Small business owners are the heart of our communities. You create jobs, serve neighbors, build wealth, and help strengthen the future of St. Louis. Now, a major opportunity is available to help established entrepreneurs grow with greater confidence, strategy, and support.
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis Center for Entrepreneurship is helping connect local business owners to the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, a no-cost business education initiative designed to help entrepreneurs take their businesses to the next level.
A No-Cost Opportunity to Grow Your Business
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is a fully funded business education program powered by a curriculum designed by Babson College. Selected participants take part in an intensive, multi-week learning experience focused on practical strategies in operations, finance, marketing, and growth planning.
This program is built for business owners who are serious about scaling. It offers hands-on education, real-world tools, and access to a network of fellow entrepreneurs working to strengthen and expand their businesses.
According to program materials, graduates have reported strong outcomes, including increased revenue, new job creation, and continued collaboration with alumni across the country. The program also includes more than 18,000 alumni nationwide in all 50 states.
Why This Matters for St. Louis
The Urban League Center for Entrepreneurship exists to support entrepreneurs from startup to scale-up by providing business counseling, mentoring, access to resources, and educational programming that helps build profitable and sustainable businesses in the St. Louis region.
This opportunity reflects that mission. By helping more small business owners prepare for and apply to the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, the Center for Entrepreneurship is continuing its work to expand access, strengthen local businesses, and support economic growth in our communities.
Free Prep Workshops for Entrepreneurs
To help business owners better understand the application process, the Urban League Center for Entrepreneurship is hosting free prep workshops for St. Louis entrepreneurs.
Day 1: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
1408 N. Kingshighway
Day 2: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
2900 Pershall Rd.
These workshops will cover tips for answering application questions, what Goldman Sachs looks for in candidates, what to expect during the process, and a Q&A session where entrepreneurs can get their questions answered directly. Participants will also hear from Michelle Robinson, a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses alumna and workshop facilitator, about her experience in the program.
Who Should Apply?
Entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply if they own an established business, have demonstrated revenue and/or job creation, and are committed to fully participating in the program. The application process is competitive, and spots are limited.
Small business owners may reside anywhere in the United States, and the national cohort is offered online, making this opportunity accessible to entrepreneurs beyond the St. Louis region.
Take the Next Step
Applications are open now. Business owners can apply online at:
The application takes about 15 minutes to begin, and the Urban League Center for Entrepreneurship is available to help entrepreneurs navigate the process.
For questions or support, contact:
Dr. Aleta Grimes Mitchell
entrepreneurship@urbanleague-stl.org
314-850-6059
This is a powerful moment for small business owners who are ready to grow, plan, and lead with purpose. Do not wait. Take the next step, attend an information session, and position your business for what comes next.
Let’s elevate St. Louis and small businesses across the country together.