The Colorado SBDC Network’s flagship strategic planning series, LEADING EDGE™, delivers comprehensive training to small businesses by providing entrepreneurs with a better understanding of starting and operating a small business. The program has courses geared to help both start-up and existing businesses in the areas of finance, marketing, management, and more.
The program is offered statewide and over 3,000 businesses have participated in this intensive, specialized training series since its inception in 1989. While a typical LEADING EDGE™ series meets once a week over 12 weeks, the series may differ in format, such as a six week bootcamp. All LEADING EDGE™ courses involve approximately 36 hours of intensive training facilitated by state-certified instructors. Curriculum used includes NxLeveL and other local supplemental resources that are provided.
All LEADING EDGE™ courses are highly interactive, which ensures the flow of information not just from the instructor, but between participants as well.
LEADING EDGE™ participants will graduate from the program with a completed business plan in hand. Graduates are invited to a statewide ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion each spring, where prizes are awarded to the top plans in the state.
The network also offers an online version of the training.
Scholarships may be available to qualified individuals. Individual centers, including the Southern Colorado SBDC have direct scholarships available; for more information on local scholarships contact the Southern Colorado SBDC at sbdc@pueblocc.edu.
