The Small Business Management Scholarship Program is a 10-month program run by Portland Community College’s Small Business Development Center with program instructor Dr. Sean Harry. This program is designed to amplify and support small businesses and their job growth and specifically train these businesses in valuable skills to help increase revenue, improve overall operations, and hire employees. Additionally, each participant receives a complimentary, two-year membership to the Portland Metro Chamber at the end of the program. Each year, the Chamber awards program scholarships to small business owners who are ready to move their business to the next level. This year marks the 15 year mark of helping small businesses succeed with this incredible program.
The scholarships are made possible thanks to our long-standing and generous partnership with valued Chamber member, Bank of America.
According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Bank of America is the number one small business lender across the U.S. for the 17th consecutive quarter. The company’s Center for Business Empowerment offers entrepreneurs and business owners a comprehensive suite of tools, expert insights, and step‑by‑step guidance—covering everything from funding and cash flow management to taxes, recordkeeping, and growth strategies—to help them launch, run, and scale their businesses.
The 2026 cohort reflects a wide range of industries including health and wellness, food and beverage, and creative services.
The Portland Metro Chamber is excited to welcome the following 2026 class:
Chelsea Sustello- Portland Balloon Decor
Erica Olson- Ben & Jerry’s New Avenues For Youth
Jason Scott- Feral Fungi
Sean Light- High Order
Jeannine Mills Goodling- SMASHED! Provisions
Kevin Florence- Good Friends Playschool
Kelly and Michelle Kaliher- Sinister Coffee and Creamery
Paul McMahon- Endeavor Psychiatry
Stacy Humphrey- Stacy Humphrey Consulting
Suzanne LaGrande- The Blosser Center
If you want learn more about this program and how to apply for the 2027 class, please contact Becca at rmcculloch@portlandalliance.com.