LEVEL UP YOUR
SMALL BUSINESS
The Detroit Metro Area is home to a thriving community of small businesses across various industries, from startups to family-owned enterprises. However, as many entrepreneurs know, running a small business comes with unique challenges, from juggling daily operations and managing finances to navigating a competitive landscape. That’s where the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program comes in, offering a transformative, no-cost opportunity to help you learn how to work on your business and not just in your business.
What is the Goldman Sachs
10,000 Small Businesses Program?
The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program is an incredible business education initiative explicitly designed for small business owners ready to take their companies to the next level. The program offers small business owners a unique opportunity to access world-class education, expert advice, and valuable resources—all at no cost.
Whether you’re looking to improve your business strategy, expand your leadership skills, or access capital for growth, the program offers the tools you need to strengthen your foundation and scale successfully.
BROAD SET OF INDUSTRIES
WHO SHOULD APPLY
Minimum Requirements:
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Must be the owner or co-owner
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Business in operation 2 years or more
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Business revenues over $75,000 in the most recent fiscal year
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Business with a minimum of two employees
EXPECTATIONS
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No cost, 12-week program focused on business growth
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One day a week, classes (usually Fridays) from 8:30 am – 5:30 pm, and a few evening clinics
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Classes held at Wayne State University – Tech Town
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Classes are held three times a year: Winter, Summer, and Fall
SCHEDULES
Winter 2026 Cohort
The application deadline is
October 3, 2025
WEEKLY CLASSES BEGIN
January 12, 2026 – April 4, 2026
Summer 2026 Cohort
The application deadline is
February 6, 2026
WEEKLY CLASSES BEGIN
May 7, 2026 – August 7, 2026
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Fall 2026 Cohort
The application deadline is
May 16, 2026
WEEKLY CLASSES BEGIN
September 2, 2026 - December 3, 2026
TESTIMONIALS
Deana Neely
Cohort: 26
Business: Detroit Voltage
Program Experience: "The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program helped me develop a more intentional approach to growth by teaching me how to evaluate opportunities before pursuing them. As entrepreneurs, it’s easy to be pulled in many directions by new ideas, and this program provided the structure and discipline needed to focus on what truly makes sense for the business. It also strengthened my ability to lead with clarity and confidence. Beyond the curriculum, the relationships built with my cohort have been invaluable. We’ve created a trusted community where we openly share growth strategies, navigate challenges, and support one another through the realities of entrepreneurship. From the leadership to the staff, the experience was truly wonderful."