Airport (DEN), and the Mayor’s Office of the National Western Center. “Each pairing is defined by individual leadership skills and needs, and every partnership has its own personality, but over time there are universal outcomes that we can measure, “ said Adrina Gibson, DEDO Chief Officer for Small Business Opportunity. “Our graduation events always include some powerful stories of personal connection as well as professional development.” The program team, comprised of Program Administrator Helga Grunerud, Program Manager Kayla Hardin-Lawson, and Director of Strategic Business
Development Will Chan are eager to launch this next cohort. Chan states, “This program provides a structured pathway for knowledge transfer, skills, and insights between both mentors and proteges. Ultimately driving growth and excellence for our local economy.” To date, 11 pairings have participated in the program in its citywide form, launched in 2021. Proteges are required to be an MWBE certified business with Denver with at least two consecutive years of experience in commercial or government contracting. To each pairing, the
Mentor contributes technical know-how as well as coaching on both hard and soft skills, the city agency liaison can help solve questions that may arise and help navigate, and DSBO checks in quarterly to ensure that maximum benefits are being realized all around. DSBO hosts networking and recognition events as well. The application guideline, detail about the Mentor and Protégé roles, and details for the information session on Thursday, April 4, 2024 will be available here. The next deadline for applying for consideration is Friday, April 19, 2024.
33 The Acumen
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