Let Us Help You Work ON Your Business!
Created to be a world-class learning experience that accommodates the busy schedule of small business owners, the Small Business Executive Program (SBEP) is ideal for CEOs, entrepreneurs, presidents of small businesses, and immediate successors of businesses. Thanks to our supporters, this program is offered at no cost to the accepted participants.
What You Can Expect
Presented over five sessions, the Small Business Executive Program is designed to take into account your demanding schedule while enabling you to assess your company's position, develop long-term strategies, create practical action plans and connect with fellow business owners and members of the Jim Moran Institute’s network for advice and support.
Application & Schedule
Mandatory attendance is required for all class sessions. Click the button below to apply.
JACKSONVILLE SBEP CLASS XXI SCHEDULE – Spring 2027
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| December 4, 2026 | Application Deadline |
| December 11, 2026 | Notice of Acceptance |
| January 26, 2027 | Session 1 |
| February 2, 2027 | Session 2 |
| February 16, 2027 | Session 3 |
| March 2, 2027 | Session 4 |
| March 9, 2027 | Session 5 |
Key Program Components
Focused on business operations: Participants will work on key aspects of running a successful company. and gain valuable insights into thinking differently and streamlining operations for enhanced efficiency, including how to:
- Think more strategically — refine your business model, strengthen marketing, and plan for growth
- Improve day-to-day operations — better understand financials, reduce risk, and build systems that scale
- Maximize your team’s potential — enhance communication, strengthen engagement, and navigate HR effectively
Networking Opportunities: Participants will have the chance to network with other business leaders of similar size organizations. This fosters collaboration and idea exchange, enriching your perspective and expanding your professional network.
Expert Guest Speakers: The curriculum incorporates sessions led by experts in various fields, covering topics such as marketing, human resources, strategic thinking, effective operations, and leadership skills. These sessions serve as the program's foundation, providing actionable insights and strategies directly applicable to your organization.
In-Person Sessions: Sessions will be held in person over five four-hour sessions. Attendance at all sessions is expected to ensure maximum benefit from the program.
No Cost to Participate: Best of all, there is no cost associated with participation. This is an opportunity for business owners to invest in their professional development without a financial burden.
What the Program Covers
Focused on growth, leadership expertise, and strategic success, SBEP participants explore a range of topics:
Strategic Thinking: Business owners often struggle with determining how far and fast their organization should grow. Sometimes, the wrong decision could mean the end of the business. Choosing the right inner circle, knowing what the industry market can bear, and determining the right size for the organization are crucial to success.
Business Model Canvas: Utilizing this tool, participants can effectively pinpoint profitable customer segments, identify efficient revenue streams, create policies and procedures, communicate efficiently with staff, determine staffing needs, and be more confident in making strategic decisions for their company.
Marketing: Communicating to your customers through the Story Brand method can increase sales and clarify your message. Improved website strategies and effective online marketing strategies are also covered.
Human Resources: Employee management and staying updated with human resources laws can often be overwhelming. Participants learn about up-to-date policies and laws, discuss the challenges of finding good, qualified employees, and learn new strategies for managing employees.
Communication Strategies for the Workplace: Identifying and solving pain points in communications helps managers better work with and understand how to get their employees to be their most productive. These skills can also be used to better relate and work with customers.
Exit Strategy: All business owners will leave their company at some point…whether by choice or not. Being prepared for an exit can mean increased payout and generally a better value for the company.
Financial Analysis Tools & the SBDC: JMI has an agreement with the Small Business Development Center at UNF to provide Profit Sense financial analysis to participants on an individual basis. This will help participants get a better understanding of their financial standing and how that can affect their business outlook.
Mitigating Risk: The proper safety net is vital to longevity.
Standard Operating Procedures: Utilizing the proper procedures and operations makes for a smoother and more consistent workplace for the owner, employees, and customers.
For more information, contact:
Stephanie Royal, Director, Northeast Florida
Jim Moran Institute For Global Entrepreneurship
4651 Salisbury Road, Suite 151, Jacksonville, FL 32256
sroyal@jimmoraninstitute.fsu.edu
Phone: 850-645-3304
“The Jim Moran Institute's program was educational, challenging, and customized to my business needs and interests. The staff and speakers made this an invaluable experience for my professional growth and that of my business. I am so appreciative of their efforts.”
Margaret Meier
UltraShred Technologies, Inc.

