'StreetWise MBA'™

Program Overview

The ‘StreetWise MBA’™ is delivered directly by Interise in communities across Massachusetts, and is the gateway to joining the StreetWise Network™.

The benefits of the program include access to new markets, capital, and knowledge through management training, peer-to-peer learning, networking opportunities, access to the Private Sector Network, and inclusion in the Interise StreetWise Network™. Unlike most other small business development programs, the 'StreetWise MBA' is designed specifically for existing small businesses - not start-ups.

Taught by instructors with experience running a business, as well as educating entrepreneurs, the 'StreetWise MBA'™ covers topics such as:

  • business development
  • strategic planning
  • access to capital
  • government contracts
  • finance
  • marketing and sales
  • human resources

 At the end of the program, each business owner emerges with a certificate in Small Business Entrepreneurship from Boston University's Entrepreneurial Management Institute and a Strategic Growth Action Plan™ - a three-year plan designed by each small business owner outlining business goals and the specific action steps necessary to achieve them.

Entrepreneur Support and Benefits

To achieve our mission, we must do more than simply offer a curriculum for established small business owners. Because many of our entrepreneurs lack access to important individuals and networks that make growth possible, the ‘StreetWise MBA’™ also includes access to Interise’s Private Sector Network (PSN), networking events and opportunities, and incremental learning through seminars.

The Private Sector Network (PSN), a critical component of our model, is Interise’s “instant rolodex” of volunteer business experts.  These bankers, lawyers, and other professionals donate their services pro-bono to StreetWise™ entrepreneurs, offering their expertise and strategic guidance as members develop their growth plans.

By offering entrepreneurs key connections in the business world, PSN members present entrepreneurs with access to important networks and resources. All Interise entrepreneurs receive a PSN directory and are encouraged to reach out to PSN members as they progress through the curriculum. In addition, PSN members attend Interise workshops and seminars; sit on growth plan presentation panels; and offer feedback and suggestions to the entrepreneurs.

StreetWise Network™ in Massachusetts

By working and collaborating with other Interise members, our community helps each other grow and create jobs.

Upon enrolling in the ‘StreetWise MBA’™ program, each participant gains access to our StreetWise Network™ of businesses and various resource partners.

This also includes access to our Interise member directory, educational webinars, various networking events, CEO Groups, the PSN, and seminars.