ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) proudly announces the graduation of 19 entrepreneurs from the 2024 SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined program -Alaska cohort.  This marks the culmination of an intensive six-month journey that united small business owners and bolster their capabilities by preparing them for future challenges.   
 
The T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined program, an acronym for Train, Hope, Rise, Innovate, Venture, Elevate, is designed to equip small business owners with the crucial skills and knowledge needed to expand and enhance their operations. The 2024 SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. program engaged participants from over 67 cohorts, nationwide, who worked with experienced business coaches and followed a subject matter expert-led online curriculum that included leadership training, strategic planning, and financial management. Additionally, participants attended eight in-person “CEO Conversations” sessions within their local cohorts, where they networked with peers and tackled case studies to directly apply their learning to their businesses. The program's unique blend of online modules and in-person sessions enabled participants to develop comprehensive growth strategies tailored to their specific business needs.
 
“As a recent graduate of the SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. program, I can attest to its powerful impact on the way I approach leading my staff and growing my business. The course positively impacted us as early as the very first session, with words of wisdom from the leaders and Subject Matter Experts and the practical tools provided in the course materials.  I now engage my staff in a more proactive way and empower them to step up and feel ownership over the direction of our business,” said Jennifer Gordon, co-founder of Blue Market AK.  “I can see the difference already!  Also, by getting to know the other participants in the Alaska cohort, I feel supported, as if I am not alone, in this journey of entrepreneurship.  Lastly, my business partner and I feel more confident in pursuing our goals and achieving the smaller milestones.  Throughout the duration of the course, we were encouraged to focus ON the business just as much as IN the business and, as a result, we feel a renewed excitement about the direction we are headed.  Thank you for including me and Blue Market AK in this powerful course”
 
“When the idea of participating in the SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. program came about, I didn't really know what I was getting myself into. Now that I have completed the program, I am grateful to the person who suggested I participate. The Modules that are provided by the SBA T.H.R.I.V.E.  are beneficial and can help a small business succeed. They helped me realize my strengths and understand my weaknesses and other areas where I could benefit from others' expertise. The material was amazing and the cohort of small business owners participating in the program was inspiring, I was able to learn so much from their experiences. To witness the determination of others trying to make their business succeed helped me put into focus my desire to run a successful business. The time required to complete the program was sometimes difficult, but every minute I spent on the modules and classes was worth it for the education that they provided,” said Lewis Jones, owner of Pacific Tile Supply.
 
In 2024, the program featured three Surge Sessions - short, elective educational modules taught in partnership with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from nationally recognized companies. One notable session, 'How to Get Into Government Contracting with the SBA,' was led by the U.S. Small Business Administration itself. This session highlights the SBA's commitment to supporting small business owners by equipping them with the essential knowledge and tools needed to successfully engage in government contracting.
 
“Thank for the opportunity to attend the SBA Alaska T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders program.  This is a "must attend" program.  This is a densely compiled educational business training program taught by top Subject Matter Experts.  If your desire is to improve or grow your business, T.H.R.I.V.E. will positively change the trajectory of your entity.  T.H.R.I.V.E. is an opportunity your business cannot afford to miss”, said Zac Hennard, owner of Hennard Tile and Stone.
 
As SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. moves forward, plans for the 2025 program are already well underway, promising an enhanced curriculum and extended reach to support more small business owners across the nation. Participants can look forward to continued support through the program's CEO Conversations, Surge Sessions, and business coaching, ensuring that each entrepreneur receives the personalized mentorship and guidance needed to scale their businesses effectively and sustainably. The 2025 program will also feature an expanded online curriculum with modules covering essential aspects of business management, including strategic planning, financial literacy, and innovative marketing strategies.
 
“The SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. program is more than just a learning experience—it’s a catalyst for growth, innovation, and transformation,” said Steve Brown, SBA Alaska District Director. “Seeing these 19 Alaska entrepreneurs complete this journey and emerge with new strategies, confidence, and a stronger business foundation is inspiring. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and through T.H.R.I.V.E., we are equipping them with the tools and connections to succeed in a competitive marketplace. We celebrate their hard work and look forward to seeing their continued success."
 
Congratulations to our 2024 SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. Graduates!