SBA THRIVE

SBA THRIVE is an executive-level training series intended to give ambitious small business leaders a challenging opportunity to accelerate their growth through targeted training led by motivating leaders in small business development. SBA THRIVE revolutionizes the rich history of executive-level training for small businesses poised for growth.

SBA is committed to transforming our learning ecosystem to be timelier, more relevant, and to meet small businesses where they are right now. We embody this approach with SBA THRIVE.

This training is not for start-ups or people who are thinking about starting a business. SBA THRIVE advanced training series is open to small business owners and executives that:

• Have annual revenues of at least $250,000
• Have been in business for at least three years
• Have at least one employee, other than self

• Mentoring
• In-person coaching for C-level executives
• Self-paced instruction with demonstrated business sustainability
• A hybrid model that includes virtual and classroom sessions
• Micro-sessions customized for small businesses’ unique needs
• Experienced subject matter experts
• Removing the one- size fits all model in exchange for engagement, problem-solving, and peer-to-peer interaction within the cohorts

There are no restrictions on the types of businesses that can participate. Participating for-profit companies include all industries including manufacturers, retail/wholesalers, contractors, professional services, and food services to name a few.

The training will stimulate and support the expansion of your business through strategies designed to help access new avenues of capital. It offers practical tools to pursue new paths for business development. It surrounds you with a network of government resources, and local business leaders prepared to invest time and energy in your business.

The program allows participants to work with a network of experienced subject-matter experts in core business topics.  In addition, the new format promotes an ecosystem of business connections among business peers, government leaders, and the financial community. As a result, SBA THRIVE helps build sustainable businesses that promote economic development within their communities.

Additionally, entrepreneurs produce a three-year strategic growth action plan with benchmarks and performance targets to access the support and resources necessary to move forward.  

Yes! There is no direct financial cost upfront, but participants must invest their time and commitment to complete all training sessions over the six months. SBA and our local partners cover all other costs.

SBA THRIVE provides entrepreneurship education and training for executives of small, poised-for-growth companies. This intensive executive entrepreneurship series offers opportunities for small business owners to work with professional coaches and mentors, gain skills needed to grow, and develop connections with peers, local leaders, and the financial community.

Since its inception, SBA THRIVE has trained over 8,000 small business owners, creating over 11,000 jobs, generating nearly $1 billion in new financing, and securing over $4 billion in government contracts. 

SBA THRIVE continues the success of SBA’s executive-level training to small business, reaching 60 locations annually to assist high-potential growing entrepreneurs nationwide.

If you have questions about SBA THRIVE, contact SBA’s Office of Entrepreneurial Development at OED@sba.gov.