Rural Business Growth Accelerator 2026

RBGA 2026 Workshops 

Venue: Southeastern Community College 

4564 Chadbourn Hwy, Whiteville, NC 28472

Cartret Building - Room 164

Please click the link below to RSVP. Bring as many guests as you'd like. This event is no charge, and packed with resources. Businesses that attend all 4 sessions will be eligible for awards and grants at the end of the year. 

Workshop dates:

3/21/26, 1:30-3:30pm

6/20/26, 1:30-3:30pm

9/19/26, 10:00am-12:00pm

12/19/26, 1:30-3:30pm

Session Descriptions with Program Overview

Session 1: Business Foundations & Revenue Clarity

Build a Business That Actually Works

✔️In this session, participants will learn how to clarify their business idea, identify their target customer, and structure their business to generate real revenue. We'll explore the core questions every entrepreneur must answer to move from idea to income.

Session 2: Money, Funding & Financial Readiness

Understanding the Numbers

✔️Participants will gain a clearer understanding of startup costs, pricing, profit, and funding opportunities. This session will also cover how to prepare for grants, loans, and other financial resources available to entrepreneurs.

Session 3: Marketing That Brings Customers

Visibility = Opportunity

✔️This session focuses on practical marketing strategies that help small businesses get noticed and attract customers. Participants will learn how to build a strong brand presence, leverage social media, and use both local and online marketing to increase visibility and sales.

Session 4: Growth Strategy & Business Systems

Building a Sustainable Business

✔️In this final session, participants will explore the systems and strategies needed to grow and sustain their business. Topics include productivity, partnerships, operational systems, and planning for long-term growth.

About RBGA:

RBGA is committed to helping entrepreneurs not only start businesses, but build businesses that last. By connecting participants with practical tools, community support, and growth strategies, the program helps cultivate stronger entrepreneurs and stronger rural communities.

“Turning Rural Ideas into Thriving Businesses.”