Manufacturing Accelerator Program: High-Growth Strategies for Manufacturers
The Manufacturing Accelerator Program (MAP) is a national, virtual executive education program that provides small manufacturing businesses with the education, tools, and actionable strategies they need to grow and thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.
MAP’s inaugural cohort launched in the summer of 2025 with 60 businesses from across the United States. The program was designed in collaboration with industry experts and is offered at no cost to participating businesses thanks to ICIC’s generous funding partners.
Apply for MAP
2026 Cohorts
Summer Cohort First Class: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Fall Cohort First Class: Wednesday, August 26, 2026
MAP cohorts are fully virtual and open to U.S.-based manufacturing firms. Cohorts include 12 classes held weekly on Wednesdays from 6–8 p.m. ET, plus a graduation determined by class vote.
Space is limited. Apply early. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all seats are filled.
MAP Eligibility
MAP cohorts are capped at ~50 businesses, and applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all seats are filled.
To be eligible for the MAP program, your company must:
- Be an independent, for-profit manufacturing company
- Have at least 10 full-time employees*
- Represent or be located in an underserved community**
*Companies with fewer than 10 full-time employees will be evaluated based on business growth trajectory and readiness to benefit from the program.
**Not sure if you’re located in an under-resourced community? Apply to find out or email us at MAP@icic.org.
Why Enroll in MAP
Developed and taught by industry experts and practitioners, MAP is a program built by manufacturers, for manufacturers. It equips participants with the tools they need to compete, innovate, and scale effectively through expert-led classes and peer-to-peer networking.
MAP will help you:
- Develop and implement a profitable, growth-oriented business strategy
- Enhance operational efficiency and technology integration
- Strengthen leadership and organizational capabilities
- Secure capital for expansion
“MAP gave us valuable structure and perspective as a growing manufacturing business. The program helped sharpen our strategic thinking, improve operational focus, and validate decisions we were making on the shop floor and in management. Just as important, it reinforced confidence in our ability to scale while maintaining quality and service.”
LYNN THORNTON
President and Owner, Corrugated Packaging
Fitchburg, Massachusetts
MAP Program Alumna
Have a Question About MAP?
Email us at MAP@icic.org.
MAP Program Structure
The program is comprised of 12 virtual weekly classes that cover all the key elements needed to be a successful manufacturing firm.
To view a detailed program curriculum, visit: icic.org/map-curriculum
Meet the Director
Brian Becker, the Founder & CEO of Becker Growth Strategy, is the program’s director. He brings more than 12 years of experience in positioning businesses for rapid growth.
MAP’s Advisory Board
Nominate a Business for MAP
Do you know a manufacturing business that’s ready to grow?
Nominating a company allows our team to reach out directly and invite them to apply for the Manufacturing Accelerator Program. Referrals from partners, alumni, and supporters help us connect with manufacturers who might not otherwise hear about the opportunity.
Note: Nominations are welcome, but not required—any eligible business is encouraged to apply directly.
Program Sponsors & Supporters
The program is offered to all participants at no cost, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and supporters:
