ASU| SRP Small Business Academy

Description

SRP Small Business Academy, a six-week program designed for Arizona-based businesses that are ready to grow through large supplier and procurement contracts.

We are especially encouraging contractors, suppliers, and association members to attend and share this opportunity with their broader network, as this Academy is built for businesses that want a realistic understanding of what it takes to pursue — and successfully deliver — large contracts.

Kickoff Session — January 22

The kickoff session sets the foundation for the entire Academy and focuses on a critical, often overlooked reality of large contracts:

Winning work is only half the equation — delivering it sustainably is the real challenge.

Participants will explore:

• Cash flow management when payment timelines don’t align with delivery timelines
• Financial planning for large, milestone-based contracts
• Operational and staffing implications of scaling for procurement work
• What large buyers expect after the contract is awarded

This session is designed to help businesses decide whether large-scale procurement is the right growth path for them — and how to prepare responsibly if it is.

When and Where: 

Join us for in-person workshops from January 22, 2026, to Feb 26, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Pera Club (1 E Continental Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281) and ASU's 1951@SkySong (1475 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85257).

About the SRP Small Business Academy

• 6-week cohort-based program   
  • Session 1 (Thursday, Jan 22, Pera Club): Supplier Innovation Kickoff & Finance Foundations.
  • Session 2 (Tuesday, Jan 27, Skysong): Certifications & Insurance Readiness.
  • Session 3 (Thursday, Feb 5, Skysong): Capabilities Statements & Cybersecurity.
  • Session 4 (Thursday, Feb 12, Skysong): Operational Readiness & Quality Control.
  • Session 5 (Thursday, Feb 19, Skysong): Pitch Coaching and Relationship Building.
  • Session 6 (Thursday, Feb 26, Pera Club): Final Pitch Event & Supplier Celebration.

• Practical, real-world guidance on procurement readiness
• Designed for businesses with operations in Arizona
• Culminates in a $20,000 pitch showcase, sponsored by SRP
• All eligible businesses in Arizona who attend may apply for the $20,000 opportunity

Whether a business is just beginning to explore procurement or actively pursuing large contracts, the Academy provides the tools and clarity needed to scale intentionally.

We would be grateful if you would:

• Attend the kickoff session if relevant to your organization, and/or
• Share this invitation with your members, partners, or network who may benefit

Registration is Now Open: Click here to Register