LARGO, MD — Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation is partnering with M&T Bank for a Small Business Accelerator Program and is looking for as many as 25 small business owners to participate in a new business accelerator program designed to provide entrepreneurs with the guidance and skills needed to build strong companies, spur economic growth in Prince George’s County and help build generational wealth for their families.
The eight-week business accelerator program -- a partnership between M&T Bank, FSC First and Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) -- will focus on business planning, sourcing capital, establishing credit, managing bank accounts, marketing, branding, and licensing.
The program launches Sept. 26 with a hybrid mix of courses held virtually and in person at various locations in the county. The program concludes Nov. 14 with a graduation and award ceremony for the winners of the pitch competition, resulting in cash prizes for the finalists.
“Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation is proud to partner with FSC First and M&T Bank to help expand and attract business in Prince George’s County,” said David Iannucci, President & CEO of Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation. “This next iteration of the M&T Bank Business Accelerator Program builds upon the impact made from our recent partnership from the Latino Business Accelerator program to continuously provide support and resources to the entire Prince George’s County business community. Expansion starts here.”
Entrepreneurs interested in participating must complete an application by Sept. 15, be based in Prince George’s County, in operation at least two years and be in good standing. Qualified applicants will be enrolled in the free program on a first-come, first-served basis.
"We are excited about the unique partnership between M&T, FSC First and Prince George's EDC,” said Dawn Medley, FSC First President & CEO. “The program will equip local entrepreneurs with essential skills and access to valuable mentorship, fostering their increased business success. FSC First is committed to empowering entrepreneurs in underserved communities, and we see this accelerator program and partnership as another way to better serve our community.”
This is the second business accelerator program M&T Bank has sponsored in Prince George’s County this year. In June, M&T and Prince George’s County Economic Development Corp. (EDC) wrapped up a seven-week business accelerator program for Latino-owned businesses that was held entirely in Spanish. It was M&T’s first business accelerator program offered in a language other than English.
M&T also offers similar accelerator programs in Montgomery, Howard and Frederick counties as well as Baltimore City.
“In partnership with Prince George's County, M&T Bank is thrilled to offer the Business Accelerator Program, which provides local entrepreneurs with the resources to help their businesses thrive,” Jim Peterson, M&T Bank’s VP and Small Business Ambassador. The program’s curriculum is designed to offer small business owners mentorship opportunities, to enhance their chances of success in a competitive business landscape, drive local economic growth and help build generational wealth.”
To apply for the Prince George’s Business Accelerator Program, click here.
About Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation
Celebrating 40 years, the mission of the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy that supports the growth and prosperity of entrepreneurs and businesses dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation.
About M&T Bank
M&T Bank Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T's principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services in 12 states across the northeastern U.S. from Maine to Virginia and Washington, D.C. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the U.S. and abroad by M&T's Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. For more information about M&T Bank, visit www.mtb.com.
About FSC First
Founded in 1978, FSC First provides flexible business financing solutions and technical assistance programs to established and emerging businesses in Prince George’s County and the state of Maryland. FSC First stands apart as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) designated by the U.S. Treasury Department with a mission to stimulate the growth and development of the local economy.
