Third cohort of Launch Savannah program now accepting applications

by Shakuria Smith

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Applications are now open for the third cohort of the Launch Savannah Minority Business Accelerator program.

The announcement was made during the Mayor’s Small Business Conference as part of 2026 Savannah Small Business Week.

Originally recommended by the City of Savannah’s Racial Equity and Leadership Task Force, the program has grown into a 12-week, in-person accelerator designed to help minority-owned and women-owned businesses strengthen and expand their operations.

The 2026 session will run from June 30 through Sept. 22, with classes held Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Program leaders say participants will receive training in areas including financial management, marketing and branding, government contracting readiness and pitch development.

The accelerator is limited to 15 participants and is open to entrepreneurs who have been in business for at least one year.

Upon completing the program, participants will receive scholarship support packages for services such as accounting, legal assistance and marketing resources to help further grow their businesses.

Applications are available through the City of Savannah website here.

All applications must be submitted by May 26 at 11:59 p.m.