About the Business Accelerators Program
Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development, in partnership with the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC), is excited to offer two Business Accelerator Programs designed to equip local entrepreneurs and business owners with the tools and mentorship needed to launch, grow, and scale their businesses.
Hosted at the Queen Anne’s County Family YMCA, these hands-on, expert-led programs will provide structured coaching, networking, and access to exclusive resources.
Ready to accelerate your business? Applications are now open!
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Which Business Accelerator is right for you?
We are offering two different Business Accelerator programs: the Ignite Business Accelerator for startups & early-stage businesses and the Elevate Business Accelerator for scaling & established businesses.
Application Deadline: March 10, 2025
Start Date: April 1, 2025
Duration: Sessions will be held for 8 weeks on Tuesday evenings from 5:30pm-8:30pm starting on April 1st and ending May 20th.
Investment: $45 per participant
Who Should Apply?
This program is designed for entrepreneurs in the early stages of business development or those contemplating starting a business. If you have a business idea or recently launched a startup, this accelerator will guide you through the fundamental steps needed for success.
What You’ll Gain:
Participants will develop and refine their entrepreneurial vision into a comprehensive launch plan, draft a financing proposal for access to capital & create a 4-minute pitch to secure funding through loans, grants, or investors
Curriculum Highlights:
- Exploring Your Innovative Business Idea
- Identifying and Meeting Market Needs
- Setting Financial Goals
- Understanding Cash Flow and Acquiring Funds
- Implementing Your Business Plan
Application Deadline: March 10, 2025
Dates: May 6 & May 13, 2025 (Two weekday sessions that include lunch)
Duration: Two 6-hour in-person sessions + virtual training
Investment: $85 per participant
Who Should Apply?
This accelerator is designed for business owners generating $50,000+ in annual revenue who are looking to scale their operations, increase profitability, and build long-term equity. If you’re a business owner seeking to improve your financial management, streamline workflows, or prepare for expansion, this is the right program for you!
What You’ll Gain:
Participants will work on their business rather than in it, creating strategic improvements that drive sustainable growth. Business owners will develop effective financial and operational processes to increase revenue, enhance efficiency, and prepare for future expansion or exit strategies.
Curriculum Highlights:
The program follows an intensive two-day format covering key aspects of business scaling and leadership:
- Day 1: Unlocking Revenue Growth Strategies, Increasing Profits by 61% Year Over Year, Strategic Execution: Getting the Most Profitable Tasks Done, Developing a One-Page Strategic Growth Plan, Leveraging Financial Resources for Growth & Sustainability
- Day 2: Building Capacity with the CASH Principle, Enhancing Key Processes for Business Efficiency, Marketing & Branding Strategies for Lead Generation, Strengthening Operational Efficiency & Customer Service Models, Understanding Legal, Risk Management & HR Strategies, Fiscal Fitness: Managing Cash Flow for Stability & Growth, Effective Communication with Investors, Customers, and Employees
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Eligibility & Selection Process
Who Can Apply?
- Businesses based in Queen Anne’s County will receive priority consideration
- Businesses outside of QAC interested in relocating or expanding here
- Entrepreneurs at various stages—from startup founders to established business owners
- Business owners or leaders committed to active participation and program completion
Selection Process:
Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee based on:
- Business stage & revenue level
- Industry type & growth potential
- Fit for the accelerator program’s curriculum
Limited Spots Available! Apply by March 10, 2025.
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This initiative is made possible through grant funding from the Upper Shore Regional Council and the Maryland Department of Commerce, with development and implementation led by Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development.
Learn More: For additional information, contact Rebecca Clark at [email protected]