Школа бизнеса в графстве Тэлбот получила международную награду за поддержку предпринимателей

EASTON — Talbot County’s efforts to help local entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses have earned international recognition. The International Economic Development Council honored Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism’s Talbot Works Business Academy through its 2026 Excellence in Economic Development Awards. The academy was recognized in the council’s Entrepreneurial and Small Business Development category. “The Business Academy is an investment in the economic future of Talbot County,” said Talbot County Council member Keasha Haythe. “I am proud to help build an initiative that empowers residents, strengthens our local economy, and creates opportunities for generations to come.” Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism created the academy to provide established small and minority-owned businesses with advanced training in financial management, pricing, operations, human resources, marketing and growth planning. The eight-week program helps owners move from working primarily in their businesses to working strategically on them. Participants generally have operated for at least two years and generate revenue but need stronger systems, financial discipline or professional support to grow. Fifty business owners have graduated from four cohorts. Graduates have opened six businesses and created 15 jobs, while eight have added contract employees. Participants also reported more than $600,000 in capital investments for growth, equipment and expansion. Four graduates secured the largest contracts in their companies’ histories after completing the program, including one worth nearly $1 million. “The numbers matter because successful businesses need owners who understand their numbers,” said Will Holmes, founder of Will Holmes Consulting and academy facilitator. “We work with entrepreneurs on pricing, cash flow, revenue goals, hiring capacity, customer acquisition, and profitability using their own businesses as the classroom.” The virtual program connects participants with professionals in accounting, banking, law, insurance, human resources, marketing and business operations. Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism hosts the academy, recruits participants and advocates for the program. Will Holmes Consulting develops the curriculum and leads the training. The Mid-Shore Regional Council provides funding through the Rural Maryland Council’s Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund, allowing participants to attend at no cost. The Maryland Rural Economic Development Fund supported the first two cohorts. The Maryland Small Business Development Center and Talbot County Chamber of Commerce serve as referral partners. Talbot Works plans to welcome another academy cohort this winter. Talbot County business owners and entrepreneurs may sign up for announcements at www.talbotworks.org/BusinessAcademy.