HARRISBURG, PA — March 11, 2025 — M&T Bank (NYSE:MTB) is seeking up to 40 entrepreneurs to participate in its fourth Small Business Accelerator Program – a program designed to provide small business owners with the guidance and skills needed to build strong businesses, spur economic growth in Harrisburg’s Capital Region, and build generational wealth for their families.
Registration is now open for the free, seven-week program which is held in partnership with the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (CIE). The program’s sessions will focus on business planning, establishing credit, accessing capital, marketing, branding, and networking.
The M&T Bank Small Business Accelerator Program launches May 7, 2025, with courses held each Wednesday evening at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. It will conclude on June 18 with a pitch competition and opportunity to win grants totaling $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place and $2,000 for third place – all funded by M&T.
Entrepreneurs interested in participating in the program must complete an online application no later than April 12, 2025, and meet the following eligibility requirements:
- In business three years or less;
- Annual business revenue of $350,000 or less;
- Principal owner must be 18 years or older; and,
- Small business owners must reside in Harrisburg’s Capital Region.
Qualified applicants will be enrolled in the free program on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Now in its fourth year, the M&T Bank Small Business Accelerator Program has proven to be a catalyst for entrepreneurs looking to make a positive impact on our community,” said Nora Habig, M&T Bank’s Regional President for Central and Western Pennsylvania. “By providing practical knowledge, mentorship and key resources, this program helps small business owners strengthen their businesses and drive economic growth in the Capital Region. We’re proud to continue our partnership with the CIE to support the next generation of business leaders.”
Jay Jayamohan, CIE’s Executive Director, said, "At CIE and M&T Bank, we believe every great business starts with a bold idea. Through our Small Business Accelerator Program, we empower entrepreneurs to turn their visions into reality and their passions into success. With the right support and resources, innovation knows no limits."
The Capital Region Small Business Accelerator Program launched in 2022, providing 40 small-business owners with free access to resources and education to grow their business. The 2022 program received the Catalyst Award from the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and Capital Region Economic Development Corporation for its impact on businesses in the area.
“We have seen time and again over the last few years how the Small Business Accelerator Program is fostering the next generation of Harrisburg’s entrepreneurs,” Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams said. “M&T Bank and Harrisburg University are creating a business environment that will have positive impacts for generations.”
“Entrepreneurship is the backbone of our community, and programs like the Small Business Accelerator are essential in providing the resources and mentorship needed to turn ideas into thriving businesses,” said MaDonna Awotwi, CIE Program Manager. “At the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, we are committed to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs in their journey to success.”
To apply for the Capital Region Small Business Accelerator Program, visit mtb.com/harrisburgprogram.
About M&T Bank
M&T Bank Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T's principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services with a branch and ATM network spanning the eastern U.S. from Maine to Virginia and Washington, D.C. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the U.S. and abroad by M&T's Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. For more information about M&T Bank, visit www.mtb.com.
About the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) at Harrisburg University
The Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) empowers innovators to build successful ventures, including Harrisburg University students and faculty, as well as entrepreneurs in the community. In addition, CIE offers opportunities for partners to invest in important scientific discoveries, technological innovations, and academic research.
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