Focusing on Growth

Last Fall, I was fortunate enough to have been accepted into the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Baltimore program. The program was challenging, but worth it, and now that it has officially wrapped up and I’ve “graduated,” I am so excited to share what I learned with you.
It’s Always About the People….
The 10KSB Baltimore team who ran our program fostered growth, confidence and leadership . The business advisors, faculty and staff were our biggest cheerleaders and supporters. My business advisor, Robin, and small group, 5 to Thrive, were pivotal in helping me see what areas I needed to focus on. Our discussions were very honest which made my whole experience so authentic. I was challenged to be more open-minded to evolving and cultivating new ideas.
In Good Company….
I was joined by 37 business owners from across the state for this 15-week course. We were given weekly assignments, asked to practice different skills, and then we shared what we learned with peers and received their feedback. We were all learning from each other and exchanging ideas, which made it that much more eye-opening.
The Curriculum….
The different topics we examined each week explored critical aspects that all business owners have to deal, such as negotiation, marketing and organizational processes. They also equipped us with the tools and professional support to develop a strategic and customized growth plan that would help take our business to the next level. I walked away with new ideas that I could implement right away.
Our bond…..
I read recently that there are a number of different ways to bond with one another. Our group of entrepreneurs all enrolled in the program for one common goal: to grow and take our business to the next level! We shared our wins and hardships with each other, which created a level of trust. It was so refreshing and inspiring to be part of a group that “gets it” and understands what it means to be a business owner. Our cohort created an incredible bond because we shared and participated in the same experience. The one thing we all had in common is that we all embodied the entrepreneurial spirit and we were there to learn and grow from one another.
Guided me to….
Clarify our mission, which is to deliver innovative solutions to help our clients move forward with the right online strategy to help their businesses grow. I feel better equipped than ever to grow our business, continue serving our clients at the highest level and help more fellow entrepreneurs reach their goals.
“You will always grow through – what you go through.” – Tyrese Gibson