The Midlands Minority Business Accelerator (MMBA) is a program of the Columbia Chamber in partnership with the South Carolina Minority Business Accelerator.
Funded with a seed grant from Bank of America, MMBA is an initiative designed to advance economic inclusion across the state of South Carolina by helping to reduce the economic disparities experienced by minority-owned businesses. The initiative provides opportunities for economic growth and prosperity for high-potential minority-owned firms. MMBA is a major economic development tool of the Columbia Chamber and is designed to make minority businesses more competitive. Its mission is clear: to accelerate the development of minority-owned businesses to strengthen and expand our region’s minority entrepreneurial community.
MMBA Curriculum
The Columbia Chamber’s Minority Business Accelerator uses the award-winning and internationally-recognized StreetWise ‘MBA’™ curriculum created by Interise to aid business owners in developing a three-year Strategic Growth Action Plan™, which is customized to their individual business and details the strategies and tactics the owner and staff will take to increase revenue, financial management and improve access to capital.
During the 12-month MBA Program Participants Can Expect To Learn:
- Business development strategies
- Strategic planning
- Financial management and analysis
- Human resources
- Accessing capital
- Securing corporate and government contracts
Who should apply?
The Midlands Minority Business Accelerator’s ideal candidates are those who meet the qualifications and are looking for sustainable growth in their business. This program is for those will put the necessary effort into the development and implementation of their Growth Plans, those who are committed, prepared, and eager to participate in peer learning, and those who understand the importance of working on strategic priorities.
Qualifications:
- Must be a minority-owned business, defined as at least 51% owned operated, and controlled by individuals who are a part of a racial, cultural, or ethnic minority group.
- Must be a small business who meets the minimum annual revenue requirements of $200k.
- Must have the equivalent of at least one FTE, beside the owner.
- Beyond start-up phase, should be in operation for at least three years of application date.
For more information and to apply, go to the Midlands Minority Business Accelerator page. You can also contact Naomi Walton at (803)733-1149.
Also, click on the link to read more on the Midlands Minority Business Accelerator Program!