Admission to the Program

Application Process

There is no fee for applying to the Academy, nor tuition. Potential Academy members for the fall cohort may begin applying online May 10, 2024, with final applications accepted through July 22, 2024. Any certified minority-owned, woman-owned, or veteran-owned business can apply. The Academy will utilize email as the main mode of communication for the program. The following groups will be invited to apply:

All MDOT certified M/WBE & Veterans Firms

All City/County certified M/WBE & Veterans Firms

Selection Process

Applications will be evaluated by Tradepoint Atlantic and Academy leadership. Finalists will be interviewed before final selections are made. After acceptance into the program, Academy cohort members will undergo 1-1 assessments with Academy leadership to ensure the expert trainers and support teams fully know and understand the businesses represented in the cohort and have the opportunity to tailor and refine the workshop materials to Academy members’ needs.

Academy Member Qualifications

In business for at least one year to ensure they can be approved for minority business certification by state or local government offices.
Tradepoint is hoping to expand its construction business capacity so only professional, construction, supply, and maintenance businesses that support construction activities and projects will be considered for the inaugural cohort. Need to have their MBE/WBE Certification or are in the process of receiving approval.

Responsibilities and Commitment:

  • Initial Session: Attend a five-hour introductory session at the beginning of the program.
  • Weekly Sessions: Participate in seven two-hour sessions held weekly on Friday mornings at 8:30 am. Sessions take place at Tradepoint Atlantic offices in Sparrows Point over a six-week period.
  • Graduation Event: Attend a two-and-a-half hour graduation ceremony at the conclusion of the program.
  • Attendance Policy: A maximum of one session may be missed and must be made up as determined by the program administrators.
  • Media Consent: Agree to the use of the company’s name, logo, and individual likenesses (including photographs) in all promotional materials related to the Academy.
  • Feedback: Respond to surveys distributed after each workshop to gather insights and improve the experience.

Academy Timeline:

  • May: Applications go live.
  • June: Applications are reviewed, interviews conducted, and final applicants are selected for the cohort.
  • August: Applicants are announced and shared online and via social media.
  • September through October: 8-week program commences.
  • January: Cohort celebration event.