FREEPORT — The Greater Freeport Partnership is excited to announce the opening of registration for the 2026 BASE Camp (Business Academy for Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs). This comprehensive program is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners with the essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive market.
In its third year, BASE Camp offers a unique opportunity for participants to learn about the critical elements of business ownership. The program consists of six evening classes spread over 12 weeks, starting on January 20. The class is created to support aspiring entrepreneurs, new business owners, small business owners looking to grow, and informal entrepreneurs looking to transition to a formal business model.
Program Highlights:
● Comprehensive Curriculum: The six-class series covers a wide range of topics, including business planning, market assessment, and competitor research.
● Expert Instruction: Local business experts will lead each session, providing valuable insights and interactive activities.
● Business Pitch Competition: Graduates of the full series will have the chance to compete for $3,500 in cash prizes to help grow their business.
● Resource Binder: Participants who complete all six classes will receive a binder of materials to serve as a business plan and guide for their first years of business development.
The full series of six-classes has a registration fee of $200, and individual classes can be attended for $50 each. However, scholarships are available to cover up to $150 of the full series for those who demonstrate a need. The scholarship questionnaire is available in the BASE Camp registration.
“BASE Camp proved to be a major success in 2025, with participants reporting strong business growth and overwhelmingly positive feedback stemming from the expert guidance and support they received,” said Leslie Mastroianni, Economic Development Manager. “Beyond the valuable business insights, the most meaningful outcome was the lasting network formed among entrepreneurs and business owners. Nearly a year later, they continue to exchange ideas, strategies, and support. We look forward to welcoming a new cohort and fostering those same impactful connections.”
Interested participants can register for the full series or individual classes by visiting the Greater Freeport Partnership website at greaterfreeport.com/basecamp. Each class will be held in person at the Greater Freeport Partnership office, located at 110 W. Main St., Freeport. For more information, please contact Leslie Mastroianni at the Greater Freeport Partnership at (815) 233-1350 or email lmastroianni@greaterfreeport.com.
