On-line applications are now being accepted, until March 1st, for the U.S. Small Business Administration Emerging Leaders training initiative, through the Seattle SBA District Office. This free ‘mini-MBA’ program gives small business owners tools to spark sustainable growth, and create more jobs, in our area.
For the eighth year in a row, the Seattle SBA will offer this free entrepreneurship education and training for small business executives. The series includes nearly 100 hours of classroom time, along with counseling by experienced coaches and mentors, workshops and opportunities to connect with peers, local leaders and the financial community.
Basic eligibility requirements for participating in the SBA Emerging Leaders program includes:
- Being a small business owner, or head decision-maker
- The business sees annual revenues between $400,000 and $10 million
- The business has been operational for at least three years
- Employ at least one person, other than self
- Commitment to the time required for completing the course, from April to October
- The business has demonstrable growth potential or stands near to transition
“For every $200 the SBA invests in the Emerging Leaders program, a new job is created,” SBA Regional Administrator Jeremy Field said. “That’s a substantial return on investment for small business owners ready to grow and actively contribute to our economy and communities.”
Since its inception in 2008, the Emerging Leaders initiative has trained more than 5,000 small business owners across the country, and those graduates have created more than 6,500 jobs, generating more than $300 million in new financing.
This program is free to business owners that fit the guidelines, but space is limited. Only 20 seats are available for the 2018 program in Seattle, and on-line applications can be submitted now through March 1st. For more information, visit the SBA.gov/EmergingLeaders webpage, or contact Lisa White at lisa.white@sba.gov or 206-553-7050.
“SBA Emerging Leaders has a proven track record of helping small businesses in Washington,” SBA Seattle District Director Kerrie Hurd said. “By working on their business instead of in their business, graduates of the program have increased their revenue, created jobs and helped drive local economic growth in their communities.”
Find out more on the SBA.gov website.