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What to Expect

As a participant in this program, it is expected that both mentors and proteges will meet monthly (at minimum) to discuss the areas of interest for the protege’s mentorship needs.
In addition to monthly meetings with mentors, there will be structured curriculum (modules) divided into two tracks that are focused on construction-related firms and a non-construction related firms. These modules are mandatory monthly sessions, facilitated by various UF departments and our community partners.
Each module is comprised of 2-4 workshops discussing detailed information for protégé’s to learn how to successfully navigate the institution and offer key information to further develop and grow their business. Below is a tentative schedule of the 2023 UF Mentor Protégé Program.
Applications Available
September 27, 2022
Application
Closes
November 15, 2022
Mentor & Protégé selections
December 2022
2023 Schedule
January | Kickoff Reception |
February | Module One: Introduction to the University of Florida |
March | 2023 Gainesville Supplier Diversity Exchange (March 21st) |
April | Module 2: Leadership with a Purpose |
May | Annual Small Business Opportunity Fair (May 3rd) |
May | Module 3: Separating from the Competition* |
June | Module 4: Marketing Your Firm & Connecting to the Gator Nation |
July | Module 5: Positioning Your Firm for Success |
August | Financial Success |
September | Module 7: Strategic Planning |
October | Module 8: Strategic Negotiation |
November | Module 9: Creating a Loyal Customer |
December | Graduation |
Topics are subject to change at SBSD discretion
*Two separate sessions. One session is for construction-related firms; other session is for non-construction firms
Are you interested in participating in the Mentor Protégé Program and have additional questions? Contact us today sbsd@admin.ufl.edu or call (352)392-0380