THATCHER, Ariz. — The DreamBuilder hybrid learning experience, developed by the Eastern Arizona College Small Business Development Center (EAC SBDC), has been selected as a statewide model to enhance business skills for women and underserved entrepreneurs. This initiative extends the online DreamBuilder modules with supplemental in-person learning opportunities, now available across ten additional SBDCs in Arizona.
Statistics show that the completion rate for similar free online business training programs typically ranges between five to seven percent. However, the DreamBuilder program notably achieved a 27% completion rate in 2023 for individuals outside established networks, with the EAC SBDC’s implementation achieving a 77% completion rate.
“EAC’s SBDC hybrid learning model demonstrates a proven track record of success,” said Todd Haynie, EAC president. “Such innovative programs underscore our commitment to fostering economic development and educational excellence, with an annual impact nearing $250 million.”
Torey Cranford, a certified business analyst at the EAC SBDC, has been pivotal in successfully increasing the capacity of this model in Graham and Greenlee counties. “It’s immensely rewarding to see our participants succeed and grow their enterprises. As this program expands, I look forward to assisting more entrepreneurs throughout the state, helping to unlock their potential and ensure their success,” she commented.
The DreamBuilder program was developed by Freeport McMoRan and managed by the Thunderbird School of Global Management at ASU. The Arizona Commerce Authority was awarded a $7.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of the Treasury to support the program throughout ten additional counties. This grant is a part of a larger federal initiative aimed at bolstering small and underserved businesses. The grant will also support other initiatives such as Moonshot, a rural-focused pitch competition, and the Arizona Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which expects to provide advisory services to 900 rural and underserved manufacturers.
“This funding allows us to build on proven successes like EAC’s DreamBuilder experience and extend these opportunities further across Arizona, especially in our rural and mining communities,” said Robert Theobald of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “We’re excited to support more entrepreneurs statewide, fostering economic growth and innovation.”
For no-cost business counseling from EAC’s SBDC, or to learn more about DreamBuilder, contact Torey Cranford at sbdc@eac.edu or (928) 428-8590.
