Programs

At the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation (GCF), we accelerate small business growth and create opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive. Resilient, empowered businesses are essential to building a sustainable and prosperous community. Through strategic programs, tailored technical assistance, and impactful events, we equip business owners with the knowledge, certifications, and connections needed to grow confidently and lead with purpose.

Small Business Impact Institute (SBII)


The Small Business Impact Institute is a cornerstone initiative designed to empower Gwinnett’s small business owners with the expertise and resources to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace. Offering certification programs, technical assistance, and business education, SBII serves as a launchpad for businesses seeking to scale strategically and access new opportunities.

Supplier Certification Cohort

Each year, the Institute selects 25 applicants for its Supplier Certification Cohort, providing hands-on guidance to earn certifications such as:

  • Supply Chain Certification
  • Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
  • Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)

Cohort members receive personalized support to complete the certification process and strategically position themselves for supply chain opportunities.

Accelerator Program

For certified businesses ready to maximize their new status, the Accelerator Program delivers actionable strategies to secure contracts, increase visibility, and expand reach in competitive industries.

Verizon Small Business Bootcamp

The Verizon Small Business Bootcamp is a virtual education program designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their core business skills and prepare for long-term growth. This online learning series offers courses on critical business competencies, including:

  • Financial management and pricing strategies
  • Marketing and branding
  • Sales techniques and customer engagement
  • E-commerce and digital tools for growth

Business owners who complete at least two classes become eligible to apply for Verizon’s $10,000 small business grant program, creating opportunities to access capital and accelerate success. This program is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking actionable strategies, practical resources, and funding pathways that will help them thrive in a competitive market.

Grow. Thrive. Repeat.

This high-impact event supports entrepreneurs preparing for strategic growth and wealth-building. Whether you are seeking funding, purchasing your first commercial property, or mapping out your exit strategy, this program brings together industry experts to help build generational success and sustainability.

Honoring Legacies & Empowering Leaders

This series showcases multi-generational business leaders and their journeys to long-term success. Through candid conversations with Gwinnett Chamber Chairman’s Club members, attendees gain insight into leadership, resilience, and succession planning, learning what it takes to lead thriving businesses across generations.

Rock the Range Fundraiser


Rock the Range is a dynamic golf-inspired fundraising event supporting the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation’s mission. Participants enjoy a mix of:

  • Four holes of golf or professional golf instruction
  • Networking opportunities
  • Curated wine tastings and gourmet bites
  • A vibrant “Par Tee” reception

Proceeds fund GCF programs that accelerate small business growth throughout the region.

Power of Impact Gala

The Power of Impact Gala is GCF’s signature black-tie event, celebrating entrepreneurship, leadership, and economic impact. This exclusive evening honors business leaders who turned challenges into opportunities and built lasting legacies. Beyond an elegant celebration, the Gala catalyzes small business success in Gwinnett.

Funding & Partnerships

GCF does not directly provide grants to small businesses. Instead, cohort funding is made possible through partnerships with local, state, and federal certifying agencies, as well as non-profit organizations with expertise in certification areas. These collaborations enable us to leverage resources and maximize impact, ensuring that MVW-owned businesses receive comprehensive support to thrive and prosper.

Supplier Diversity

Supplier diversity is a strategic business practice that ensures a diverse supplier base in the procurement of goods and services by corporations, government agencies, and educational institutions. It aims to create a level playing field for historically underrepresented businesses, including minority-owned, veteran-owned, and women-owned enterprises. By fostering an inclusive supplier ecosystem, supplier diversity enhances innovation, drives economic growth, and promotes inclusive economic prosperity.