Launching in the summer of 2025, ICIC’s Manufacturing Accelerator Program (MAP) is a new, tuition-free executive education program that provides small manufacturing businesses with the education, tools, and actionable strategies they need to grow and thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.
MAP’s inaugural cohort will begin on August 6, 2025. Spots are limited, and applications will be accepted until all seats are filled.
Why Enroll in MAP
Developed and taught by industry experts and practitioners, MAP is a program built by manufacturers, for manufacturers. It equips participants with the tools they need to compete, innovate, and scale effectively through expert-led classes and peer-to-peer networking.
MAP will help you:
- Develop and implement a profitable, growth-oriented business strategy
- Enhance operational efficiency and technology integration
- Strengthen leadership and organizational capabilities
- Secure capital for expansion
About the Manufacturing Accelerator Program (MAP)
- Overview: A new, national executive education program specifically designed to help small manufacturing businesses build profitable business strategies, maximize operational efficiency, and access capital. The program is designed by ICIC, a national nonprofit that supports small business growth across the country. The MAP program is offered at no cost to participants.
- Structure: Through virtual classroom training, dedicated technical assistance, and peer-to-peer industry networking, MAP positions manufacturers for sustainable growth and increased profits.
- Curriculum: MAP’s 5 curriculum modules comprehensively cover all the key elements needed to be a successful manufacturing company. All classes are taught by manufacturing experts and practitioners. Read the full curriculum here.
- Schedule & time commitment: The inaugural cohort begins on August 6 and runs for 12 consecutive weeks, with weekly 2-hour virtual classes. The time commitment is about 3-4 hours per week (2 hours in class, and 1-2 hours of asynchronous work).
Program Criteria
To be eligible for the MAP program, your company must:
- Be an independent, for-profit manufacturing company
- Have between 20 – 100 full-time employees (Companies with less than 20 full-time employees will also be considered based on business growth trajectory and readiness to benefit from the program)
- Represent or be located in an underserved community*
*Not sure if you meet this criteria? Apply to find out or email us at MAP@icic.org.
Once you submit the application, you may be directed to a Calendly page where you can select a time for an interview with a MAP representative. If you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at MAP@icic.org.
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