Community Business Academy
An experiential and interactive learning program designed for the entrepreneur and small business owner who wants to build strong foundations of success for their business.
Starting and running a business can be challenging and overwhelming.
The Greater Freeport Partnership Community Business Academy is designed for current and prospective owners of small businesses to develop the skills and knowledge base to build a solid foundation for success of their businesses.
The Partnership knows that helping to create and support a strong entrepreneurial environment is an important way to support the economic vitality and growth of Freeport and Stephenson County.
Register for an information session
Info sessions are mandatory for participation in the community business academy.
Wednesday, July 20 at 6 pm, virtual – Register Here
Tuesday, August 9 at 6 pm, virtual – Register Here
Knowledge of financials, legal structures, insurance and more to safeguard a new business
A network of support and accountability
Business plan development to use as a roadmap to attract funders
Tools to get you started on a new business venturemap to attract funders
Timeline of Courses
Info sessions are mandatory for participation in the community business academy
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- July 20, 6 pm, virtual meeting
- August 9, 6 pm, virtual meeting
- August 19: CBA Applications are due.
- August 30: Acceptance to the CBA sent to participants.
- September 6: CBA Orientation/Kick-off Event in-person at the Partnership office, 6 pm (110 W. Main Street Freeport).
- September 13: Academy begins, held virtually, 6-9 pm
- September 20: Academy session
- September 27: Academy session
- October 4: Academy session
- Checkpoint – Optional homework help, exact date TBD
- October 11: Academy session
- October 18: Academy session
- October 25: Academy session
- November 1: Academy session
- Checkpoint – Optional homework help, exact date TBD
- November 8: Academy session
- November 15: Academy session
- November 29: Academy session
- December 6: Academy session (final class)
- December 13: Academy Graduation (participation optional, but encouraged)
Key Industries
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Celebrating 2024 & Preparing for 2025 December 4, 2024 It’s the beginning of December which has us all reflecting on the year that is almost over, preparing for 2025, and planning holiday celebrations and gifts. If you are planning to show your appreciation for your staff, co-workers, MVP clients, or friends and family, we encourage you to consider a gift that is both highly personalized and very easy to […]
From Surviving to Thriving – Doing Makes All the Difference November 26, 2024 The business landscape in the City of Freeport and Stephenson County is transforming, thanks to the incredible dedication of our existing businesses, the energy of new investors, the positivity of our residents, and the proactive leadership of our local government. Together, we are gradually building an exciting and hopeful future where opportunity thrives, and our community flourishes. The Greater Freeport […]
Celebrating the Spirit of Entrepreneurship November 26, 2024 Entrepreneurs are the driving force behind vibrant local economies. By taking risks, challenging the status quo, and offering innovative solutions to local challenges, they shape the future of our communities. During National Entrepreneurship Month, we honor these visionaries who contribute to the economic diversity, resilience, and vitality of our towns and cities. In communities like Freeport, small businesses play a […]
Partnership Cash for the holidays! November 20, 2024 The Greater Freeport Partnership continues to support the popular Partnership Cash program for the holiday season and you can’t afford to miss out. Partnership Cash can be spent at over 50 local merchants throughout Freeport and Stephenson County. Partnership Cash is a great way to buy for friends, employees, teachers, and others and be sure the dollars stay with local […]