Contact Us

Hours
Monday–Friday | 8A-5P

Phone
(706) 617-7098 | Dr. Byrd

Location
Columbus, GA

Welcome to The B.E.I. Business Database Initiative!

Our goal is to create a comprehensive and up-to-date database of minority-owned businesses, family-owned businesses, and other entrepreneurial ventures in Columbus, GA.

This initiative aims to support local businesses, foster community connections, and provide valuable insights into the economic landscape of our region.

To achieve this, we need your help. By clicking here, you will be contributing to a valuable resource that will benefit our community and help local businesses thrive.

Your participation is crucial, and we appreciate your support.

who we are

The Byrds Entrepreneurial Institute:

Cultivating Success, Inspiring Growth

Welcome to the Byrd’s Entrepreneurial Institute

(The B.E.I.),

where passion meets purpose and dreams transform into reality.

We are a dynamic and dedicated non-profit Community Based organization committed to empowering minority individuals with the entrepreneurial skills and knowledge they need to create sustainable businesses.

Our mission is to foster economic independence and community resilience, paving the way for a brighter future.

a Welcome letter from

the Byrd’s Entrepreneurial Institute

Dear Mentors, Students, and Entrepreneurs,

Welcome to the Byrd’s Entrepreneurial Institute

(The B.E.I.)!

We are thrilled to have you join our vibrant community dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial growth and innovation.

Our vision is to empower and equip minority individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to create sustainable businesses, fostering economic independence and community resilience.

our innovative Mentors:

At the Byrds Entrepreneurial Institute (The B.E.I.), we are embracing the future of mentorship by leveraging cutting-edge technology to connect our budding entrepreneurs with seasoned experts from around the globe.

Our innovative approach ensures that our students receive top-notch guidance and support without the constraints of physical location.

For Students:

Congratulations on taking this significant step towards realizing your entrepreneurial dreams.

You are about to embark on a transformative journey filled with learning, growth, and opportunities. Our programs are designed to provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to build and sustain successful businesses.

For Entrepreneurs:

Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your existing business, the B.E.I. is here to support you every step of the way. Our workshops, educational programs, and support services are tailored to meet your unique needs and help you achieve your business goals.

At the b.E.i., we are committed to:

  • Empowerment: Providing the knowledge and skills to start and sustain successful businesses.

  • Economic Development: Contributing to the economic growth and sustainability of minority communities.

  • Innovation: Fostering a culture of creativity and innovation.

  • Leadership: Developing future leaders who can inspire and lead their communities.

  • Inclusivity: Creating an inclusive environment that supports diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

  • Legacy Building: Helping entrepreneurs build and maintain businesses that can be passed down through generations.

  • Sustainability: Ensuring businesses are equipped with the tools and knowledge to thrive long-term.

  • Mental Resilience: By teaching mental resilience, we prepare our entrepreneurs to face challenges head-on, adapt to changes, and thrive under pressure.

Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey.

Together, we will create lasting impact and drive positive change in our communities.

Welcome to the B.E.I. family!

Warm regards,

Johnny Byrd, II, CPS, m.a. human services counseling, and

Dr. Mercedeez Byrd, DBA

Here are some of our teaching methods…

  • Interactive Workshops

    Our interactive workshops are designed to engage students in hands-on learning experiences. Each session focuses on practical skills and real-world applications, allowing students to actively participate and apply what they learn immediately. These workshops foster collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.

  • ENTREPRENEUR MINDSET DEVELOPMENT

    Our teaching methods are designed to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset. We focus on developing resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset in our students. Through reflective exercises and mindset training, we help students build the confidence and perseverance needed to succeed in the entrepreneurial world.

  • Mentorship and Coaching

    Mentorship is a cornerstone of our teaching methods. Each student is paired with an experienced mentor who provides personalized guidance, support, and feedback. Our mentors help students navigate their entrepreneurial journey, offering insights based on their own experiences and expertise.

  • Peer Learning

    We believe in the power of peer learning and collaboration. Our students work on their businesses as a group which encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. By collaborating with their peers, students gain different perspectives and learn how to work effectively in a team environment.

Get started today!

  • Contact US

    It all begins with an idea. contact us today for more information.

  • Admissions

    Welcome to the b.e.i. We will be happy to welcome you on this exciting and enriching journey! Please apply by filling the form. Our b.e.i. team will evaluate your candidacy and will be in touch with you in the next days, to follow-up on the process.

our partners

our partners

At The Byrd's Entrepreneurial Institute, our mission to empower aspiring, Established, and Scaling entrepreneurs would not be possible without the support of our dedicated partners. These Individuals, organizations, and businesses share our vision for fostering innovation, creativity, and economic growth within our community. By partnering with us, they help provide the resources, expertise, and opportunities necessary for our participants to succeed.


Below the Node is a local leader in botanical design and education. With a passion for plants and sustainability, Amy and her team bring expertise and creativity to our events, such as the "Create & Escape: Entrepreneurial Tropical Terrariums" workshop (January 2025). Their commitment to community engagement and environmental stewardship aligns perfectly with our mission, making them an invaluable partner in our efforts to inspire and educate the next generation of entrepreneurs.

click here to Become a Partner and Join Us in Making a Difference