Calling all entrepreneurs: SBA’s T.H.R.I.V.E. business-training program seeks applicants

SYRACUSE — Interested entrepreneurs can now apply to participate in the T.H.R.I.V.E. program through the Syracuse-Upstate New York district office of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

T.H.R.I.V.E. — which is short for Train, Hope, Rise, Innovate, Venture, Elevate — is a free national training program for small-business leaders, formerly known as Emerging Leaders. 

The SBA on Feb. 21 said it is currently recruiting small-business applicants who have been in business for at least three years, generate annual revenue of at least $250,000, have at least one employee other than the owner, and who can commit to participating in the six-month program from June 18 to Dec. 10, per the agency’s announcement.

“T.H.R.I.V.E. is a unique SBA program that can be instrumental for entrepreneurs aiming to grow or expand their small businesses. Throughout the course, participants will receive core business knowledge, work directly with a business coach, meet with peers and develop a three-year Strategic Growth Plan,” Daniel Rickman, director of the SBA Syracuse-Upstate New York district office, said in a news release. “We will select 20 participants for the Upstate New York cohort, and I strongly encourage small business owners who are ready for growth to consider applying for this opportunity by the April 28 deadline.”

Over six months, this intensive executive entrepreneurship-training series includes in-person coaching and virtual, self-paced instruction. 

The hybrid program allows participants to work with a network of experienced subject-matter experts in core business topics such as accounting, business strategy, marketing, and human resources “customized for the unique needs of small-business owners,” the Syracuse-Upstate New York district office said.

Small-business owners can learn more regarding eligibility, how to apply, program format, and locations by visiting www.sbathrive.com. 

Business owners interested in applying to participate in the Upstate NY T.H.R.I.V.E. 2024 cohort may contact the district office at (315) 471-9393. They can also email: Syracuse.districtoffice@sba.gov for additional information.