A program that trains entrepreneurs how to improve their small businesses in central and northern New York, is looking for its next class. So far, 130 businesses in the region have participated in the Small Business Administration’s Emerging Leaders program.
The Mello Velo Bicycle Shop & Café in Syracuse moved from a small space on Westcott Street to a large, brightly colored, three-story building close to downtown, last year. Co-owner Sara Morris was in the Emerging Leaders program in 2014, when she and her husband were trying to purchase the building.
“The Emerging Leaders program really helped us, gave us the confidence to take this big leap," Morris said. "We’ve invested so much time and effort transforming this building, which was once a shell, just basically walls and floor, no electric, no plumbing, no nothing.”
Morris said the program helped them step back from the business and look at the big picture.
“Just the financing hurdles you have to go through as a small business,” Morris said. “Just becoming literate, so you can look at your numbers and be able to make decisions. There comes a time when you may need to expand and hire on more staff; how to tackle that issue itself.”
SBA District Director Bernard Paprocki said the goal is to help entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses, expand operations, and create jobs.
“So, in the very end, you’ll have produced a three-year strategic growth action plan, which Sara told me this morning, she had reread it last night and what?” Paprocki asked her.
“We’ve accomplished pretty much all of our goals,” Morris replied.
Although it’s free, Paprocki said it’s an intense seven-month program. It’s intended to give business owners executive education, practical tips and advice from business leaders. A new class will begin in April.
