Building for Success
COTC Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
Certification Training Program
Schedule & Logistics:
-
Dates: April 15 – June 3 (8 weeks)
-
Sessions: Every Tuesday, 5:30–8:30 PM
-
Location: Chamber of Commerce 401 S. Broad St. Thomasville, GA 31792
Facilitators and Hosts:
-
Sharon Edwards, Executive Director COTC
-
DeShay Williams, Spark Thomasville Executive Director
Key Program Components:
-
Week 1 – April 15: DBE Certification Documentation
-
Access to industry experts on the DBE certification process
-
-
Week 2 – April 22: Certification Eligibility
-
Step-by-step guidance on eligibility and best practices
-
-
Week 3 – April 29: Leveraging Certification
-
Strategies to secure contracts, form partnerships, and boost market visibility
-
-
Week 4 – May 6: Sustainable Growth
-
Utilizing certified status as a competitive advantage for business expansion
-
-
Week 5 – May 13: Networking Opportunities
-
Connecting with industry professionals and certified businesses
-
-
Week 6 – May 20: Business Plan Development
-
Focused session on developing a robust business plan
-
-
Week 7 – May 27: Business Plan Review
-
In-depth review and refinement of business plans
-
-
Week 8 – June 3: Access to Capital/InvestTVL Overview
-
Strategies and insights on accessing capital for business investments
-
YES! I am interested!
Starting: TBD
Join the 12 Week Childcare Provider Business Cohort
Take the next step in building or expanding your childcare business with the Childcare Provider Business.
This 12-week program is designed to support aspiring and current childcare providers with the skills, resources, and insights needed to create thriving and compliant childcare operations.
What You’ll Learn:
• The ABC’s of Starting an ECE Center & Expansion Grants: Learn the essentials to launch or grow your business.
• Family vs. Learning Centers: Explore different models and choose the one that fits your vision.
• Understanding GELDS (Georgia Early Learning and Development Standards): Ensure compliance with state standards.
• Lesson Plans, Scheduling, and Daily Operation Forms: Build efficient systems to manage your center successfully.
• Business Plan Development and Access to Loan Funding : Expert guidance to craft a strategic business plan. Explore funding options to support your childcare business growth.
This cohort combines industry-specific training with entrepreneurial support, providing you with everything you need to succeed in the childcare industry.
Spots are limited—register today to secure your place and start building your childcare business!
August 2025: 12-Week Spark Thomasville’s Signature 12-Week Training and Coaching Program
Start Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Empowering Entrepreneurs for Success
Spark Thomasville’s 12-week program equips entrepreneurs with the tools to create a bankable business plan, gain financial knowledge, and receive personalized one-on-one coaching. This practical training addresses unique business needs while fostering growth and success.
Program Highlights:
-
Develop a complete, bank-ready business plan.
-
Gain financial training and real-world insights.
-
Receive weekly one-on-one coaching.
Topics Covered:
-
Business Planning
-
Branding and Marketing
-
Sales and Product Development
-
Legal and Financial Basics
-
Pitch Preparation
Who Should Join:
-
Aspiring entrepreneurs ready to launch.
-
Business owners looking to grow.
Additional Benefits:
-
Access to the Community Development Loan Fund for startups and underserved businesses.
-
Ongoing coaching and support after the program.
Build your business legacy with Spark Thomasville.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
