The transition from a startup to a thriving enterprise is marked by a dynamic mix of challenges and opportunities. Birmingham Business Alliance's Supplier Scale program is a complimentary six-month program designed to empower entrepreneurs to overcome hurdles and keep growing. Now in its second year, this program is created in partnership with Prosper and made possible by Jefferson County.
BBA partnered with Interise, a national not-for-profit with award-winning small business programs, to offer Supplier Scale. Led by industry experts and seasoned executives using Interise’s StreetWise ‘MBA’ curriculum, the program gives local small business owners the knowledge, know-how and networks needed for business growth and expansion.
Topics Covered:
Business development strategies
Strategic planning
Finance and financial management
Marketing/sales
Human resources
Accessing capital
Contracting with the government & major corporations
“These small businesses represent the backbone of our community. Their work spans across sectors and their efforts have an undeniable impact on improving our local economy. We commend their dedication and are proud that they call the Greater Birmingham Region home,” said Steve Ammons, President and CEO of Birmingham Business Alliance.
This second cohort represented a diverse group of 21 individuals across industries who completed the Supplier Scale program.
Supplier Scale Cohort 2 Graduates:
Aisha Taylor - Bridge + Root
Alisha Jiwani - Nia Health, PLLC; Nia Benefit Corporation
Amber Jones - Life Key Financial Group, Incorporated
Danielle Ridgeway - Covering Your Assets LLC
Deborah Lumpkins - Diamond Trucking LLC
DeMarcus Rodgers - Kuntri Kitchen
Edward Everett - Likeminds, LLC; The Pixel Room, LLC
Janette Hall - Nette's Growth Serum
Jason Burroughs - C & B Transportation Systems, Inc
Kendra Jenkins - The Computer Consulting Group, LLC
Kendrick Russell - All Seasons Heating & Cooling LLC
Kelli Caulfield - NOLA ICE BROAD ST
Lovella Jones - Education Solutions
Michael Gunn - ACE CDL School LLC/ Signature Express LLC
Tavares Ward - New Metro Auto Service
Teco & Tazmine Stephens - 3 Way Cleaning Company
TJ Halsey - Oasis Senior Advisors Birmingham
Tiffanie Reed - ARK WinGS Gym
Vanessa Vargas - Latino News, LLC
Wesley Samuels - Grindhouse
Whitney Generette - Simone's Kitchen ATL
As we celebrate the accomplishments of our Supplier Scale program graduates, we extend our gratitude to the partners who have provided support and resources. These organizations have played a crucial role in making this year’s program a success:
Alamerica Bank
Allison
Birmingham Airport Authority
Birmingham Business Resource Center
Community Bank
First Bank
Hope Credit Union
Smart Bank
"Supplier Scale isn't just a program; it's a community for small businesses in Birmingham,” said JC Matthews, director of BBA’s Supplier Scale program. “Through collaboration and education, we're equipping entrepreneurs with the tools they need to shape their own success stories.”