Application Closed
Applications will open Monday, June 1, 2026 at 10 a.m. CT.
The Vendor Development Academy is a City of San Antonio initiative designed to support small local businesses by offering opportunity for free training and business development.
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the Vendor Development Academy, applicants must first meet the following requirements:
- Be eligible for the Small Business Economic Development Advocacy (SBEDA)
- Be registered as a Certified Vendor with the City of San Antonio.
- Be certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) via Supply SA.
- Be headquartered within the San Antonio Metropolitan Statistical Area (which includes Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina, and Wilson counties).
- Ensure each majority owner has a personal net worth not exceeding $2.047 million.
- Commit to full participation in the one year program.
- Attend all required sessions, complete all required courses and electives within the program year, and actively engage with their assigned mentor.
- Complete all required surveys and progress reports.
Application
Applications for the Vendor Development Academy 2026 Cohort will open on Monday, June 1, 2026, and close on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
Attend one of our Information Sessions to learn more about the application process.
If you would like to be placed on a list of individuals that will be notified of application release updates or events, please reach out to Glenn Goolsby, the Program Administrator, at GGoolsby5@alamo.edu or 210-485-0831.
Benefits
Participants in the Vendor Development Academy gain access to a range of supports designed to strengthen their business foundation and expand their opportunities.
- Strengthened Business Competencies
- Builds foundational skills in key business functions to enhance operational effectiveness and competitiveness.
- Increased Contract Readiness
- Prepares businesses to confidently navigate procurement processes and compete for contracting opportunities.
- Access to Expert Guidance
- Provides direct support from industry professionals and program staff to address challenges and apply best practices.
- Expanded Professional Network
- Connects participants with peers and partners, fostering collaborations and long-term business relationships.