Join us at the Social Capital for EntreSuccess (SCES) Academy and join a cohort of other entrepreneurs and business owners to learn and practice the key skill of building social capital.

During this 5-week, two hour per week program, you will:

– Increase social capital to take your business to the next level

– Learn about business development programs, services and opportunities

– Grow your revenue and profit margins through connections and resources

A lack of social capital — networks of relationships with potential investors, seasoned advisors and reputable contractors — is a major reason why 90 percent of small businesses fail, according to Dun and Bradstreet, the business data research firm.

Given the statistics, there’s no denying the importance of social capital in driving your business or social venture to the top. With access to social capital, small businesses and entrepreneurs can capitalize on the valuable information, tools, and resources they need for success.

The SCES Academy is a one-of-a-kind, five-week program designed to help entrepreneurs increase their social capital with key “Opportunity Guides” – experts in marketing, sales, contract procurement, law, accounting, business development, hiring, financing, and more – the people who can help your businesses grow.

The SCES Academy will meet at the Maryland Innovation Center from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM each Monday starting April 4 thru May 3. You will also have access to the opportunity HUB and personal mentoring following the program. The cost of the program is normally $495 but due to a generous donation from Howard County, the BRITE program will cover most of the cost and the registration is only $25 for Howard County based businesses or residents. Registration for Maryland residents and businesses outside Howard County is $100.

This program is part of the Howard County, Maryland Innovation Center BRITE (Business Revitalization Initiative Through Entrepreneurship) program and is underwritten by a generous grant from Howard County and is powered by the Howard County Economic Development Authority. The program is conducted by Social Capital Builders, an organization dedicated to teaching people and organizations about the power of social capital and support them in using it to improve economic opportunities.

Please note, this is a 5 series event, held on Apr. 4, Apr. 11, Apr. 18, Apr. 25, and May 2. Registration is limited and will close on April 3. This event will be held in person.