Entrepreneur Boot Camp

Registration for Fall 2026 Entrepreneur Boot Camp is now open. Classes will begin early September.

Start or grow your business with expert guidance.

The Capital Region Chamber’s Entrepreneur Boot Camp is an award-winning, 60-hour small business training program in Albany, NY designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners successfully launch, operate, and grow a successful business.

Sessions are held two evenings per week over 12 weeks, making the program accessible for working professionals.

If you’re looking for entrepreneur support or technical assistance to move your business forward, or more information on Entrepreneur Boot Camp, please complete the inquiry form to connect with Laura Mann, Vice President, Business Resources.

 

Presenting Sponsor

Funded in part by Empire State Development

 

What You’ll Learn

This hands-on entrepreneur training program walks participants through every stage of business development, including:

  • Business planning and strategy
  • Accounting and financial management
  • Legal considerations and business structure
  • Market research and competitive analysis
  • Marketing and social media strategy
  • Cash flow and payroll management
  • Insurance, taxes, and real estate
  • And additional topics to avoid common start-up pitfalls

You’ll gain practical tools and real-world insights from local business experts across the Capital Region. 

Build Your Business Plan

Throughout the program, participants develop a full business plan. At the conclusion of the course, you’ll present your plan to a panel of judges in a business plan competition. 

Program Incentives & Awards

Top participants receive valuable resources to help launch or grow their business, including:

  • $3,000 cash grant (Sunmark Credit Union)
  • $1,500 cash grant (Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP)
  • One-year Capital Region Chamber membership
  • Office equipment from Repeat Business Systems
  • 3-credit course from SUNY Schenectady County Community College
  • Two-month membership to the Tech Valley Center of Gravity

Earn College Credit

Through a partnership with SUNY Schenectady County Community College, eligible students can earn college credit for completing the program. Entrepreneur Boot Camp is offered as Business Plan Development (BUS 252) within the Business Administration A.A.S. and Entrepreneurship Certificate programs.

Who Should Enroll?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs ready to launch a business
  • Early-stage business owners looking to grow
  • Professionals exploring self-employment
  • Anyone seeking a structured small business startup program in Albany/Capital Region