How to Apply
The CU Grow program accepts 20 firms per cohort (Track 1 and Track 2) that provide services within the built environment, including construction trades, professional services, suppliers, and construction commodities, with a minimum revenue of $250K. Each firm is paired with an expert executive coach to address challenges and identify strategies to continue growing their businesses throughout the 11-month program. All expert coaches have a stipend to support diverse business build capacity.
Our application pool is now closed for Cohort 9 - 2025.
Click Here to complete an interest form for Cohort 10 - 2026!
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Vendor Participant Information
This program is for you if you:
- Are seeking a greater understanding of large company procurement procedures
- Provide a service or commodity that aligns with the needs of Columbia University. See the list of eligible firms.
- Are a locally-owned or a designated SEDI-owned firm with annual revenue between $250K and $10M*
- Have a business established for at least three years and is in the built environment, including construction trades, professional services, suppliers, and commodities.
- Are able to commit to 8-10 hours a week in developing a SMART three-year strategic growth plan.
For more information, review:
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Executive Coach Information
This opportunity is for you if you:
- Have experience with business management, finance, marketing, and knowledge of the building trade industry
- Have experience working with SEDI, and locally-owned businesses
- Know the procurement process with large private and public stakeholders
- Can commit to 2-5 hours a week (depending on the firm's needs) to support the firm you are paired with in developing a SMART three-year strategic growth plan.