PORTSMOUTH — The U.S. Small Business Administration has launched the 2018 Emerging Leaders initiative for executives of small businesses poised for growth in emerging markets.

Recruitment for the 2018 training cycle in New Hampshire is open with classes scheduled to begin in early April. Emerging Leaders provides free entrepreneurship education and training for executives of small, poised-for-growth companies that are potential job creators. The series includes nearly 100 hours of classroom time and opportunities for small business owners to work with experienced coaches and mentors, attend workshops and develop connections with their peers, local leaders and the financial community.

Since its inception in 2008, the Emerging Leaders Initiative has trained more than 5,000 small business owners. For information and to register for the 2018 Emerging Leaders, visit www.interise.org/sbaemergingleaders, call (603) 225-1400 or email Rachael.roderick@sba.gov.