Mia Horm, CEO and Founder of Creative Analytics, was accepted into Cohort 19 of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program
In April 2023, I applied to be accepted into the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) program through Morgan State University. I had heard wonderful things about the program and read about the experience on LinkedIn from recent program graduates I follow. It was touted as a transformative experience that culminated in 10KSB participants presenting a self-developed growth plan. I was particularly hopeful to be accepted because I wanted to strengthen my understanding of business financial documents and learn how to leverage financial and economic data to make better business decisions.
The rigorous application process included an initial online application, submission of key financial documents for the past 2 years, and a panel interview — held at Johns Hopkins. Applicants must meet specific criteria to be considered, including being an established business with a minimum revenue and employees.
During my program interview, I discovered the significant time commitment required. However, I recognized its value and committed to studying and applying what I learned.. Participation requires that leaders step away from the daily business operations for a full day weekly — at a minimum — to participate in the live classes.
As a sole proprietor/founder, I often find myself feeling like I have few mentors or associates to whom I can speak about business — and who will be able to offer helpful advice or direction based on first-hand experience. This program would allow me that forum and support that I was missing. I was also quite excited about networking with and learning alongside other high-growth regional business leaders who would also participate.
What is the Goldman Sachs 10KSB Program?
The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) program is a business development and leadership incubator for executives of high-growth companies. Launched in 2011 by Goldman Sachs and the Goldman Sachs Foundation, the 12-week program — delivered in partnership with academic institutions nationwide, such as Johns Hopkins University — aims to empower and train leaders to identify growth opportunities and develop long-term strategies based on their analyses. The hope is — and statistics show — that program alumni often outperform their counterparts post-graduation, resulting in significant revenue growth and job creation.
“Designed by Babson College — the nation’s top-ranked entrepreneurship school — the 10,000 Small Businesses curriculum focuses on practical business skills that can immediately be applied by small business owners,” according to the 10KSB website.
Cohort 19 begins in mid-September 2023 and will include in-person classes in Baltimore, special topic clinics, and about 15-20 hours of prep work between meetings to apply the learnings directly to our businesses. Throughout the program, experts present various topics to help participants analyze and improve their business models, processes, revenue stream, HR systems, and strategic goals.
Classes for Cohort 19 start at Johns Hopkins University in just two weeks from writing, and I am so excited at the prospect of learning from experts and networking with peers — all in the name of making Creative Analytics the digital consulting agency most admired for its people, performance, and service.
To follow along with my 10KSB journey and hear more about some of the session takeaways and clinics, follow Creative Analytics on LinkedIn.
