The U.S. Small Business Administration is seeking 15 applicants for its Emerging Leaders Initiative to be held in Tiffin later this year. This is the first time the program, a seven month course for entrepreneurs looking to take their business to the next level, is being offered in a community of this size. The training program is provided at no cost to the participants, and the StreetWise Steps™ to Small Business Growth curriculum gives small business owners an opportunity to gain knowledge and experience through a combination of executive education, practical tips based on real-life business experience, and advice from business leaders that can be readily applied. From the SBA: Emerging Leaders Initiative provides free entrepreneurship education and training for executives of small, poised-for-growth companies that are potential job creators.  This intensive executive entrepreneurship series includes nearly 100 hours of classroom time. It also provides opportunities for small business owners to work with experienced coaches and mentors, attend workshops, and develop connections with their peers, local leaders, and the financial community. Participants are given the opportunity to work with experienced mentors, attend specialized workshops and develop connections with their peers, city leaders, and the financial community. The Initiative incorporates a curriculum that is research-based and nationally scalable, enabling participating businesses to engage in focused development and expansion strategies, including options for accessing new capital and securing government contracts. Since its inception in 2008, the SBA’s Emerging Leaders Initiative has trained over 5,000 small business owners, creating over 6,500 jobs, generating over $300 million in new financing, and securing over $3.16 billion in government contracts. Given the success of SBA’s Emerging Leaders, the SBA has expanded the initiative to include 60 locations to help growing entrepreneurs in emerging markets. Interested candidates can apply here, or contact Tom Sangrik at (216) 522-4198 or thomas.sangrik@sba.gov. Additional information about the program can also be found in this FAQ.