business_plan_web.jpgORLANDO, Fla. (AP) —FloMIAMI – Business executives looking to create a tailored strategic growth plan for their companies may want to consider the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Emerging Leaders Initiative.

SBA’s South Florida District is seeking 15 Miami-Dade business executives to register for its SBA Emerging Leaders initiative, a federal training program that focuses on businesses poised for growth in historically challenged communities.

 “This initiative will provide executives from 15 Miami-Dade businesses with the organizational framework, resource network, and motivation required to build sustainable businesses and promote the economic development within the county,” said SBA South Florida District Director Francisco “Pancho” Marrero.

While the executive-level course is free for businesses accepted into the program, executives must commit to approximately 100 hours of classroom and out-of-classroom work.  The first class meets Apr. 15 and will meet on alternating Tuesday nights through October. Classes are at Florida International University’s Downtown campus on Brickell Center, 1101 Brickell Ave., Miami.  Classes will run from 6-9 p.m.

Executives interested in the program should be the owner or principal in a small business that has annual revenues of at least $400,000; been in business for at least three years; and have at least one employee other than himself.  More importantly, the executive must be dedicated to attend 13 evening training sessions and complete required homework.

The curriculum called the “StreetWise Steps to Small Business Growth,” is comprised of five modules: Business and Strategy Assessment; Financials; Marketing and Sales;  Resources (People, Accessing Capital and Government Contracting); and Strategic Growth Plan Presentations.

Small business owners and those interested in the program can register now.  Registration will close March 21.  SBA South Florida district will make the final selection from qualified executives. 

Executives interested in registering for the SBA South Florida Emerging Leaders Initiative can register online at:  interise.org/sbaemergingleaders.  Other information about the program can be found at:  sba.gov/miamiemergingleaders.