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