Wake Tech Contractors Academy

The Wake Tech Contractors Academy is a 10-week training program specifically for small, minority- and women-owned businesses in Wake County interested in pursuing contracting opportunities. The program will help participants develop their business to increase capacity and compete at a higher level in the public sector. Participants will network with industry leaders and learn from industry experts.

The academy is a collaboration between Wake Tech's HUB Program, Entrepreneurship Initiatives and Small Business Center, along with the Wake County Public School System HUB Program and a number of community and corporate partners. 

What do the classes cover?

• Contracting – The Essentials and Negotiation
• Develop a Growth Strategy for Contracting in the Public Sector
• Understanding Market Research
• The Value of Networking
• Supply Chain Management
• Money Management and the Cost of Doing Business

Eligibility criteria

• In business for at least three years
• Filed tax returns under your business
• Have an interest in pursuing public sector contracts
• Reside in or have a business in Wake County
• Sell a good or service commonly purchased by public agencies at a competitive price, such as facilities and construction; industrial products and services; janitorial or security services; plywood and lumber; information technology; and transportation and logistics services.

Class details

When:
6 - 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays
February 8 - April 12, 2023

Where:
Beltline Education Center
Room 406D
3200 Bush St., Raleigh

Cost:
$100 (up to two representatives per business)

How to apply

• NOTE: The deadline to apply for the 2023 academy has passed.
• Applicants must complete one free counseling session with the Small Business Center by January 11. When you schedule your session, be sure to tell your counselor that you've applied.
• All applicants will be notified by January 25 via their provided email if they have been accepted into the academy. Payment instructions will be included with the acceptance email.