Growing a business is exciting, but reaching the next stage often requires more than hard work. Many business owners build a solid customer base and generate steady revenue, yet struggle with hiring the right team, improving operations, expanding into new markets, or creating systems that support long term growth.

If your business has reached that point, Build Up Sacramento 2027 was created for you.

Supported by the 2026 City of Sacramento Innovation Grant Program, Build Up Sacramento is a no cost business accelerator designed for established Sacramento businesses that are ready to grow with intention. Led by GFN: Growth Factory Nonprofit, the program provides experienced guidance, practical accountability, and a community of peers committed to scaling their businesses.

Designed for Businesses Ready for Their Next Stage

Build Up Sacramento is not designed for businesses that are still exploring an idea. Instead, it is built for founders and business owners who have already established a company and are ready to strengthen what they have built.

Whether your goal is to hire employees, reach new customers, improve internal operations, or prepare your business for long term sustainable growth, the program is designed to help you build the foundation needed to scale successfully.

GFN approaches business growth through a venture capital lens, helping participants evaluate their companies the way investors and experienced operators do. The result is a practical approach focused on building stronger businesses, not just growing faster.

Learn From Experienced Operators and Fellow Business Owners

Over four months, participants will work alongside experienced entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and operating practitioners who understand the challenges of growing a business.

The program includes:

  • Personalized advisory tailored to your business
  • Peer to peer learning with a cohort of fellow business owners
  • Mastermind style discussions focused on solving real business challenges
  • Individual office hours for one-on-one guidance
  • Connections to mentors, partners, and valuable business resources

Rather than relying on generic classroom instruction, Build Up Sacramento emphasizes practical strategies that participants can immediately apply to their own companies.

Who Should Apply?

Build Up Sacramento is designed for business owners and CEOs leading established Sacramento businesses who are committed to growth.

Ideal applicants:

  • Have operated their business for at least one year
  • Maintain a presence within the City of Sacramento
  • Have demonstrated consistent revenue
  • Have a team that is ready to grow
  • Want to improve operations while expanding their customer base

There is no formal revenue or employee minimum required to apply. However, the strongest applicants are businesses that have established a solid foundation and are ready to take meaningful steps toward scaling.

Program Details

Build Up Sacramento runs from January 2027 through May 2027 and is intentionally designed for busy business owners.

The program follows a blended weekly and biweekly schedule with individual office hours between sessions, allowing participants to receive consistent support while continuing to operate their businesses.

Sessions will be held at Connect Labs in UC Davis Aggie Square, located at 4480 2nd Avenue in Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood.

To ensure every participant receives meaningful support, only 20 businesses will be selected for the 2027 cohort through an application and interview process.

Learn More Before You Apply

GFN is hosting virtual information sessions where prospective applicants can learn more about the program, the application process, and what to expect if selected. It’s also an opportunity to ask questions and determine whether Build Up Sacramento is the right fit for your business.

Upcoming sessions:

  • August 20
  • August 25
  • September 2
  • September 4
  • September 8

RSVP for an Info Session here.

Apply Early

Applications are open now and will remain open until Monday, November 30, 2026.

Beginning September 1, qualified applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis, so businesses are strongly encouraged to apply early rather than waiting until the deadline.

Apply here.

Wrap-Up

Every successful business reaches a point where growth requires new systems, stronger leadership, and better strategies. Build Up Sacramento is designed to help business owners make that transition with expert guidance, accountability, and a network of experienced mentors and peers.

If your Sacramento business has established a strong foundation and you’re ready to strengthen your operations, prepare for sustainable growth, and confidently take your next step, now is the time to apply. With only 20 businesses selected for the 2027 cohort, submitting your application early gives you the best opportunity to join a community focused on building stronger businesses for the future.

Interested in learning about more programs that support entrepreneurs? Join our newsletter here to stay updated on opportunities and resources.