South Florida entrepreneurs and small business owners invited to apply for the Jim Moran Institute’s Small Business Executive Program, with a deadline set for March 31

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship, part of the prestigious Florida State University Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship, is now accepting applications for its highly regarded Small Business Executive Program (SBEP) for Fall 2025. This unique and valuable opportunity is being offered at no cost to participants, thanks to funding from The Jim Moran Foundation and the generosity of Jan Moran and her late husband, automotive pioneer Jim Moran. Entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders in South Florida are invited to apply by the deadline, Monday, March 31, for a chance to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Jennifer Kovach, director of the Jim Moran Institute’s South Florida operations, expressed her excitement about the program’s continued success. “This year marks an incredible achievement for the Jim Moran Institute; it’s our 30th anniversary! Over the years, we’ve been honored to work with so many of the state’s inspiring entrepreneurs to give them the tools to run their organizations more efficiently and successfully,” Kovach said. She further encouraged South Florida business leaders to take advantage of this incredible educational opportunity, adding, “If you are an entrepreneur or small business leader in South Florida, I invite you to check out our Executive Programs and join the nearly 800 professionals who have graduated from our classes.”

The SBEP is specifically tailored for CEOs, entrepreneurs, business owners, and presidents of small businesses who are looking to advance their leadership abilities and improve their management practices. Since its inception in 2013, the program has graduated 49 classes, guiding professionals from various industries in their journey to enhance their businesses. Graduates leave the program equipped with a wealth of knowledge and strategies that can turn business challenges into opportunities for growth and success.

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The program spans nine engaging sessions that each focus on a critical aspect of managing and expanding a business or nonprofit. These sessions, which take place from July through November, are held bi-weekly at the Jim Moran Institute’s office in Broward County. Classes run from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., offering a comprehensive and structured approach to leadership development. Participants learn best practices in management, financial strategy, marketing, and more, ensuring they are well-prepared to lead their organizations to new heights.

“I absolutely recommend this program. Regardless of the experience one may have, you will still learn about new issues or refresh on the core. What I found most beneficial to my business was, primarily, guidance on subjects that we can apply to our business today as well as networking and resources,” said Kennya Quesada, president of Car Depot, who graduated from the SBEP and shared her positive experience with the program. She emphasized the practical value of the program’s lessons, particularly in helping participants apply new concepts immediately to their businesses.

To be eligible for the SBEP, applicants must be the key decision-maker of their business, actively involved in the day-to-day management of their organization. Additionally, their company must have been in operation for at least three years and employ three or more individuals. This ensures that participants are business leaders who are ready to take their organizations to the next level. Upon completing the program, graduates receive a certificate of completion and become part of an ongoing peer roundtable, allowing them to continue learning from one another. They are also encouraged to take part in workshops, conferences, and other events hosted by the Jim Moran Institute.

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For those interested in applying to the Fall 2025 SBEP, the application process is simple and can be done online. Interested candidates should visit the program’s dedicated webpage at jimmoraninstitute.fsu.edu/programs/small-business-executive-program/south-florida to submit their application before the March 31 deadline. For further information about the program or other opportunities offered by the Jim Moran Institute, individuals can contact the South Florida office at [email protected] or call 954-546-2735.

The Jim Moran Institute’s Small Business Executive Program continues to be a powerful tool for fostering business growth and development in South Florida. By providing invaluable resources and networking opportunities, the program supports local entrepreneurs in achieving their goals and overcoming obstacles. This initiative, backed by the generosity of Jan Moran and the legacy of Jim Moran, empowers small business leaders to thrive and make lasting impacts in their communities. With its 30th anniversary on the horizon, the Jim Moran Institute remains a vital resource for entrepreneurs seeking to elevate their businesses and contribute to the broader economic success of the region.