Oklahoma Grassroots Rural and Ag Business Accelerators program launches rural development masterclass series

The Oklahoma Grassroots Rural and Ag Business Accelerators program has announced the launch of In the Weeds, a rural development masterclass program for entrepreneurs and business owners across Oklahoma.

In the Weeds is designed for rural entrepreneurs looking to hone and refine their businesses, their innovation pitches and learn more about the numerous Oklahoma-based business resources at their fingertips.

"The Oklahoma Grassroots Rural and Ag Business Accelerators program is honored to be one of the U.S. Treasury's State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Technical Assistance providers," said Amarie Bartel, OKFB rural economic development coordinator. "Through this program, our team is catalyzed to share more state and federal capital opportunities for rural small businesses. In the Weeds allows us to meet rural small business owners where they are with a wealth of funding opportunities - and the tools to attain said opportunities - to close financial gaps."

A series of four classes held across the state in eight rural locations throughout 2025 will provide rural entrepreneurs with cutting-edge business resources and the opportunity to develop skills, learn about opportunities and develop business connections with Oklahoma-based program partners.

In the Weeds will feature four unique sessions, including:

Venture Forward: How to Pitch

• Fairview and Pryor: January 8
• Alva and Drumright: January 29
• Duncan and Wilburton: February 19
• Elk City and Ada: March 12

Crafting your Business Blueprint with LivePlan

• Fairview and Pryor: April 2
• Alva and Drumright: April 23
• Duncan and Wilburton: May 14
• Elk City and Ada: June 4

Unlocking Lending Opportunities with TEDC: Interactive SSBCI Loan Application Workshop

• Fairview and Pryor: June 25
• Alva and Drumright: July 16
• Duncan and Wilburton: August 6
• Elk City and Ada: August 27

Custom Solutions for Market-Specific Needs

• Fairview and Pryor: September 17
• Alva and Drumright: October 8
• Duncan and Wilburton: October 29
• Elk City and Ada: November 19

Participants may attend the program most convenient for them. All classes will be held from 5:30 - 7 p.m. and are free of charge. Dinner will be provided.

To learn more about the In the Weeds program and register for a masterclass, visit okfb.news/intheweeds.