complete the Business Ignitor course become eligible to apply for small-loan financing through TMC Capital. Completion of the course is required for consideration under this pathway, creating a direct connection between structured business preparation and access to responsible capital.
“Bringing the Business Ignitor to Sierra College strengthens the connection between education and economic opportunity,” said Karen Davis O’Hara, Ph.D., Executive Dean of the Nevada County Campus. “This program equips aspiring entrepreneurs with practical skills, modern tools and access to experienced mentors. We are proud to host a course that directly supports local business formation and workforce development in our region.”
Robert Trent, founder and executive director of Sierra Commons, will continue to facilitate the course.
“The fundamentals of entrepreneurship — clarity, discipline, and accountability — remain constant,” Trent said. “What has changed are the tools and financing landscape. By integrating AI literacy, structured online learning and responsible capital access, we are preparing local entrepreneurs for today’s economy while helping them gain clarity and confidence in their next phase of growth.”
While the curriculum has been modernized, the program retains its human-centered approach, emphasizing peer learning, applied exercises, and individualized action planning. Participants also receive access to free one-on-one advising through Sierra Commons’ partnership with the Sierra Small Business Development Center.
Founded in 2009, Sierra Commons is a Nevada City–based nonprofit that strengthens entrepreneurship to support resilient local economies through business education, advising and community collaboration.
For more information, visit https://www.sierracommons.org or contact Sierra Commons at 530-265-8443.