The AFCEA Small Business Center of Excellence Mentor-Protégé Program (SBCOE MPP) is an informal mentorship program designed as a benefit for AFCEA International corporate member companies. Since its inception in 2018, this program has assisted more than 100 companies along their business journeys. From coaching to networking, there are many benefits in store for each participant. We are so excited to have you join us!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in the program?
The AFCEA SBCOE MPP is open to all AFCEA International corporate member companies to participate as a mentor or protégé.
What are the benefits of corporate membership and how do I sign up to become a corporate member?
- Appear in AFCEA’s online directory. More than 5,000 unique clicks per month. Users search on NAICS, business categories, contract vehicles, customers, region, small business categories and other key words.
- Attend chapter or international luncheons, seminars, conferences and symposia at the member rate.
- Corporate members receive a 30% discount on print advertising in SIGNAL Magazine.
- Publish your corporate press releases in the Corporate Member News Section of the AFCEA website.
- Sponsor/Exhibit at the member rate.
Learn more about AFCEA membership or join today!
What is the format of the program?
The program involves two components:
- Two speaker events followed by networking
- One-on-One meetings between the mentor-protégé matched pairs
What is the time commitment required?
As with any worthwhile effort, results are commensurate with what you invest in the endeavor. That said, the structured part of the program involves:
- 2 hours for the speaker event/networking in February and May
- 1 to 2 one-on-one sessions a month between mentor-protégé, unless the pairs wish to meet more frequently
What are the dates and times for the 2025 monthly speaker/networking events?
Thursday, February 6, 2025, and Thursday, May 29, 2025. All events will be held between 5 and 7 p.m. ET.
Are the events in person?
All events follow a hybrid format. The in-person event will be held at the AFCEA headquarters located at 4114 Legato Road, Suite 1000, in Fairfax, Virginia. Local program particpants are encouraged to attend in person. Meeting links will be provided for virtual attendees
Is there an application fee?
There is no application fee. The program is open to corporate members of AFCEA.
How do I apply?
The application period for 2025 for protégés is closed. Companies interested in becoming mentors should contact AFCEA's Small Business Programs Manager, Bo Inscho.
Are there sponsorship opportunities?
Yes! There are two levels of sponsorship:
- Gold sponsor - $500
- Silver sponsor - $250
What are the benefits of becoming a sponsor?
Gold sponsorship includes:
- Company logo and hyperlink in the “know before you go” email
- Social media announcement on the AFCEA Small Business Committee LinkedIn page
- A 3-minute speech at the beginning of the event
- Company logo and hyperlink sent in a follow-up email to attendees
Silver sponsorship includes:
- Company logo and hyperlink in the “know before you go” email
- Social media announcement on the AFCEA Small Business Committee LinkedIn page
- Company announced as a Silver Sponsor at the beginning of the event
- Company logo and hyperlink sent in a follow-up email to attendees
How do I sign up to be a sponsor?
Contact AFCEA's Small Business Programs Manager, Bo Inscho.
Who do I contact for additional questions regarding the AFCEA SBCOE MPP?
Please email Aaron Tilock.