Join us for the Social Capital for EntreSuccess (SCES) Academy to 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 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 – who can help your businesses grow.

The SCES Academy will meet at the Maryland Innovation Center from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM each Monday starting October 9 thru November 6. You will also have access to the Social Capital Coaching HUB, a platform and group committed to support your social capital building efforts following the in- person 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 $50.

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

This program uses Google Classroom for exercises and sharing of materials. Please register with a Gmail account to fully participate in the program. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can easily sign up for one here: https://accounts.google.com/SignUp

Registration closes on Oct. 8