Get Procured is designed to empower small businesses to understand and navigate the procurement process effectively. The program is anchored by a five-day virtual and in-person immersive training that brings together procurement officials from federal, state, and local entities, as well as corporate partners, across Georgia and Mississippi. Participants will gain firsthand insights into contracting processes and procedures and have opportunities to network directly with decision-makers to learn how to access procurement opportunities, obtain and leverage certifications, and develop partnerships to secure contracts.

We are now accepting applications for the 2026 Get Procured Cohorts in Georgia and Mississippi.

For Georgia, we are seeking businesses located in the Metropolitan Atlanta area and surrounding suburbs, as well as the cities of Macon, Augusta, Valdosta, Savannah, and Columbus.

For Mississippi, applications are open to businesses across the entire state.

Get Procured is a 6-month program representing a $10,000 value focused on local, state, and federal procurement. If accepted, a membership fee of $125 will be required. You will be supported by a dedicated program manager who is fully committed to your growth, along with our entire OVU team.

ELEVATE Mississippi is designed for Mississippi entrepreneurs in the growth stage who are working to expand their business and have an annual revenue under $100,000. This program provides support through mentorship, training, and resources to help business owners overcome growth challenges and scale sustainably. ELEVATE Mississippi aims to empower local entrepreneurs to elevate their businesses and contribute to the state’s economic landscape.

We are currently accepting applications for our Summer 2026 cohort. Please apply by July 10 to be considered for the Summer cohort.  Decisions will be made in July. 

ELEVATE Mississippi represents a $10,000 value. Your membership fee is $125. We keep it accessible, but we require it because when you invest in yourself, you show up differently. You will be supported by a dedicated program manager who is fully committed to your growth, along with our entire OVU team.

APPLICATION TIPS

We recommend spending time crafting a strong narrative around your business journey and current needs. Our application is designed to capture each entrepreneur’s full story, because we aim to invest in the whole person, not just the business. Providing clear, thoughtful, and thorough responses will significantly strengthen your application.

1. Be sure to take your time to research the program to understand why it will beneficial to your business athttps://ourvillageunited.org/programs/

2.Use an email address you check regularly and intend to use throughout the program if accepted

3. Be sure to thoroughly answer ALL open-ended questions. 

4. Be sure you have a strong understanding of your short & long term business goals. Please write them as SMART goals. 

5. Be sure to recognize and understand your business challenges and how you got there. 

6. Know your numbers - be accurate when providing your business revenue details.

Thank you for your interest in Elevated Cities!

Please read this message carefully before completing your application, as only one application per business owner will be accepted. If you own multiple businesses, please choose one business to submit for consideration.

• Applications are currently open for our 2027 cohort.

Please note, you will not be excluded based on location; however, two in-person opportunities will be offered in Chicago.  We encourage all to apply, regardless of geography.

ELEVATED Cities is a 12-week intensive representing a $10,000 value with a national reach. If selected, your membership fee is $125. You will be supported by a dedicated program manager who is fully committed to your growth, along with our entire OVU team.

We look forward to receiving and reviewing your application!

Amplify: Main Street Forward, formerly known as HER Pro Bono, is designed for experienced businesses with brick-and-mortar locations or businesses seeking opportunities for boutique placement. This program offers one-on-one technical assistance in areas such as operations, marketing, branding, finance, and sales to help entrepreneurs strengthen infrastructure and prepare for capital access. Amplify: Main Street Forward empowers founders to tackle growth challenges and scale confidently and sustainably.   

Amplify: Main Streets is an 8-month program representing a $12,000 value. You will work with two dedicated service providers at no additional cost who will help you tackle your most pressing challenges. Your membership fee is $125. You will also be supported by a dedicated program manager who is fully committed to your growth, along with our entire OVU team.

Applications are currently being accepted for our 2027 cohort.