For the 6th consecutive year, the Seattle Office of the Small Business Administration will be sponsoring the Emerging Leaders course. This is a 7-month course that helps entrepreneurs create a strategic growth plan for their business that actually works. With over 100 graduates in the Seattle area and over 5,000 nationwide, this is the best program for small business owners around. To qualify, you must have at least $500K in revenue and have been in business for five years. All types of businesses are welcome to apply. Last year we had over 100 applicants and can only select 20 so competition to get in is fierce!
Of course, I’m biased towards this program as I’ve been lucky enough to be the instructor for the last 6 years. The progress these entrepreneurs make on their businesses, the growth they experience and the jobs they create are amazing. I just met with some of the graduates from last year and almost all have experienced growth as a result of the strategic changes they have made in their businesses. The best part is that other than your time investment, there is no cost. The SBA covers 100% of the tuition.
Entrepreneurs will learn about Leadership and Culture, Financials, Sales and Marketing and HR. They will also get an in-depth look at all the programs the SBA has to offer and learn how they might leverage those for their business growth. The best part is that they end up with a growth plan that works for them and provides strategic and tactical direction for them and their teams. They get a chance to work on their business vs. in their business.
If you’ve ever wondered why you can’t get past a certain stage of your business or are aware that you never had any formal training as an entrepreneur this is for you. We’ll fill in the missing gaps and arm you with all the tools and knowledge you’ll need to get to that next level of business growth. I know entrepreneurs are resistant to look at the map while on the road, but this is one time you’ll want to stop and take a look!
Applications are open until March 1st, 2018 and we will start sometime in the first part of April so don’t delay. I look forward to helping your business grow!