Small Business Academy

Strategic Networking and Professional Development

The Small Business Academy helps entrepreneurs throughout Greater Washington increase their competitiveness, longevity and value. Small business owners looking to take their firms to the next level will learn about marketing and social media, strategic business planning, technology and building partnerships through this six-month program of practical management training and peer- level exchange . Unlike many regional opportunities designed for start-ups, the Small Business Academy targets firms that have been in operation for at least one year to connect these established, like-minded business owners to build relationships and gain relevant tools with long-term applicability.

The Class of 2008 launched on July 10 with a strong group of entrepreneurs and returning alums.

Six interactive courses:

Marketing and Social Networking
Becoming Tech Savvy to Enhance Your Productivity
Developing and Living By a Winning Business Plan
Financing Your Growing Firm
Accounting and Financial Management
Partnering to Expand Your Capacity

Class of 2008

Testimonials from Alumni:

“As someone who’s been in business for 7 years, I didn’t know if the Small Business Academy would be a good fit. It was! By far the most valuable aspect of participating in the program was connecting and learning from other savvy business owners – that was more than worth the price of admission!”
-- Margarita Rozenfeld, CEO, Incite International

“I joined the 2007 Small Business Academy to meet like-minded business owners and find ways to grow my business and give back. Within 6 months, I connected with 14 business owners that I have added to my referral team, received 2 new clients, became a board advisor, acquired one affiliate partner to expand my services and the list goes on. The Small Business Academy is the best deal in town, if you want to grow your business.”
-- Hennrietta Smith, President, Vital Business Solutions

Additional Details

Board of Trade membership is not required for Academy participation, but is recommended.
Regional experts and executives from Board of Trade member firms serve as faculty.
A cohort of alumni provide guidance and feedback as Alumni Partners throughout the program.
This program has not been designed to suit the management needs of franchise companies or not-for-profit organizations.

For more information about the Small Business Academy, contact Nicole Tarnogursky.