Campus News

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Partners with Great Falls College to Bring Small Business Education Program to Montana

Dr. Stephanie Erdmann, CEO and dean of Great Falls College, is excited about the partnership with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program.

GREAT FALLS, Mont. — As part of its $100 million Investment in Rural Communities, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses and Great Falls College are partnering to bring the results-oriented training program to Montana small business owners.

 For more than a decade, the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program has helped entrepreneurs nationwide grow their businesses by offering a free, practical business training program, access to capital and personalized support services. In 2023, the program launched a $100 million expansion into rural communities, which plans to reach rural small business owners in 20 states over five years.

 “We are thrilled to collaborate with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses to empower Montana entrepreneurs in expanding their businesses and enriching their communities,” said Dr. Stephanie Erdmann, CEO and dean of Great Falls College. “Small businesses truly are the lifeblood of Montana’s economy, and we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to support Goldman Sachs in launching this program here.”

 “Small businesses drive economic growth in Montana, and we are excited to bring our education program to entrepreneurs across the state, in partnership with Great Falls College,” said Anne Wellde, national director of 10,000 Small Businesses. “Together, we can equip small business owners with the tools they need to grow and create jobs across Montana.”

 Through this free program, participants gain practical skills including negotiation, marketing and employee management that can immediately be implemented. Additionally, participating small business owners receive the tools and professional support necessary to develop a strategic and customized growth plan that can help take their business to the next level.

 Across the United States, 10,000 Small Businesses graduates are increasing their revenues and creating new jobs in their communities. Recent survey data found that following completion of the program, 60% of rural small business owners reported adding new jobs, 68% reported increased revenues and 84% believe their business is more resilient.

 Selected applicants will gain access to business education and connections to a professional support network at no cost. Small business owners interested in taking their business to the next level can learn more and apply for the free program online. Applications are being accepted through Dec. 1, and the three-month program begins in March. Classes are delivered in-person and online, and all costs are fully covered by the Goldman Sachs Foundation. 

Additional details are available online at https://gs.com/10ksb-montana.