Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cost to participate in B-GAP?
There is no direct cost to you to participate in the full B-GAP program, if you:
- Are an NJSBDC client,
- Meet the participation criteria and
- Agree to the Commitment Agreement.
This is a service currently provided through your federal and state tax dollars at work for you through Northwest NJSBDC.
However if you are not a NJSBDC client, do not meet the participate criteria or do not sign the Commitment Agreement, there is no current opportunity to participate in a comprehensive Assessment and consulting program as provided by B-GAP Advisors.
How can I participate in B-GAP?
To participate in the full B-GAP program, you must:
- Be an NJSBDC client and
- Meet the Participation Criteria and
- Sign the Participation/Management Commitment Agreement
What are the Participation Criteria for B-GAP?
To participate in B-GAP, you must meet the following criteria:
-
Have revenue of $1 million or more -
Have 10 or more employees -
Sign the Participation Agreement
Can I be part of the B-GAP if my company doesn't meet the Participation Criteria?
The full B-GAP program is only available to businesses that meet the criteria and make the required Participation/Management Commitment. So the short answer is “No you may not be a B-GAP participant”.
B-GAP was designed for SMBs that have gotten beyond their initial start-up phase and have adequate resources to adhere to the Participation Commitment.
If you don't meet these criteria, you may wish to check out other 3rd party programs that address a company's long-term growth plans. Most of these programs are of an educational variety and may provide limited one-on-one consulting.
What are my alternatives if I can't become a B-GAP client/participant?
The following alternative is available through Northwest NJSBDC for non B-GAP clients/participants.
-
You are eligible for the standard repetoire of SBDC services or
Can I use B-GAP for one of my clients instead of my own business/company?
The full B-GAP program is only available to businesses that meet the criteria and make the required Participation/Management Commitment. So the short answer is “No you may not be a B-GAP participant”.
B-GAP was designed for SMBs that have gotten beyond their initial start-up phase and have adequate resources to adhere to the Participation Commitment.
If you don't meet these criteria, you may wish to check out other 3rd party programs that address a company's long-term growth plans. Most of these programs are of an educational variety and may provide limited one-on-one consulting.
How is B-GAP different from other growth accelerator programs?
The B-GAP (Business Growth Accelerator Protocol) has the following characteristics that set it apart from other accelerator programs:
- Starts with a comprehensive assessment that covers all areas of the business
- Produces an in-depth Initial Report containing recommendations for projects designed to remove growth impediments or stimulate growth activity
- Provides on-going, intensive one-on-one consulting with an approved B-GAP Advisor
- Keeps its focus on outcomes that strategically support/stimulate growth opportunities
Most other growth accelerator programs are education-based with limited or no one-on-one consulting.