Four individuals posing in formal attire. — The first cohort and current Bold Path Fellows in Birmingham, left to right, Myles Taylor, Stephanie Stewart, Kym’Bria Green and Jevon Tatum. (ECMC Group)

Aspiring Birmingham entrepreneurs have yet another opportunity to jumpstart their business ideas thanks to a fellowship funded by the Educational Credit Management Corporation (ECMC) Group.

The “Bold Path Fellowship,” supported by the ECMC Group Education Impact Fund and the ECMC Foundation, grants $120,000 over two years to help low-income founders get their businesses off the ground.

The first cohort of Bold Path Fellows was selected in spring 2025, according to the Birmingham Times:

Jevon Tatum — Essence Body Products, a sustainable wellness brand
Kym’Bria Green — Sweet Spot for All, a subscription service for diabetics and their families
Stephanie Steward — Sweet as a Peach Design Studio, provides aspiring designers and local businesses with creative services
Myles Taylor — Dosie, helps individuals manage complex medication regimens

“Birmingham has an amazing up-and-coming entrepreneurial ecosystem that we want to continue to support and nourish. Seeing the initial success and enthusiasm of our first Bold Path Fellowship cohort is a testament to both the benefit of this program and the need to keep it going to ensure founders have the resources they need for early-stage business development.”
Joe Watt, managing director for the Education Impact Fund

Local economic development nonprofit Prosper is also serving as a key strategic partner for the fellowship, helping to bridge relationships with local colleges and universities, organizations and community members.

To be considered for the fellowship, individuals must have completed a postsecondary program of study within the last five years (spring 2026 graduates are eligible), be a resident of the greater Birmingham area and have plans to launch their venture in Birmingham.

Program Timeline: