The University of Texas Permian Basin recently received a $100,000 grant to host the ConocoPhillips Small Biz Builder program in Odessa. This program is designed to help local entrepreneurs and small business owners build stronger, more sustainable businesses through hands-on training, expert mentorship, and practical financial tools.
Led by Brian Shedd, executive director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development at UTPB, and Stephanie Griffin, Program Director, the Odessa cohort will launch at Odessa College on July 23. Registration is now open.
“At UT Permian Basin we are committed to supporting the economic growth of our region,” UTPB President Sandra Woodley said in a news release. “Thanks to the generous support of ConocoPhillips, the ConocoPhillips Small Biz Builder program will empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, training, and mentorship they need to build strong, sustainable businesses that contribute to a thriving West Texas economy. We are thankful for this partnership and look forward to seeing the lasting impact it will have on business owners and communities across the Permian Basin.”
“ConocoPhillips has shown a deep, ongoing commitment to the Permian Basin,” said Griffin. “The ConocoPhillips Small Biz Builder program is a reflection of that commitment, providing aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with the resources, training, and connections they need to grow their businesses—and grow them well.”
The program uses curriculum from CO.STARTERS, a nationally recognized model that walks entrepreneurs through business idea development, customer discovery, and business modeling. It is paired with tools and training from FINSYNC, a leading small business financial platform that helps participants manage cash flow, streamline operations, and make confident decisions. Later-stage entrepreneurs will also work with the UTPB Small Business Development Center to refine their businesses for additional growth and success.
“This program is more than theory. It’s practical, relevant, and deeply community-driven,” said Shedd. “It’s about creating long-term impact by giving entrepreneurs the foundation and tools to lead successful businesses right here in West Texas.”
“We recognize that supporting local entrepreneurs is essential to foster a strong community,” stated Aaron Hunter, Vice President of the Delaware Basin at ConocoPhillips. “The ConocoPhillips Small Biz Builder program is one of the ways we’re investing in the continued success of the Permian Basin. We’re proud to partner with UTPB to equip small businesses with the tools they need to grow sustainably.”
Following the Odessa program, the next cohort is planned for Carlsbad, New Mexico this fall, with hopes to expand to additional communities in 2026. These efforts are part of ConocoPhillips’ work to promote entrepreneurship and strengthen economic resilience in the regions where it operates.
To register for the Odessa session and/or to learn more about the ConocoPhillips Small Biz Builder program, visit:
Program Overview : Start Date: July 23, 2025 Location: Odessa College Length: 6 weeks Information and Application: ConocoPhillips Small Biz Builder | ConocoPhillips Eligibility: Open to local entrepreneurs and small business owners Upcoming Cohorts: Carlsbad, NM (Fall 2025), more locations anticipated in 2026
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