Free Trainings for Small Business Growth Available Spring 2025
Small business owners can get free training from the Mecklenburg County Office of Economic Development next spring and gain the tools they need to grow their businesses.
Applications are open to join the spring 2025 cohorts of the Business LaunchPad and Get Up and Grow programs. The deadline to apply for the spring sessions is Aug. 31.
Train in Government and Private Contracting with Business LaunchPad
Business LaunchPad provides a toolkit for minority and women business owners to succeed in governmental, institutional and private contracting opportunities. Graduates often become vendors to Mecklenburg County, providing goods and services, and qualifying for County projects.
The spring 2025 cohort will run January through May. Participants should be able to attend classes virtually and in person at Central Piedmont Community College’s Central Campus in Charlotte. Participants and their businesses must also meet eligibility requirements:
- The business must be located in Mecklenburg County.
- The business must be 51% owned and operated by a minority or woman.
- The participant must be the owner and/or CEO of the company.
- The business must be a for-profit business.
Participating business owners will learn about capability statements, proposal writing, certifications, and contract compliance. The program gives participants access to subject-matter experts, business development resources, and real-world workshops and events.
Apply for Business LaunchPad today.
Grow Your Business and Increase Annual Sales with Get Up and Grow
The Get Up and Grow program helps small business owners grow and expand their businesses and increase annual sales.
The spring 2025 cohort will run January through May. Participants should be able to attend classes virtually and in person at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte. Participants and their businesses must also meet eligibility requirements:
- The business must be located in Mecklenburg County.
- The participant must be the owner and/or CEO of the company.
- The business has been in operation for at least two years.
- The business has at least two employees.
Each participant will develop a strategic growth plan and receive access to professional consultants, a peer network, and trainings with subject-matter experts.