Small Business Impact Institute

Part 1 & 2 applications are now closed.

The Small Business Impact Institute is a transformative small business ecosystem dedicated to empowering Gwinnett County’s diverse, emerging, and franchising small businesses. Designed to provide access, exposure, and experience, the Institute supports businesses in achieving sustainable growth and transitioning from sole proprietorships to employer-based firms.

Through a dynamic and comprehensive curriculum and 1 on 1 small business consultative services, participants will gain:

  • Expert Guidance: Learn from industry leaders and subject matter experts on critical topics like supply chain certifications, government contracting, franchise preparedness, and more.
  • Targeted Resources: Engage in diverse, emerging, and franchising business accelerators designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities of underrepresented entrepreneurs.
  • Strategic Opportunities: Build the capabilities needed to secure contracts, scale operations, and thrive in competitive markets.

Whether it’s navigating government contracting, unlocking new growth channels, or building a foundation for scalability, the Small Business Impact Institute is committed to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and business success. Join us to create a lasting impact for your business and contribute to a thriving, diverse economy in Gwinnett County.

Part 1: Getting Certified (12 months)

The Getting Certified Course is tailored for small businesses with products or services ready to enter corporate, local, state, and government supply chains. Designed to empower diverse, emerging, and franchising businesses, this course provides the tools and guidance necessary to obtain certifications, connect with procurement partners across supply chain sectors, and unlock new growth opportunities.

Through a blend of expert-led instruction and 1-on-1 consulting, participants will learn to apply best practices in supply chain operations, develop winning bid strategies, and build sustainable brands. With a focus on increasing annual revenue by 15-20%, this course equips businesses to compete and thrive in the competitive procurement ecosystem.

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Part 2: Accelerator (12 months)

The Accelerator Course is an advanced program designed for small businesses that have successfully completed the 12-month Getting Certified Course. This next-level course equips newly certified businesses with the knowledge and skills to navigate deeper into supply chain and contract processes, ensuring they are prepared to compete and excel.

Participants will explore five advanced best business practices essential for winning and maintaining contracts at the highest standard:

  1. Developing a Strong Capability Statement: Create a professional, concise document that highlights your business’s unique value, key qualifications, and past performance. This serves as a critical marketing tool to attract and reassure potential buyers in the supply chain.
  2. Mastering Proposal Writing and Compliance: Learn to craft competitive, compelling, and compliant bids that address all requirements and specifications. Pay close attention to detail, deadlines, and procurement guidelines to avoid disqualification.
  3. Building Operational Excellence: Establish efficient internal processes, including quality assurance, inventory management, and risk mitigation strategies. Ensure your business can reliably meet contract terms and deliver consistently high-quality products or services.
  4. Financial Readiness and Management: Maintain accurate financial records, cash flow, and creditworthiness. Demonstrating financial stability reassures procurement partners of your ability to manage and execute contracts effectively.
  5. Fostering Relationships and Networking: Build and nurture relationships with key procurement officers, prime contractors, and industry influencers. Networking increases visibility creates opportunities for subcontracting and enhances your reputation in the supply chain ecosystem.

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Sponsorship Opportunities

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program

This free learning platform was developed in partnership with small business owners like you, who understand what it takes to succeed in the digital economy. The program is simple to use, with all the information available online in one place. After getting to know your business, we’ll provide resources, networking and coaching tailored to your specific needs. The program can help your business move forward in four ways:

  1. Personalized learning
  2. Expert coaching
  3. Peer networking
  4. Incentives
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