If you are a sole proprietor running your business on your own and you know there is more growth available to you, this program was built for exactly where you are.
Goldman Sachs has officially opened applications for the fall 2026 cohort of its Black in Business program, a free 12 week business education initiative developed in partnership with the NYU Stern School of Business. The program is part of Goldman Sachs' broader One Million Black Women initiative and is designed to give sole proprietors the practical tools, knowledge, and network they need to grow their businesses, increase revenue, and create jobs in their communities.
The program is completely free. There is no tuition, no hidden fees, and no catch. It is fully funded and covers everything from pricing strategy and financial management to hiring your first employee and building a growth plan that actually works. According to Goldman Sachs' official program page, the fall 2026 cohort runs from September through December and includes both online learning and an in person component held at Goldman Sachs headquarters in New York City, with all expenses paid.
To be eligible, applicants must be a sole proprietor with no full time employees, at least one year in business, and a minimum of $25,000 in revenue over the past 12 months. According to Mona Ventures' April grant guide, spots fill quickly and applications are open now for the September start.
What makes this program stand out is not just the curriculum. It is the community. Past participants describe the experience as transformative not because of what they learned in class, but because of who they were in the room with. Black sole proprietors from across the country, all serious about growth, all bringing real experience and ambition, and all connected through a Goldman Sachs network that extends well beyond the 12 weeks. According to Opportunity Desk's overview of the program, participants also gain access to strategic advisors and a powerful peer network designed to guide business growth long after the cohort ends.
For Black business owners in the DMV, this is one of the highest value no cost opportunities available right now. The combination of world class business education from NYU Stern, mentorship from Goldman Sachs leadership, in person learning fully paid for, and a national network of fellow entrepreneurs is the kind of resource that most business owners pay significant money to access.
Applications are open now. The fall cohort fills fast. If you meet the eligibility requirements, apply today at the Goldman Sachs Black in Business application page and give your business the foundation it deserves.
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