In the latest episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee Williams sits down with Jacki Boldt, the Executive Director of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program in Iowa. Since its arrival eight years ago, the program has evolved from a “pop-up” initiative into a cornerstone of Iowa’s economic development landscape.
More Than Just a Business Course
While many accelerators focus on “back of the napkin” ideas, Jacki explains that this program is specifically designed for established businesses ready to scale. The goal isn’t just to do “more of the same,” but to empower “scholars” to identify new markets, services, or products.
To be eligible, a business typically needs:
- At least two years in operation.
- A minimum of two employees (including the owner).
- At least $75,000 in annual sales.
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Real Results for Iowa Founders
The program’s impact is backed by impressive data. Nationally, about 66% of participants increase revenues and 40% add jobs within just six months of graduation. In Iowa, the program boasts a community of roughly 400 alumni across every industry imaginable—from tech and manufacturing to dog boarding and rail car repair.
Join the Next Cohort
The program is tuition-free for accepted applicants. It follows a 12-week hybrid model, requiring a commitment of 10–12 hours per week. While the schedule is rigorous, the rewards are significant; Jacki shared a story of a recent alum who doubled her business within a year of graduating.
Applications for the Fall cohort are open now through June 1st. If you’re ready to move your business from “established” to “exponential,” this might be your next big step.