CState welcomed 32 local entrepreneurs to “10,000 Small Businesses” program for 2025
In January 2025, Cincinnati State welcomed 32 local small business owners to the sixth cohort of the Greater Cincinnati Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) program.
Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus, Cincinnati State President Dr. Monica Posey, officials from JobsOhio, and other dignitaries addressed the new 10KSB scholars at the January 17 reception on Clifton Campus, sponsored by. Jobs Ohio.
- The 2025 group of 10KSB scholars represent businesses including food and beverage, electrical contracting, optometry, financial services, mental health counseling, and many other fields.
- The 13-week business growth program is free for participants and provides them with greater access to education, financial capital, and business support services. Graduates become part of the 10KSB Alumni Network, which offers ongoing education and networking.
To be chosen for the program, small business owners must complete a competitive application process. Criteria include operating their business for at least two years, with at least two full-time employees, and a minimum of $75,000 in annual revenues. In addition, program applicants must demonstrate they are “passionate about growing their business and creating jobs in their communities.”
Cincinnati State’s Workforce Development Center began facilitating 10,000 Small Businesses programs in 2019. The 2025 group is the largest number of participants since the Greater Cincinnati program began.
Goldman Sachs funds the 10KSB program, which has assisted over 15,000 small businesses nationwide in the past six years. Locally, the Cincinnati State 10KSB program has over 110 graduates whose companies have combined revenues of more than $140 million and 1,500 employees.
Applications are open for the next group of 10KSB scholars, for a cohort starting in January 2026. If you have questions or want to learn more about the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, contact program director Sarah Allen at sarah.allen@cincinnatistate.edu.
