Applications for Cohort 12 of the B-Smart Entrepreneur Program Are Now Open!
Why B-Smart Matters
This short video shares why the B-Smart Entrepreneur Program exists and features reflections from Cohort 11—highlighting the mindset shifts, community connections, and real-world skills gained during their journey.
Our Story
Business Smart (B-Smart) was created in 2017 to meet a real and urgent need: too many early-stage entrepreneurs—especially in West and Southwest Philadelphia—were launching businesses without access to the tools, training, or support needed to succeed.
Without trusted guidance, many struggled to price their services, manage cash flow, or clarify who they were serving. They were doing everything alone—hustling hard but feeling stuck. This lack of structure often led to burnout, stalled growth, and missed opportunities.
B-Smart was built to change that. In partnership with the West Philadelphia Corridor Collaborative, Drexel University, and VestedIn, the program offers 14 weeks of intensive, hands-on business training, expert coaching, and a community of peers—to help entrepreneurs get clear, get confident, and grow on solid ground.

B-Smart founders Jabari Jones and Kevin Williams were presented with awards at the 2024 Pitch and Present for their vision and commitment to economic empowerment—pictured here with Program Director and Cohort 6 alumna Precious Samuel.
About the Program
Business Smart (B-Smart) is a 14-week intensive training program for early-stage entrepreneurs, combining structured, hands-on business education, expert coaching, and peer collaboration to build strong business foundations, develop a clear growth strategy, and strengthen the mindset needed for long-term success.
Hosted at Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business, B-Smart offers a structured, immersive learning experience with access to course materials and assignments through Drexel’s Blackboard platform. The program concludes with a public Pitch and Present competition, where select entrepreneurs present their business models to a panel of investors and community leaders—receiving valuable feedback and the opportunity to earn small business growth grants.

Who Should Apply
If you’ve already started your business but are facing challenges with building a strong foundation, managing cash flow, refining your target market, and positioning your brand, the B-Smart Entrepreneur Program is here to help you gain the clarity and confidence needed to grow your business. This program is also ideal if you’re looking to learn how to pitch to investors and create a financial package to secure funding.
With only 25 spots available, this exclusive opportunity is ideal for founders and business owners who are ready to refine their strategies and grow their businesses.
We welcome applications from early-stage businesses across Philadelphia.
Entrepreneurs located in or doing business in Southwest and West Philadelphia are especially encouraged to apply.
Key Dates
- Applications Open – Monday, June 2, 2025
- Application Deadline – Monday, June 30, 2025 by 11:59 pm
- Applicant Notification – July 8, 2025-July 10, 2025
- Orientation – Saturday, August 5, 2025
Program Run Information
- In-Person Sessions: Every Saturday from August 2 to November 8, 2025 (except for August 30). Session Time: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM
- Community Office Hours: Optional. Bi-weekly, every Tuesday from 7:00-8:00 PM (Virtual)
For additional time commitment, please see the ‘What You Need to Know” section
Program Learning Outcomes: What You’ll Walk Away With
By the end of the program, you will:
- Gain Clarity: Understand your business’s strengths, challenges, and growth potential.
- Strengthen Cash Flow: Learn practical strategies for managing your money and planning for long-term success.
- Build a Roadmap: Create a refined business plan and polished pitch deck to support your goals.
- Smart Pricing: Learn to price for profit, increase sales, and boost your bottom line.
- Refine Your Pitch: Practice and perfect your story to confidently present your business to investors.
- Define Your Brand: Identify your target market and craft a strategy to reach the right customer.
- Prepare for Capital: Gain the tools and knowledge to pursue funding and develop a loan package.
- Expand Your Network: Connect with a supportive community of peers, mentors, and industry leaders.

Cohort 2024: Program Outcomes & Impact

Donate to support small business growth and education
Sponsorship opportunities available
Interested in sponsoring the 2025 program? Please contact our program team at bsmart@vestedin.org.