NEW: Bham Biz Alliance launches small business program

Birmingham Business Alliance
Great news for Birmingham businesses. Photo via Jacob Blankenship for Bham Now

Birmingham Business Alliance is launching a new program that will lead to a positive impact on jobs—and dollars—in Birmingham. The new Small Business Advisory Services has plans to serve 250 companies and create 1,300 jobs over the next five years. Keep reading to learn more and find out if your company qualifies.

A new program to impact Birmingham’s thriving business scene 💡

Aerial view of Birmingham
Is your business the next big thing to come out of Birmingham? Photo via Nathan Watson for Bham Now

Birmingham is home to an amazing business scene, with everything from companies that make waves nationally to new locally-based startups.

With funding from Prosper, a coalition of leaders who work to create a vibrant and inclusive economy in Birmingham, Birmingham Business Alliance (The Alliance) is launching its Small Business Advisory Services. The program will curate a marketplace between buyers and suppliers and provide support to create a major impact on jobs and dollars in Birmingham’s economy.

Why does this matter? 🙌

This program is all about equipping local companies to do business with our region’s largest employers.

“We believe that growing small, scalable businesses headquartered in the region’s core is one of the most sustainable ways to drive long-term job growth and wealth creation across our communities. Our Small Business Advisory Services will help bridge some difficult gaps for both small and large businesses and make connections that will drive job growth in the local economy.”

Ron Kitchens, CEO, The Alliance

In the program, business owners will participate in interactive class sessions and peer mentoring groups. At the end of the program, you’ll have a customized, three-year strategic growth plan to build your business and Birmingham’s economy.

Who can apply? 📲

For the first cohort, Supplier Scale, The Alliance is looking for 20 eligible local businesses. It’s focusing on second-stage growth companies that have survived the startup stage and are prepared for further growth. Here’s who qualifies:

  • Privately-owned companies headquartered in Jefferson County
  • 2-10 employees and/or between $100,000 and $999,999 in annual revenue

Applications are open until December 1, 2021, and the first cohort will begin in January. It will utilize members of The Alliance’s team and programs and curriculum from Interise, a small business development organization.

“Birmingham is a community where people help people, and our community is a great place to live, work and do business.”

Kelly Caruso, CEO, Shipt + Prosper board member

Will your biz apply for the Small Business Advisory Services? Let us know by tagging @BhamNow on social.

Cecilia Wood
Cecilia Wood
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