Photo Caption: Moire Riley networks at the meeting
Jacqueline S. Bullard
On Sept. 7th, the Community College of Baltimore County hosted a small business information session on the Catonsville Campus. The program, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB), is made possible by philanthropic donations in the amount of $10 million from Goldman Sachs and Bloomberg Philanthropies.
Partnering in the worthwhile endeavor, along with CCBC, are Johns Hopkins and Morgan State Universities. The first successful information session was held at MSU. Those that are chosen to participate in the program will attend classes at Johns Hopkins.
The Goldman Sachs “10KSB” initiative promises to ignite the potential of Baltimore’s small but impactful businesses. The curriculum is comprehensive; offering a beginning module entitled “You and Your Business” and culminating with “Action for Growth.”
The tuition for Goldman Sachs “10KSB” is offered at zero cost to business owners who, according to Louise Slezak, Dean of Community Education and Service, “will also receive an expanded peer network of small business owners who are prepared to offer hands-on education for business growth from across the country and access to highly trained professionals who understand what it takes to grow a small business.” The components for success have been incorporated. All that is needed are applicants.
The evening began with quality time for networking. I met a young woman named Jennifer, a CPA, who was one of the first people in attendance. After the customary pleasantries, Jennifer shared her hopes to be able to participate and that she is looking forward to hearing more about the program. Her excitement was evident as she surveyed the room.
Shortly thereafter the program was underway. Dr. Sandra Kurtinitis, President of the Community College of Baltimore County, welcomed everyone. The president spoke of how the program is poised to strengthen the community by building economic growth. Similar to a cyclical domino effect, the program will help small business owners, the businesses will help the community, and the community will help the small business by offering support and patronage. It is truly believed to be a win-win scenario for all involved.
The president’s words were inspiring and created an air of anticipation and excitement. The faces of potential applicants looked hopeful at the prospect of participating in a program that promised so much.
Shortly thereafter, a video played that provided a picture of what the Goldman Sachs “10KSB” program could offer anyone who met the criteria. The small check list includes:
• Having been in business for two years or more
• Has at least two employees
• Has $100K in annual revenue
To wrap things up, Michael Netzer, Executive Dean of Continuing Education, reflected on his own business endeavor, that he later sold. He remarked that his own business had been successful because of his personal network but those that do not have such a network should consider this opportunity offered by Goldman Sachs “10KSB.”
The program has the potential to take small businesses to the next level by leveraging the power of a consortium of leading educational institutions and a supportive peer network.
The evening ended on a high and hopeful note. Moire Riley, Coordinator of Small Business Programs at the Community College of Baltimore County, shared, “You (small business owners) can make a difference.” She also encouraged all small business owners to invest in themselves and by extension, their communities.
For more information about Goldman Sachs 10KSB, contact Moire Riley at mriley@ccbcmd.edu or call 443-840-1804.
Reading the article, I’m trying to understand how banks can help us for small businesses. How do we make sure to keep an eye on the banks so that they don’t just take our money? I’m just curious, because my bank, Bank of America, is one of the biggest banks in the world. Most big banks are notorious for their scandals and financial issues. But I want to be able to go mainstream with my money, so I joined my parents’ bank a few years ago. I want to find out more about their practices so that I can make sure that my money is being treated fairly and with respect. But, I do congratulate this move to be able to work with small businesses. Let’s make sure, though, to hold banks accountable and work more for their communities.