Small Business Impact Institute

The Small Business Impact Institute is a transformative small business ecosystem dedicated to empowering Gwinnett County’s minority, veteran, and women-owned 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 minority, veteran, and women-owned 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 minority, veteran, and women-owned (MVW) 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.

Part 2: Revenue & Supply Chain Growth (6 months)

The Revenue and Supply Chain Growth 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.

Part 3: Government Contracts (6 months)

The Small Business Growth: Government Contracts Course is designed for Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and Gwinnett Foundation-certified businesses that hold government supply chain certifications but have yet to leverage them as a revenue source. This course empowers participants to unlock the full potential of their certifications to diversify and grow their business revenue streams.

Through this program, participants will learn:

  • The Value of Certification: Understand why government certifications are a powerful tool for securing contracts and building a sustainable revenue base.
  • Accessing Government Contracts: Gain step-by-step insights into finding, bidding on, and winning government contracts.
  • Maintaining Contracts for Wealth Building: Learn how to effectively manage and retain contracts to foster long-term business growth and financial stability.

This course provides actionable strategies to transform certifications into a wealth-building asset, helping businesses thrive in the competitive government contracting space.

Part 4: Becoming a Franchisee (6 months)

The Becoming a Franchisee course is tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to explore franchise ownership as a path to business growth. This course provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to successfully operate a franchise, from evaluating opportunities to launching and managing a franchise business.
Participants will learn:
  • Understanding Franchise Models: Explore the pros and cons of franchising and determine if it aligns with your business goals.
  • Selecting the Right Franchise: Gain insights into researching and evaluating franchise opportunities that fit your skills, interests, and market.
  • Financial and Legal Preparation: Learn about franchise fees, funding options, contracts, and legal requirements.
  • Operational Excellence: Discover the tools and systems needed to run a franchise efficiently and profitably.
  • Building a Sustainable Franchise Business: Understand how to leverage franchising for long-term success and scalability.
This course equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions and take the next steps toward becoming successful franchisees.
Interest Form
Apply

Applications open Jan. 3-31