Soma Launches New Entrepreneurship Program: Starting and Growing your Massage Therapy Business

By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute 

With surveys suggesting that over 95% of our student body hope to own their own business one day, Soma launched its first entrepreneurship workshop on January 20, 2023. The demand for this program was unprecedented as dozens of Soma graduates were waitlisted.

Day One was taught by senior representatives from BMO/Harris Bank with a focus on developing your business plan and obtaining business credit. Participants unanimously agreed that Day One was a success. When asked what areas should be covered in future sessions, participants responded that market research, branding, marketing, sales and hiring and managing staff were highest on their list.

I have a passion for entrepreneurship and helping the next generation start and grow their businesses. As a founding member and board chair of the Women and Entrepreneurship Institute at DePaul University, where I teach classes giving aspiring entrepreneurs advice and guidance, I could not be more excited about the interest Soma students have expressed in learning about starting a business.

The good news for Soma students is the health and wellness industry offers an ease with which people can become entrepreneurs. The startup costs are relatively low because you do not need to start with a brick and mortar location. You can visit people in their homes or workplaces. Even massage therapists working with an employer often have private clients as well.

Entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone, but it’s exciting to consider your options and Soma students have already taken an important first step. To get more information about upcoming workshops please email careers@soma.edu.