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In 1969 Khosrow Semnani arrived in Salt Lake City as a student with less than $50 in his pocket. He had dreams of attending a U.S. university, aspirations to become a successful business owner, and goals to give back to his community. He worked jobs as a janitor, painted houses, mowed lawns and found other odd jobs to put himself through school. While earning a degree, he connected with mentors and investors and used that expertise to start Utah’s first hazardous waste disposal facility, eventually founding Envirocare in 1988.
Khos, as he is known to his many friends across the state, sold his business after years of growth and profitability and now manages a diverse portfolio of global investment portfolios. He stands as a model of business success and community philanthropy in every sense of the word, as evidenced by Maliheh Free Clinic and the One Kind Act a Day initiative which he founded and funds.
Khos’ story is just one example of how Utah’s reputation as the Best State for Business is not mere happenstance, but the result of a collective commitment to fostering growth and success, particularly among small businesses. With over 99% of businesses in Utah falling into the small business category, it’s clear that these enterprises form the backbone of our state’s economy. Nurturing small business ventures is vital to Utah’s economic prosperity. For entrepreneurs seeking guidance and support, initiatives like the Diverse-Owned Business Accelerator are exceptional resources.
This accelerator program at the Salt Lake Chamber provides a platform for businesses to thrive, not only empowering individual entrepreneurs but contributing to the overall economic growth and vitality of our community. Designed as a 4-week cohort program, it offers a structured environment where participants can collaborate, learn and grow together. Through a series of workshops and mentorship sessions, entrepreneurs are equipped with the tools and strategies needed to succeed in today’s competitive business landscape.
Key components of the accelerator program include:
For small business owners feeling overwhelmed or directionless, the Diverse-Owned Business Accelerator offers a lifeline, providing the guidance and support needed to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. By investing in the success of these enterprises, we not only empower individual entrepreneurs but also foster a more resilient and inclusive economy that benefits us all.
If you’re a small business owner looking to level up your skills and accelerate your growth, consider joining the Diverse-Owned Business Accelerator. Together, we can build a brighter future for Utah’s small business community and beyond.