Entrepreneurs interested in participating in the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Emerging 200 (e200) program are invited to attend a networking event on March 3 in Des Moines.

The e200 program is a national initiative started by the SBA in 2007 to provide training and resources to high-potential inner-city businesses in selected municipalities. Des Moines has been among the cities chosen to participate in each of the past three years, and the SBA has announced it will again offer the program this year to qualified small business owners in Des Moines. 

The in-depth educational program will be provided in two half-day sessions per month beginning April 14 through the end of October. The classes will focus on topics such as finance, growth strategies and management, market development and strategic planning.

Participation in e200 is free to qualifying businesses. Criteria for participation include:
    • In business for a minimum of three years;
    • $400,000 or more in gross annual revenues; and
    • Operate a business location in the city of Des Moines.

The March 3 reception will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at Neighborhood Development Corp., 210 Des Moines St. Attendees can come at any time to get more information on the program, meet this year’s instructor, network with e200 alumni and visit with program co-sponsors.

For more information on the program or to register for the reception, contact the SBA office in Des Moines at (515) 284-4522 or send an e-mail to Dave Lentell at thomas.lentell@sba.gov.