CCEDT Accepting Applications Now for Second Caroline County Business Academy: Application Period Extended through April 14, 2026
Caroline County Economic Development and Tourism is excited to announce the second cohort of Economic Edge: The Caroline County Business Academy. This innovative program was designed to empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and support needed to successfully grow and manage their small businesses in Caroline County.
At WHC, we believe in the power of Caroline County’s entrepreneurs. That’s why we’ve enhanced this second cohort of EDGE with cutting-edge techniques and tools designed to automate daily tasks, bring more value to customers, and create more jobs in the region. This year, we’ve leveled up the curriculum with a deep dive into AI solutions, giving business owners the edge they need to streamline operations and win more federal, state and local contracts. Partnering with Caroline County Economic Development & Tourism allows us to put these powerful resources directly into the hands of local leaders, ensuring they are fully equipped to thrive in 2026.” – Will Holmes
There is no cost to participants. Eight classes will run on Tuesdays from April 21 to June 9 from 6 to 9 p.m.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Caroline County Economic Development invites small businesses to apply to Economic Edge: The Caroline County Business Academy, a business training and education program led by Will Holmes Consulting.
This Free 8-week program meets via Zoom.
Eight classes will run on Tuesdays from April 21 to June 9 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Session topics include:
- Building sustainable organizational infrastructure
- Leading people and planning for growth
- Marketing and selling B2G, B2B, and B2C
- Accounting, human resources, legal, taxes, and insurance
- Preparing for capital and essential financial documentation
About Will Holmes Consulting
This program is led by renowned business coach Will Holmes of Will Holmes Consulting (WHC), an award-winning advisory firm that has helped over 12,000 entrepreneurs since 2006 and developed technical solutions for government agencies, financial institutions, and universities across the globe.
Will’s expertise has led him to be recognized as the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2024 Maryland Minority Business of the Year. He’s also the author of the acclaimed guide, “Find A Need. Fill A Need. Get Paid.” As Chairman Emeritus of the Baltimore City Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneur in Residence at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, Will’s influence is widespread. Over 600 business owners have graduated from his 8-week entrepreneurship with over 80% increasing revenue and creating jobs in their communities.
Will Holmes Consulting has made an impact on industries ranging from defense to music to logistics to financial services for more than 15 years. Their technical assistance and entrepreneurship training programs provide practical information that hundreds of business owners have implemented to access capital, grow revenue, hire staff and impact their local communities.
Space is limited to 15 people.
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PROGRAM FAQS
Who is this program for?
Economic Edge: The Caroline County Business Academy is for small businesses in Caroline County who would like to take education and training courses on how to increase revenue and sales, better manage and hire more people, create a sustainable business model, manage expenses and prepare to access capital.
What is the program cost?
This program is being offered free of charge to Caroline County small business owners and is funded through a partnership with the Mid-Shore Regional Council (MSRC) using a grant from the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF), administered by the Rural Maryland Council (RMC).
Who will teach the course?
The program will be led by renowned business coach Will Holmes, a driving force in the Maryland business community. Will is the founder of Will Holmes Consulting (WHC), an award-winning advisory firm that has helped over 12,000 entrepreneurs since 2006 and developed technical solutions for government agencies, financial institutions, and universities across the globe. Will’s expertise has led him to be recognized as the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2024 Maryland Minority Business of the Year. He’s also the author of the acclaimed guide, “Find A Need. Fill A Need. Get Paid.”
Will’s commitment to economic growth extends to his role as Founder of the Baltimore Economic Leadership League, a non-profit expanding opportunity for minority and women-owned businesses. As Chairman Emeritus of the Baltimore City Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneur in Residence at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, Will’s influence is widespread. Over 600 business owners have graduated from his 8-week entrepreneurship with over 80% increasing revenue and creating jobs in their communities.
In addition to Will Holmes, the program will also include Business Mentors with expertise in operations, marketing, human resources, law and accounting. Read more about the business mentors here.
What are the requirements for participants?
Applicants should be small business owners who have been in business for at least one year and who are in good standing with the Maryland State Department of Assessment and Taxations.
Participants must be able to attend and participate in all 8 sessions via Zoom, attend one-on-one sessions with mentors via Zoom and prepare a 15-minute PowerPoint presentation about their business and deliver their presentation via Zoom.
To graduate from the program and receive a Certificate of Completion, participants must attend and participate in each class, submit weekly assignments before the next class, meet with business mentors, present cash flow projections, prepare a practice presentation, and give a final 15-minute PowerPoint presentation.
What topics will be covered and what will I learn?
Weekly topics include:
- Introductions, Program Orientation, & Business Challenges
- Building a Sustainable Organization’s Infrastructure
- Leading People & Planning for Growth
- Marketing & Selling B2G, B2B, & B2C
- Accounting, Human Resources, Legal, Taxes & Insurance
- Preparing for Capital & Essential Financial Documentation
- Practice Final Presentations
- Presentations and Graduation
Graduates can expect to have a better understanding of their financial reports, a budget for their growth and a plan to pursue opportunities to attract new clients and access capital from lenders and investors.
Who can I contact for more information?
If you have questions about Economic Edge, please contact CCEDT Director Bob Zimberoff at rzimberoff@carolinemd.org.
How do I apply to Economic Edge?
If you are a Caroline County small business that been operating for at least one year, we invite you to complete an application when they open.