Business Programs & Initiatives

Empowering entrepreneurs and small businesses strengthens our communities.
When local business owners have access to resources, education, and support, they create sustainable growth that benefits everyone—from job seekers to neighborhood residents.

GCE connects Johns Hopkins' expertise, facilities, and resources with established business programs and initiatives, helping entrepreneurs access the tools they need to succeed.

By bridging the gap between Hopkins' capabilities and entrepreneurial support programs, we help create stronger pathways to business growth and community impact.

As facilitators of entrepreneurial growth, GCE helps to:

  • Create opportunities for our communities
  • Build lasting connections between entrepreneurs and resources
  • Support social enterprises that address community needs

Key Business Programs & Initiatives

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB)

The 10,000 Small Businesses program represents a transformative approach to small business development. Since 2017, this Baltimore initiative has created a meaningful impact through collaboration between Johns Hopkins, Morgan State, CCBC, and our funding partners, Goldman Sachs and Bloomberg Philanthropies.


Education & Skills Development

With a comprehensive learning approach developed by leading entrepreneurship experts, participants gain practical business knowledge and skills through:

  • World-class curriculum designed by Babson College
  • Intensive multi-week business education program
  • One-on-one business advising

Networking & Support

Participants join a powerful nationwide community of business owners that provides lasting connections and growth opportunities through:

  • Connection to 14,000+ program graduates nationwide
  • Peer learning opportunities and collaborative discussions
  • Ongoing support network after graduation

Measurable Results

The program's impact on business growth and job creation demonstrates clear success with metrics showing:

  • 72% of alumni increase revenue within 30 months
  • 53% create new jobs within 30 months
  • Zero cost to participants, maximizing accessibility

Through this proven model of education, support, and accountability, 10KSB transforms ambitious small business owners into confident leaders ready to take their companies to the next level.

Ward Infinity


Ward Infinity demonstrates how social entrepreneurship can address critical community needs. This five-month accelerator program empowers teams in DC's communities to improve health, wellness, and sustainability outcomes through innovation.

Comprehensive Support

Ward Infinity invests in community innovators through a multilayered support system that provides:

  • Funding for community-driven initiatives
  • Expert mentorship and coaching
  • Personalized workshops and networking opportunities

Focus Areas

Teams develop solutions across key areas that directly impact community health and wellness:

  • Food access and nutrition
  • Environmental health
  • Community relationships
  • Healthcare systems access and technology

Through this collaborative approach to social innovation, Ward Infinity empowers local leaders to create sustainable solutions that improve health outcomes and strengthen their communities.

Our Vision for Business Development


Supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses is crucial to our communities' economic future. Through programs like 10KSB and Ward Infinity, we see firsthand how providing resources and support to business owners creates meaningful change.

We advance this vision by:

Supporting Proven Programs

We partner with established initiatives that understand how to nurture business growth and create sustainable impact in our communities.

Creating Access to Resources

Our partnerships help connect entrepreneurs with the education, capital, and support services they need to grow their businesses and create opportunities.

Measuring Business Impact

We track program outcomes to understand their benefit to participants and communities, ensuring resources are used effectively to drive growth.

As these programs continue to evolve and expand, Johns Hopkins' expertise and resources will remain a vital source of support, helping to build stronger businesses and healthier communities throughout Baltimore and DC.

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Baltimore, MD 21218
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