The Small Business Center Network has announced a new class offering to be held at the Hoke Center campus starting Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 from 12 to 2 p.m. that will entail two more consecutive Thursday sessions concluding on Thursday, Feb. 19. The topic will be on Agribusiness and the course will be taught by Michael Mollohan.

“This is geared for residents who are ready to grow their farming dreams into a thriving business,” said Holden, director of the SBCN, in a press release. “The series is designed for small farm owners, homesteaders and anyone passionate about agriculture.”

Participants will learn practical strategies for soil preparation, crop planning and farm management, while exploring marketing and financial tools to make your operation sustainable and profitable. This hands-on series will also highlight opportunities to collaborate with culinary and horticulture programs.

There is no cost for the sessions and registration can be made here: https://www.ncsbc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=460460001 

Other classes being offered through March include: Navigating Food Entrepreneurship; Growing Rural Prosperity: Small Farm & Ag Business in NC; AI Tools for Real Business, Real Results/Spanish (SCC Robbins Center Location); and Setting the Table Series with Chef Dani Black (Online): Class 1 - Food is the Product for Sale; Class 2 Penny Ballgame (Start Up Assistance); Class 3 - Strength in Numbers; and Class 4 - Rules, Regulations and Permits. Classes are free and additional details can be found here. 

Additionally, the NC Community College System’s SBCN, in partnership with the Wells Fargo Foundation, is launching the SBCN Startup Showdown — a new statewide opportunity for entrepreneurs across North Carolina. Applications open March 1–April 7, 2026 and if accepted will offer mentorship & training; pitch development and the opportunity to win $30,000 in startup funding if selected. The Showdown is open to entrepreneurs in all eight SBCN regions including Sandhills Community College.

Visit https://www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/sbcnstartupshowdown/ to apply.