Wednesday, August 07, 2013
Posted by
Annie Zaleski
Joanna Sobran is the owner and president of MXOtech, a Chicago-based IT consulting firm that focuses on developing custom applications and portals for companies. Last June, she participated in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, a free mini-MBA program available to firms looking to grow their companies. Sobran participated because of her desire to "gain insight from experts to help me grow my business," she told a Cleveland audience last fall.
"I didn’t have a formal education. I came here from another country when I was 11 years old, and I didn't have the same financial opportunities. My parents had to work, and so did I, so I really needed something to round out my dreams and my passion for being an entrepreneur."
In the end, the program helped her in three main ways. Read on to find out more details. You can also get more information on how to apply to Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses right here in Cleveland.
Sobran was able to expand her business.
"Goldman Sachs 10,000 Businesses allowed me to gain the needed business education to realize my vision and my passion for the future of my business. Since graduating, we grew our revenues, we expanded our business and our clients, we hired new employees and we doubled the space in our office. It's just a beautiful second home for me now and for our employees."
She developed a robust network of helpful contacts.
"Because of the program, I now have a strong network of fellow small business owners. We do business with one another and refer to each other for projects. We’re so excited to help one another; I've made a lot of friends, colleagues, vendors and clients to work with because of that program."
Sobran was able to accelerate her career growth and development.
"I changed my role. As the CEO, I now focus on vision, sales, marketing and recruiting. A key thing I took away from the program is hiring a team that will help me propel my business."
As a result of the 10,000 Small Businesses, Sobran was able to concentrate on her business and begin thinking bigger. "I loved spending that time dedicated to what I love to do and helping to grow my business," Sobran said, calling the program a "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity for anyone who loves being an entrepreneur and wants to grow their business.
Annie Zaleski is part of the marketing/communications team at JumpStart. A graduate of Harvard University, she has over a decade of professional writing and editing experience. She is especially passionate about blogging, social media, content management, branding and rock & roll.