How do I apply for the Business Growth Acceleration Program?
Please use this link to fill out our application form. You will need to create an account on Submittable.

What are the eligibility requirements?
Business proprietors and senior executives of organizations who have a minimum of one year of experience running a business and at least $2M in annual sales.
OR
Individuals who successfully complete the Corporate Ready Program and receive recommendations from their facilitators.

I have participated in the Corporate Ready Program (CRP), is there a reason I should also participate in the Business Growth Acceleration Program (BGAP)?
Yes! The BGAP program is the next step in planning growth for your business. You’ll document a 2-year growth strategy for your business with guidance from our resource team. We deep dive into topics and work 1:1 for several mentor sessions with a primary mentor that has been aligned with the goals and challenges you have for your business. The bottom line is you’ll continue to broaden your thinking and consider new possibilities for what the future success of your organization can look like.

Is there a cost associated with the Business Growth Acceleration Program?
No, thanks to our valued corporate sponsors, we can offer the program with scholarships, ensuring that MBEs can benefit from this valuable opportunity without financial barriers. There is no direct cost for applicants.

How long does the Business Growth Acceleration Program last?
A typical cohort will take place over six months.
Please click this link to see the 2024 schedule. Please note that these dates are subject to change.

What support is available for participants during and after the program?
You are supported by a program team of entrepreneurs, facilitators and mentors all sharing the goal of helping you succeed in and beyond the program. You’ll get deep support from your assigned primary mentor plus have access to specialty mentors as needed. Access to these platform resources is available for 3 months following program completion. We’ll do annual surveys once you graduate to check growth statistics for reporting purposes, but the real value comes from the relationship you’ve formed with other participants, leaders and mentors.

How does the program address the unique challenges faced by MBEs?
Tailored for participants aspiring to grow their individual businesses, BGAP employs practical methods that immediately apply to your specific challenges. With a focus on real-world applicability, participants actively build and fortify their businesses, guided by experienced entrepreneurial practitioners. The program intensifies each participant’s business, preparing them for sustainable growth.

Is there a graduation or recognition for completing the Business Growth Acceleration Program?
We believe in celebrating the achievements of our MBEs, and as part of this commitment, we host a special in-person ceremony. This event not only marks the culmination of the program but also provides a valuable opportunity for MBEs to pitch their businesses to our corporate partners.