About the Program
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is an investment program to help entrepreneurs create jobs and economic opportunity by providing them with greater access to education, financial capital and business support services. The program operates in 30 markets across the U.S. through a network of academic and community partners.
"The 10KSB program provides the tools and network connections to be a successful business
leader that is working on the business more than working in the business. The people
I met will remain invaluable peers and mentors to help in times of need and to hold
me accountable."
- Todd Daughenbaugh
Fresh Start Cafe and Bakery
Education for Business Growth
Designed by Babson College, the nation’s top-ranked entrepreneurship school, the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses curriculum focuses on practical skills that small business managers can immediately put into action within their company. Over the course of the program, small business owners will gain the skills needed to recognize new opportunities, embrace practices that increase business growth and ultimately develop a customized growth plan for their business.
The curriculum is organized into nine modules and four clinics geared around small business management training, each of which includes classroom discussion, peer learning exercises, skill building and experiential applications. An integrated portfolio of business services — including one-on-one business advice, legal and financial clinics, and networking opportunities — complements classroom activities.
Access to Capital
Small-business owners learn how to become more bankable and position their businesses to access financing and capital. Through partnerships with local, regional, and national Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and other mission-driven small-business lenders, or “Capital Partners," loans are available to qualifying small businesses that lack access to affordable capital or may not qualify for traditional sources of credit.
Loan applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, independent of acceptance into the business and management education program. Learn more.
A Network of Support
Participants will receive one-on-one business advising and the opportunity to learn from other like-minded business owners. The program provides this expert advice and technical assistance through partnerships with national and local business organizations, professional services firms. Upon completing of the program, participants will join a national network of 10,000 Small Businesses for additional peer-to-peer support.
“The 10KSB program transformed the way I see and run my business. I was pushed out
of my comfort zone to find ways to grow my business all while being held accountable
by amazing mentors.”
-Melanie Guzzo
Owner/ President/ Hairdresser
Virtue Salon, Columbus, OH