B-Smart Program – VestedIn (Formerly WPFSI)

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.

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Presented by VestedIn, Drexel University Beachell Family Learning Center, and WPCC.

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.

Our Mission

To increase the number of successful, sustainable businesses by expanding their access to knowledge, capital, and opportunities.

Our Vision

To create a thriving ecosystem where entrepreneurs have the confidence, capability, and access to opportunities needed to build resilient businesses that drive economic mobility and contribute to the growth of their communities.

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.

This program is designed for entrepreneurs who:

Operate for-profit businesses (nonprofits are ineligible)

Are actively operating a business in Philadelphia, with paying customers, early market traction, or some revenue

Have annual revenue under $1 million

Are committed to building strong business foundations and preparing for growth

Are ready to engage in peer learning and collaborate in a cohort setting

Have access to a reliable laptop and internet connection for course assignments and materials

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

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Sponsorship opportunities available

Interested in sponsoring the 2025 program? Please contact our program team at bsmart@vestedin.org.

What You Need to Know

Application Guidelines

Each business may submit only one application to ensure a fair selection process. The program is best suited for founders, decision-makers, and business leaders who are focused on growth and ready to take their company to the next level. With just 25 spots available, this is a highly competitive opportunity for entrepreneurs committed to fully participating in the 14-week program.

Application and Selection Process

To apply, complete the online application using a desktop or laptop for the best experience, and be sure to include a valid phone number and email address for communication throughout the process. During the review period, the program team may reach out to select applicants for brief follow-up calls, so it’s important that your contact information is accurate. If selected, you will receive an email invitation to join the program, and attendance at orientation is mandatory. Applicants placed on the waitlist will be notified if a spot becomes available within the first two weeks of the program.

Technology Requirement

Participants must have a reliable laptop, stable internet access, and be comfortable navigating online learning platforms to fully engage with the program.

Key Modules

The program curriculum covers a range of key topics including: Business Strategy & Planning; Target Market Clarity; Financial Management & Pricing Strategies; Sales & Marketing Techniques; Brand Development & Positioning; Business Development & Assessment Tools; Entrepreneurial Mindset & Leadership; Pitch Preparation; and Capital Readiness & Financial Packages.

Structure and Time Commitment of the program

The B-Smart Entrepreneur Program is a 14-week intensive experience combining expert-led instruction, peer support, and hands-on learning. Success requires active participation during sessions and dedicated time outside of class. The program begins with a mandatory orientation to set expectations and foster a collaborative environment. Weekly sessions are held on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM, covering essential topics such as financial management and brand strategy. Participants should plan for 3–5 hours of independent work each week for assignments, market research, community engagement, and applying program concepts. Cohort pods meet regularly in small groups for accountability and shared learning, while optional office hours are offered bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 7:00–8:00 PM for personalized support. Those participating in the final Pitch and Present event are required to attend both virtual and in-person pitch practice sessions. To qualify for funding opportunities, participants must demonstrate consistent attendance, active engagement, and timely completion of assignments.