Goldman Sachs’ One Million Black Women initiative continues to empower Black women entrepreneurs across the United States with its Black in Business program. This free, intensive business education program is designed specifically for sole proprietors looking to grow their business, improve financial literacy, and scale their operations. Applications for the Fall 2026 cohort are now open.
About the Black in Business Program
Black in Business is a 12-week online business education program created to provide practical tools and insights that help entrepreneurs take their business potential and turn it into measurable growth. The program combines online learning with in-person experiences at Goldman Sachs’ New York City headquarters, offering participants a comprehensive curriculum, mentorship, and networking opportunities, all fully funded by Goldman Sachs.
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The program emphasizes helping entrepreneurs:
- Price products and services effectively
- Manage finances and maximize profits
- Hire their first employee
- Access capital and funding opportunities
- Build sustainable business operations
Through strategic guidance and peer networking, participants gain the confidence and knowledge to expand their business impact and economic influence within their communities.
Eligibility Criteria
The Black in Business program is designed for sole proprietors with a revenue-generating business. Eligible applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Operate as a sole proprietorship (no full-time employees)
- Generate a minimum of $25,000 revenue in the past 12 months
- Have an active business generating revenue for at least one year
- Demonstrate interest in job creation, community impact, and economic growth
This program ensures participants are ready to commit to meaningful growth and can implement the strategies learned to expand their businesses successfully.
Program Commitment
Participants should expect to dedicate 9–12 hours per week to online learning, which is structured to provide flexibility around personal and professional commitments. Program highlights include:
- Developing a business action plan with guidance from mentors
- Presenting strategies and receiving feedback from advisors
- In-person orientation and graduation sessions at Goldman Sachs HQ
- Connecting with experienced mentors, advisors, and business leaders
The combination of online learning and hands-on mentorship ensures that entrepreneurs leave the program equipped to make tangible business improvements.
Curriculum Overview
The Black in Business curriculum is developed in collaboration with NYU Stern School of Business and covers core topics necessary for business growth:
- Positioning for Growth – Understanding your market and competitive advantage
- Mastering the Art of Customer Attraction – Strategies for acquiring and retaining clients
- Keys to Effective Marketing – Optimizing promotional activities and digital presence
- Optimizing Operations for Growth – Streamlining processes and systems
- Managing Financial Statements – Understanding cash flow, balance sheets, and income statements
- Financial Planning & Projection – Preparing for long-term growth and sustainability
- Pricing & Profits – Setting profitable pricing strategies
- Access to Capital – Learning funding options and preparing for investment
Participants apply these lessons to real-world scenarios, ensuring they can implement changes immediately within their own businesses.
Program Timeline
The Fall 2026 cohort runs from September through December 2026. While exact dates may shift slightly, participants should plan for full engagement across the 12-week program.
Apply Now!
How to Apply
The application process takes roughly 15 minutes and requires:
- Business information, including revenue, description, services, and target customers
- Explanation of why you want to join the program
- Supporting documents such as Schedule C, federal business tax return, or last year’s profit and loss statement
Applications must be submitted by Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST. Accepted participants will join a growing network of over 1,600 alumni, with 65% reporting revenue growth since completing the program in Spring 2024.
Apply to gain access to business mentorship, strategic guidance, and a powerful network to take your sole proprietorship to the next level.
For more information, visit the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women: Black in Business.
