Vendor Development Academy

The academy, formerly known as the Mentor-Protégé Program, is a free one-year training program designed to support small and emerging small businesses by:

• strengthening capacity
• expanding contracting readiness
• fostering strategic mentorship relationships in public and private contracting opportunities

The program, offered in partnership with Alamo Colleges, provides guidance, training and business development support. Small business owners who are accepted into the academy have the unique opportunity to be paired with a business mentor where they can gain industry knowledge, improve operations, and expand contracting opportunities. This enables mentors to contribute to building a stronger local business community.

NOTE: Application details will be made available in February 2026. Application process will occur annually, opening June 1 and closing July 1.