Black Economics Enterprise Program

 

 

 

 

 

(B.E.E.P.)

General Cohort Syllabus       

Presented by: Charleston Area Black Caucus

 

• PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS FOR CAPITAL
• UNDERSTANDING NEW BUSINESS CULTURE
• ORGANIZING YOUR BUSINESS, THE RIGHT WAY

 

ABOUT B.E.E.P.

The Black Economics Enterprise Program (B.E.E.P.) is an Incubator of the Charleston Area Black Caucus- which is subsidiary of the Southeastern Chamber. The program is designed to aid Black businesses and entrepreneurs in preparing for growth. The B.E.E.P. helps these businesses identify and overcome barriers which often include limited access to capital, key decision makers, and information. By providing practical tools for change, program participants are positioned to increase capacity, create jobs, and build leadership skills and wealth.

 

B.E.E.P. MISSION

To help black businesses and entrepreneurs shift themselves to prepare for capital, leverage greater business opportunities and increase sustainability in the marketplace.

 

TUITION/FEES:

Cohort Tuition: $1500.00

Cohort Application Fee: $75.00

Cohort Total: $1575.00

NOTE: Payment plans are available to those that qualify. Class meals and additional amenities included in tuition. All tuition and fees are non-refundable.

 

General Cohort Sc

ith a wrap-up session and graduation in August. There may be a few additional community involvement sessions and/or make-up days that can be set up at your leisure during the program.

Orientation:
It is important that you attend orientation virtually. If you are unable to attend, your participation in the program is not guaranteed.

Cohort Director:  | 843.263.3000 | contact@southeasternchamber.org 

 

Curriculum Titles/Class Schedule:

 

MODULE (1): Orientation - Tuesday, June 16, 2025

 

Orientation: Introduction to the Program| Mentorship Coach Introductions and Pairing

Orientation Outline:

Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

🕐 1:00 PM – 1:10 PM | Welcome & Opening Remarks 

🕐 1:10 PM – 1:25 PM | Introduction to B.E.E.P. & Program Overview

🕝 1:25 PM – 1:35 PM | The Chamber's Impact & Opportunities

• Presenter: Henry Ravenel 
• Presentation Title: "The Chamber Advantage: Your Hub for Business Growth"

Topics Covered:

1.About the Chamber

• Mission, vision, and key focus areas
• Membership benefits, including exclusive access to Chamber events and resources

2.Opportunities for Cohort Members

• Connecting with influential leaders and mentors
• Gaining exposure through the Chamber's business network
• Leveraging B.E.E.P.'s alumni community for ongoing support

🕝 1:35 PM – 1:45 PM | Bank of America’s Impact & Opportunities

🕝 1:45 PM – 2:05 PM | Virtual Icebreaker & Participant Introductions

🕑 2:05 PM – 2:20 PM | Program Expectations & Success Guidelines

Topics Covered:

1.Attendance & Participation Requirements

• Session etiquette and expectations
• Importance of active participation and engagement

2.Coach & Mentee Relationships

• Overview of Coach pairing process
• Tips for maximizing coaching outcomes

3.Assessment & Graduation Criteria

• Key milestones and deliverables
• Pitch competition and graduation 

requirements

🕑 2:20 PM – 2:40 PM | Walkthrough of the B.E.E.P. Curriculum & Timeline

• Presenter: Nick Correa 
• Presentation Title: "Navigating the B.E.E.P. Curriculum: Your Roadmap to Success"

Topics Covered:

1.Module Breakdown

• Overview of the 8-Module Curriculum
• Key topics such as financial literacy, procurement, business credit (6 C's) , and pitch preparation

2.Guest Speakers & Special Sessions

• Highlights of special events Chamber Calendar events and the Legislative Conference in Washington, DC

3.Pitch Competition & Graduation

• Timeline and expectations for the pitch competition
• Graduation ceremony and final deliverables

🕝 2:40 PM – 2:50 PM | Q&A and Open Discussion

Purpose:

• Address participant questions and concerns
• Provide clarity on program logistics, content, and expectations

🕝 2:50 PM – 3:00 PM | Closing Remarks & Next Steps

• Host: Alysha Powell 

Next Steps:

• Cohort Communication: Instructions on joining the cohort's Slack channel, email group, or group text thread
• Pre-Work: Assignments or recommended resources to prepare for Module 2
• Save the Date: Reminder of THURSDAY April 10th for ProcureCon Date - Module 3 Official Statehouse Day April 23, 2025 in Columbia.

 

Location: Virtual (See zoom link on Chamber website/event calendar)

**********************************************************************

 

 

 

MODULE (2) Wednesday, June 18, 2025

 

 Morning Session: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

 Session 1: Positioning Myself to Scale

"Level Up: Building Your Circle, Brand & Blueprint" 

• Learning the New Art of Networking → "Network Like a Natural: Building Real Connections That Move You Forward"
• Business Etiquette in a New Generation → "CEO Energy: Modern Etiquette for Movers & Shakers"
• Mentorship Coach Introductions and Pairing → "Meet Your Plug: Tapping Into Wisdom & Winning Relationships with B.E.E.P.

Session 2: Personal Finance Essentials

"Money Moves: Mastering Your Bag Before It Masters You" 

• How to Budget & Develop Your Budget → "Budget Like a Boss: Tell Your Money Where to Go"
• Emergency Fund Security & Jump-starting Your Emergency Fund → "Break Glass in Case of Broke: Emergency Fund 101"
• Managing Debt and Prioritizing Savings → "Debt Detox: Clean Up Your Credit, Stack Your Savings"

Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Session 3: Income & Paychecks

"Secure the Bag: Making Your Money Work for You"

• Why Paying Yourself is Vital to a Healthy Business → "Pay Yourself First: Boss Moves Only"
• Understanding Your Paycheck → "Decode the Direct Deposit: What That Pay Stub's Really Saying"
• Maximizing Your Paycheck Benefits and Resources → "Benefits, Bags & Balances: Getting the Most Out of Your Check"

Session 4: Building Healthy Credit

"Swipe Smart: Building Credit Like a Boss"

• Why Building a Good Personal Credit Score is Vital to the Business → "Your Credit Is Your Clout: Why It Matters to Your Brand"
• Reading a Credit Report → "Credit Receipts: How to Read Your Financial Report Card"
• Using a Credit Card Responsibly → "Swipe with Strategy: Don't Let the Plastic Play You"

Session 5: Overview & Next Session Prep

"Stay Ready So You Don't Have to Get Ready"

(Prep. Plan. Pitch. Repeat.) 

• What's ahead for the June Session → "Sneak Peek: What's Poppin' in June"
• Coaches/Mentor Survey → "Rate the Real Ones: Mentor Check-In & Feedback"
• Preparing for Pitch Practice → "Pitch Perfect(ish): Sharpen Your Story, Own the Room"

 

Location: ECPI University, North Charleston, SC

**************************************************************************************

 

 MODULE (3) Thursday, July 17, 2025

 

Morning Session 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM Business Banking & Cash Flow

 Session 1: "Run the Bank”

• Business Banking Fundamentals → "Money HQ: Set Up Your Business Like It's Meant to Scale"
• Separating Business & Personal Finances → "Keep It Clean: Don't Mix Personal With the Profit"

Session 2: “Boss Moves with Your Money Flow"

• Types of Business Accounts → "Know the Code: Pick the Right Account for the Right Moves"
• Cash Flow Management → "Flow Check: Make Sure the Money Moves Make Sense"
• Identifying Bottlenecks & Strategy → "Fix the Leak: Where's the Bag Slippin' & How to Plug It"

 

 Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM- 5:00 PM Secrets to Business Credit Building

Session 3: "Biz Credit is Currency”: Build It, Flex It, Fund It"

• FDIC, NCUA & Loan Overview → "Know the Players: Where the Funding Really Lives"
• Best Loan Options by Business Type → "Pick Your Play: The Right Loan for the Right Grind"
• Loan Qualifications & Applications → "Qualify Like a Pro: Don't Just Apply—Apply With Power"

 Session 4: “Pitch Well Practice Perfectly/Prep for Next Module”

• Pitch Practice → "Mic Check: Sharpen Your Pitch, Sell the Vision"
• Fielding Investor Questions → "Hot Seat Rehearsal: Own the Room, Answer Like a CEO"
• Prep it up for the next Round → “What’s good in July”

 

 Location: ECPI University, North Charleston, SC

**************************************************************************************

 

MODULE (4) Tuesday, August 12, 2025

 

Morning Session 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM: Credit Stack & Capital Hacks"

Session 1: Building Business Credit

• "Your Biz Got Credit? Time to Build the Street Cred It Deserves"
• Developing a Credit Profile → "Make Your Business Look Like a Million Bucks (on Paper)"
• Credit Utilization Strategy → "Swipe Smart: Use It, Don't Abuse It"

Session 2: Show Me The Money

• Access to Capital → "Bag Secured: Grants, Investors & Capital That Gets You to the Next Level"
• Matching Capital with Needs → "What You Need vs. What You Want: Funding with Intention"

Session 3: B.E.E.P. Self-Check

"BEEP Self Check: Pause, Reflect, Recalibrate"

(Because Growth Ain't Rushed — It's Mastered) 

• "Checkpoint Vibes →Are You Getting What You Came For?"
• "Catch Your Breath, Check Your Progress"
• “One-On-One Sync-Up → Are You Absorbing or Just Attending?"

 Location: ECPI University, North Charleston, SC

**************************************************************************************

 

MODULE (5) Thursday, August 21, 2025

 

Morning Session 9:00 AM- 11:00 AM:  Individual Coach Meetings

Evening Session: 6:00 PM- 9:45 PM: Emerging Leaders Awards Gala |Chamber 20^th Anniversary Celebration Gala

As a signature event to kick-off Fall, join us as we commemorate 20 years of impact, innovation, and excellence at the Southeastern Chamber’s 20th Anniversary Gala & Emerging Leaders Night!

Thursday, August 21, 2025, we will celebrate two decades of fostering business growth, community leadership, and industry innovation. This milestone event will recognize outstanding Chamber members and company leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to economic and professional development as emerging leaders in our region.

Expect an elegant evening of celebration, networking, and recognition, bringing together the brightest minds in business, government, and entrepreneurship. Whether you are a longtime member, a new innovator, or a future emerging leader, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Save the Date and be part of history as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and build the future of the Southeastern Chamber.

@Emerging Leaders Program- Each year the Chamber recognizes various industries within the Region that are fostering positive regional impact to the economy.

For the year 2025, the SCC has designed a special edition of the Gala highlighting the unique 20th Anniversary of the Chamber.   

With a nominating committee of over a dozen leadership professionals representing a diverse group of organizations and backgrounds; this Emerging Leaders Celebration has been planned with great detail and eminence. It is a formal night geared towards celebrating these vital, through often behind-the-scenes industries and its leaders.

Winners and finalist will be honored in a feature publication produced by the Chamber and will be celebrated at the official Awards Gala August 21, 2025.

Award Recipient Industries to be recognized are:

• Automotive Sales & Service
• Industry Manufacturing Companies
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Banking & Finance
• Entertainment & Nightlife
• Economic Development & Real Estate
• Healthcare Services

*************************************************

EVENING PROGRAM:

**Registration & Networking /Doors Open at 6:00pm

6:00-6:30p.m. | Cocktail Reception

7:00-8:00p.m. | Dinner

8:00pm-9:45p.m. |Emmy’s Program, Coffee and Music Lounge

ATTIRE: Black Tie

HASHTAG: #ELGala2025

We are excited to recognize these businesses at the 20th Anniversary of the Chamber and the 10th Anniversary of Emerging Leaders. 

 Location: TBA

**************************************************************************************

 

MODULE (6) Thursday September 18, 2025

 

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Special Details TBA.

 

 Location: ECPI University, North Charleston, SC

**************************************************************************************

 

MODULE (7) Wednesday-Sunday, September 24-28, 2025

 

(See detailed conference information below.

Trip fees and tickets not included in tuition)

 54^th Annual Legislative Conference – Congressional Black Caucus Convention - Up Front with the Law Makers |Understanding Government Money at the Federal Level |Small Business Aid and Government Funds

Billions of federal grant dollars are awarded to worthy causes each year, but the federal grants arena is not kind to beginners nor for the faint of heart. The stakes with federal funding are often much higher than with private funders and the guidelines are more complex and less forgiving. That makes federal funding a real challenge but one that can also be very rewarding when it's a good 'fit.' Tip the odds in your favor during our trip to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC to meet the legislators and wealthy blacks that not only vote and follow where government funding is disbursed, but also support small business aid, and lots of other government opportunities.

During this session, you will:

• Participate in thought-provoking discussions and workshops led by industry experts and policymakers on key issues such that effect your community and ability to thrive as a business leader
• Connect with influential leaders, activist, and professionals who are shaping the future of policy and advocacy for black communities
• Connect with a diverse array of vendors showcasing products, services and initiatives designed to uplift the black community
• Enjoy inspiring events, award ceremonies, and entertainment that celebrate the richness and diversity of black culture
• Network with national politicians and lawmakers that represent black America, along with understanding how their work affects your business
• Hear about federal funding opportunities that match your organization’s mission and priorities
• Examine recent application guidelines and funded proposals to see what works, what doesn’t, and why
• Develop a work-plan for proposal development and write key proposal sections
• Hear from local and state legislators on their initiatives to assist small businesses and entrepreneurs through bills and proposed legislation that you should follow closely 
• Learn to get a head start on competitions before the funding guidelines are released

>>>>>>> CLICK HERE FOR DETAILED CONFERENCE INFORMATION <<<<<<<

Location: Offsite- Washington, DC 

***********************************************************************************

 

 MODULE (8) Thursday, October 9, 2025

 

Branding, Capital & Scale

Focus of the Day: Owning Your Story and Funding Your Vision

This session arms participants with tools to build their leadership brands and unlock new financial power. Experts will guide them through executive LinkedIn profiles, brand statements, pitch decks, and board seat positioning for the next Module. They'll also learn from local investors and venture capitalists about how to raise funds, scale ideas, and maximize capital — even inside a 9-to-5. Side hustles, investment literacy, and entrepreneurial scaling are all covered.

 

 Location: ECPI University 

**************************************************************************************

 

 

 MODULE (9) Thursday, November 6, 2025

 

BEEP Board Excellence Academy (BEA)  

Purpose: Empower African-American entrepreneurs and professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to serve effectively on corporate, nonprofit, and public sector boards. This adds a leadership dimension to the cohort, making it more attractive to participants and reinforcing the Chamber's commitment to leadership development.

Morning Session Components 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM:

• Board Fundamentals: Training on board structure, governance, fiduciary responsibilities, and the roles of board members.
• Strategic Leadership: Sessions on how to drive impactful decisions, manage board conflicts, and align board actions with organizational goals.
• Ethical Accountability: Understanding ethical decision-making and avoiding conflicts of interest on boards.

Evening Session 1:00 PM- 3:00 PM: Coaches Time/Mentorship and Training

Evening Session Components 3:00 PM- 5:00 PM:

• Board Readiness Assessment: Each participant completes a self-assessment to determine their readiness for board service, identifying areas for personal development.
• Mock Board Sessions: Participants experience simulated board meetings where they play active roles, making decisions and engaging in strategic discussions.
• Board Placement Pipeline: Graduates of the BEA are added to a Chamber-curated database of "Board-Ready Leaders" that can be shared with companies and organizations seeking diverse board members.

Location: ECPI University 

**************************************************************************************

 

MODULE (10) Thursday, December 4, 2025

 

"From Game Plan to Growth: Mapping the Moves That Matter"

(Your Business Blueprint, Backed by What You've Learned)

 

Reviewing Session Objectives:

• Participants will convert key lessons from the program into a custom growth plan
• Participants will then Identify 3–5 specific actions the participant will implement in their business
• Cohort Directors will provide the Chamber with trackable data points on participant outcomes
• Establish accountability touchpoints for post-graduation follow-up

Morning Session 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM:

Session Breakdown (2.5–3 hours):

Part I – Reflect to Refocus (30 mins)

• Quick journaling prompts:
  
  • "What concept from BEEP changed how I think about business?"
  • "Which strategy am I already applying?"
  • "Where am I still stuck?"

Part II – Strategy Lab (60 mins)

• Participants complete a BEEP Growth Blueprint
  (custom template — I can design one for you)
  
  • 3 Business Goals (6-month, 1-year, 3-year)
  • Financial Goal or Revenue Target
  • Marketing, Funding, or Operational Strategy
  • What tools or resources from BEEP are being applied
  • What external resources or funding is needed
  • Timeline with milestones

Part III – Peer Power Check (30 mins)

• Small group breakouts for accountability discussion
• Share one key strategy and get 2 ideas or resources from peers

Part IV – Digital Submission + Data Collection (30 mins)

• Participants submit Growth Plans via chamber google form portal

Evening Session 1:00 PM- 3:00 PM:

Pay it Forward Exercise and Pitch Practice

Location: ECPI University 

**************************************************************************************

MODULE (10) Thursday, December 4, 2025

 

Morning Session: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Capital Catalyst Pitch Competition – Practice Round

Participants will engage in a Capital Catalyst Pitch Practice, designed to simulate the high-pressure environment of pitching to investors.

This is not just an elevator pitch — it's a full-scale business pitch with a focus on financials, scalability, and market strategy. Each participant will have the opportunity to:

• Present their business model and revenue streams.
• Share financial projections for the next 12-36 months.
• Justify their valuation (how much their business is worth).
• Highlight their unique value proposition and competitive advantage.

Simulated Investor Panel (Practice)- Chamber coaches and mentors will act as Capital Catalysts (investors) who will ask direct, tough questions, such as:

• "What are your current profit margins?"
• "How much capital are you seeking, and how will you use it?"
• "What is your break-even point?"
• "How do you plan to scale within the next year?"
• "What's your customer acquisition cost?"

Immediate Feedback: After each pitch, participants will receive direct, actionable feedback on their financial clarity, confidence, and persuasiveness.

 

Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Graduation Prep & Live Capital Catalyst Pitch Competition

1:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Graduation Rehearsal

• Graduates will practice the ceremony flow, including stage movements, certificate presentation, and group photos.

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Capital Catalyst Pitch Competition (Live)

• Participants will present their business pitches to a panel of live judges, including seasoned investors, successful entrepreneurs, and business leaders.
• Each participant has 5 minutes to pitch, followed by 3 minutes of Q&A.
• This is a high-energy, high-stakes environment where graduates must clearly articulate their financials, strategy, and competitive edge.

Judging Criteria:

• Financial Clarity: Revenue model, profit margins, and projections.
• Scalability & Growth Potential: How the business can expand.
• Value Proposition: What makes this business investable?
• Confidence & Presence: Ability to own the room and respond to tough questions.

Awards:

• Capital Catalyst Champion: Top pitch presentation, based on financial clarity and potential.
• Most Scalable Business: Best business model with strong growth potential.
• Investor's Choice: Judge's pick for standout pitch.

 

Location: ECPI University 

**************************************************************************************

 

MODULE (11) Wednesday, January 7, 2026

🎓 B.E.E.P. 2025 Graduation Ceremony

Hosted by the Southeastern Chamber of Commerce

ECPI University | 3800 Paramount Drive, North Charleston, SC

6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Graduation Ceremony Overview:

The Southeastern Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the B.E.E.P. 2025 Graduation Ceremony, celebrating the achievements of our exceptional cohort of Black entrepreneurs. This evening is a moment to recognize their dedication, resilience, and growth as they transition from program participants to business leaders ready to make an impact.

Location: ECPI University 

**************************************************************************************

 

Schedule:
Following orientation, the group will meet 1-2 days per month as outlined below. Each full-day meeting will focus on an aspect of leadership, business and financial education.

 

BEEP MOVEMENT STRATEGIES:

 

PREPARE FOR CAPITAL:

-Foster positive financial institution relationships

-Build and understand modern credit worthiness

-Formulate and understand alternative opportunities and capital sources

 

WORK ON THE BUSINESS OPERATIONS

-Devote time to excel and recognize how the business is folding, sustaining, or progressing

-Invest in innovative strategies to retain talent, and promote a positive company culture

-Adapt to industry and client demands

 

SUSTAIN WHAT YOU BUILD

-Build a robust pipeline of clients and identify future “greater-value” business opportunities

-Generate multiple streams of business revenue

- Maintain a strategy to perform exceptionally

 

Apply as a Black Business Owner

The Black Economics Enterprise Program (BEEP) seeks, high-growth potential, Black businesses, and entrepreneurs. High-growth potential indicates the company’s ability to generate larger profits, increase production and resources, such as hiring new employees, purchasing equipment, and/or expanding a physical location or operation.

Minimum qualifications for consideration are:

• Black owned and operated business (>51%)
• Headquartered in Tri-County Area (Charleston, Summerville, McClellanville, Awendaw, Hollywood)
• Current business summary with a defined growth strategy 
• Annual Gross Revenue of $50,000 + (not mandatory)

Deadline:

The late registration deadline for applicants to be eligible for the 2025 Graduation is June 16, 2025 at 4pm.

DOWNLOAD FILLABLE APPLICATION HERE 

 

For more information regarding this Cohort- please contact Cam Oswald

843.263.3000 or cosw@southeasternchamber.org