COCC opens applications for 2026-27 Small Business Management Program

Bend, ORE. (KTVZ) --- Central Oregon Community College's Small Business Development Center is accepting applications for its 2026-27 Small Business Management Program. The nine-month program is designed for established business owners looking to address challenges and develop strategies for growth.

The program combines business coaching, peer learning and real-world case studies with individual advising from center staff. Participants work on a strategic project for their business, culminating in a live pitch competition for a share of a $6,500 prize pool. Tuition is $1,499 per person.

To qualify, businesses must have been in operation for at least one year, submit monthly financial statements and be prepared to work on their business throughout the course. The curriculum uses a flipped-classroom model where participants analyze case studies from active businesses and work in small peer feedback groups.

Group meetings are scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon on the second Wednesday of each month from October 2026 through June 2027. Most sessions will take place at Citizens4Community's The Hub in Sisters. The opening session and final pitch competition will be held on the college's campus in Bend.

In addition to group sessions, participants will receive one hour of individual advising each month from Keith Sherrill, coordinator of the Small Business Management Program at Central Oregon Community College. Participants will also have access to advisers across the Small Business Development Center.

“Running a small business means making important decisions every day, often without the benefit of a team of people to work through them with,” Sherrill said. “This program gives owners the space to step away from the day-to-day, learn from other entrepreneurs and really dig into a challenge or opportunity within their own business. The goal is for participants to leave each session with something they can immediately put to work.”

Applications for the program are due Sept. 30, with acceptance decisions scheduled for Oct. 7. The program begins Oct. 14.