Talbot County small business owners who are ready to increase sales, strengthen their finances, and plan for growth are encouraged to apply for the fifth cohort of the Talbot Works Business Academy. The free, eight-week entrepreneurial training program begins Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2027, and offers practical guidance to help owners turn their business goals into an actionable plan.
Business owners interested in learning more about the Academy can attend an information session on Wednesday, Nov. 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 5 to 7 p.m. at Building African American Minds (BAAM), 31 Jowite St. in Easton. The sessions offer an opportunity to explore how the program can help owners increase revenue, connect with mentors and resources, and develop strategies for growth.
The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism is recruiting owners of small and emerging businesses who want to sharpen their management skills and prepare for their next stage of growth. Participants will work on their own businesses throughout the program, applying lessons to the decisions, challenges, and opportunities they face every day.
Business owners put tremendous energy into serving their customers and keeping daily operations moving,” said Stephanie Mervine, director of Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism. “The Talbot Works Business Academy gives them dedicated time, expert guidance, and practical tools to focus on where they want their businesses to go and how to get there.
Sessions meet via Zoom on Tuesdays from 6 to 9 p.m. Participation is limited to 15 Talbot County business owners, allowing participants to learn alongside fellow entrepreneurs while receiving guidance tailored to their businesses.
The curriculum helps owners understand cash flow, develop growth-supporting budgets, attract customers, and prepare to access capital. Participants also explore hiring and managing employees, strengthening operations, and selling to consumers, other businesses, and government agencies. Meetings with senior advisers in law, accounting, human resources, and marketing connect owners with specialized expertise.
Will Holmes Consulting, a Baltimore-based business management and technology consulting firm, developed the program and provides business capital, coaching, and operational solutions to emerging companies. The Talbot Works Business Academy launched in early 2024 through a partnership with the Mid-Shore Regional Council.
Small business owners who have operated for at least two years and have annual revenue of less than $1.5 million are eligible to apply. Applicants must own a business in Talbot County with the potential to expand operations, hire employees, and positively impact the community. Selected applicants will be invited to a brief Zoom interview.
Participants should be prepared to invest time in their businesses beyond the weekly sessions. Graduation requirements include class attendance and participation, weekly homework assignments, meetings with senior advisers, cash flow projections, and a final 15-minute presentation outlining their business plans.
Whether an owner is preparing to hire a first employee, reach new customers, or make a major investment, growth requires a clear plan,” Mervine said. “We encourage entrepreneurs who are ready to do that work to apply. Helping local businesses become stronger creates opportunities for their owners, their employees, and Talbot County.
The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism works to enhance a business-friendly environment, support current and prospective enterprises, and strengthen the county’s economic vitality. Business owners and managers can subscribe to the Talbot Works newsletter at www.TalbotWorks.org for business news, resources, and opportunities.