YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The U.S. Small Business Administration is seeking area small-business owners to participate in its second round of the e200 Emerging Leaders Initiative.
The program, first offered here in 2011, offers entrepreneurs an intensive curriculum focused on developing growth strategies, utilizing local resources and attracting capital to fuel growth. Participants will have the opportunity to work with experienced mentors, attend workshops and develop connections with banks and the private equity community.
“We’re pleased, along with our partners, to offer e200 and its MBA-style program to Youngstown,” said Gil Goldberg, SBA Cleveland District director. “Past graduates of the program have increased their revenue, created jobs and helped drive local economic growth in their communities. We hope eligible small businesses will take full advantage of this tremendous opportunity for Youngstown area based businesses.”
Ron Nanosky, CEO of The Agent Insurance Services of Boardman and a graduate of SBA’s first e200 class, touted the value of the program. “E200 is one of the best educational experiences that I, as business owner, have ever attended,” he said. “Not only did I take away an incredible educational experience, I also developed relationships and friendships with other business owners that will last a lifetime.”
Participation in e200 is free to qualifying businesses. Criteria include having been in business for a minimum of three years, gross annual revenues of approximately $400,000, and preferably a location within the city of Youngstown, although other interested companies will be considered. Participation is limited to 17 businesses.
The six-month training includes approximately 100 hours of total time commitment per participant including class, homework and CEO mentoring groups. The program will focus on such topics as finance, market development, organization management, strategic planning and growth strategies. CEOs will also have an opportunity to connect with their peers, city leaders, and the financial community.
The e200 Initiative is co-sponsored by the city of Youngstown’s economic development department and the Ohio Small Business Development Center at Youngstown State University.
Companies interested in exploring this opportunity should contact SBA’s Jim Duffy at 216- 522-4169 or [email protected].
Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.