CEO Next is a longstanding initiative from Hennepin County, is designed to support second-stage businesses in their ongoing growth and innovation.

CEO, Founder, President.

However, you define your role, you are leading a successful company poised for growth. CEO Next is designed to address the specific needs of established high growth businesses scaling into new markets or expanding in other ways. Businesses located in or operating in in Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, and Scott counties, can learn with their peers through world-class research, industry experts, and each other. Since 2012, this program has empowered more than 290 business leaders with skills and technical advising to move their businesses forward. These businesses have created or retained more than 8,000 jobs.

CEO Next training is delivered in three ways:

1. System for Integrated Growth: 30 hours of intensive, advanced research for each business

2. CEO round table sessions: eight half-day sessions for participating CEO peers to learn from each other

3. CEO forum events: eight sessions for participating CEOs and other second-stage companies to learn from industry experts and business leaders Qualifying business can access this opportunity at no cost thanks to scholarships from the regional county partnership.

To qualify, businesses must:

• Be privately held

• Employ 10 to 99 people

• Report revenue between $1 million and $50 million

• Appetite and aptitude for growth

• Wiliness to share with and learn from peer business leaders Apply now CEO Next is currently accepting applications.

Priority consideration will be given to applications for businesses in those counties received before September 15, 2024. After completing the application, program staff will follow up with next steps.