Business owners in Ramsey and Hennepin counties, here's your shot at the big leagues. The local government arms in these vibrant Minnesotan counties are rolling out the red carpet for entrepreneurs with growth on their minds. The program's called CEO Now, and it's swinging its doors wide open for applications. This is where small business owners can dive into a masterclass on the nitty-gritty of enterprise - think strategy, finances, and a sales process that actually sticks.

The counties are putting their money where their mouth is, offering CEO Now at zero cost to eligible businesses. It's an investment, they say, in the backbone of the local economy. And the receipt of this investment? A three-year strategic roadmap, a network beefed up with fellow founders and CEOs, and the kind of confidence that just might transform your business. "Participants of CEO Now will join a group of local founders and CEOs to learn how to think about their businesses systematically," a statement from Ramsey County's official announcement revealed.

But don't drag your feet. The clock's ticking with applications accepted from March 14 through April 25. The whole shebang's aimed at businesses ready to level up, with floating heads in the Ramsey and Hennepin counties' offices nodding to the growth potential. They're looking for the small players with eyes on the prize and, of course, you've got to fit the bill in terms of eligibility.

Details on who's in the running, and what you need to throw your hat in the ring, are up for grabs on the Ramsey County website. A quick visit and a few clicks and you could be on your way to walking through your own business with a fresh set of expert eyes. And that professional network they're promising? It might just be the bunch of allies you need to wrestle down the challenges ahead. "Participants will complete the program with an expanded professional network," the announcement from Ramsey County insisted.