The Acceleration Project to Host ‘Spring for Small Business’ 2026 Benefit Honoring Matt Nord of Apollo Global Management

Celebrating small business impact and recognizing outstanding entrepreneurs, the event brings together leaders from finance, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship

NEW YORK — April 3, 2026 — The Acceleration Project (TAP), a nonprofit empowering under-resourced small business owners through high-impact consulting and mentorship, will host its 2026 spring benefit, ‘Spring for Small Business’®, on Thursday, April 16th. The evening will celebrate entrepreneurship, highlight outstanding small business owners, and honor Matt Nord, Co-Head of Private Equity and Head of Hybrid at Apollo Global Management, for his leadership in advancing economic opportunity.

TAP is honored to recognize Matt Nord for his leadership in expanding opportunity for small business owners. An early champion of TAP within Apollo, Matt helped introduce the organization to the Apollo Opportunity Foundation and has played an important role in building that relationship. TAP is one of 28 nonprofit organizations selected to receive support from the Apollo Opportunity Foundation, a transformative grant that strengthens TAP’s operational capacity and expands its ability to deliver tailored services that help entrepreneurs overcome systemic barriers, achieve sustainable growth, and foster economic mobility. Matt’s leadership reflects the value of strong corporate and philanthropic partnerships in advancing small business growth.

The event, held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Level 10, Starrett-Lehigh Building (601 W 26th St., New York), will feature a cocktail reception, networking opportunities, client spotlight videos, a silent auction, and a curated TAP Business Showcase featuring products and services from small businesses that have received TAP support. During the evening, TAP will present its third annual Small Business Owner of the Year Award to a TAP client whose business growth reflects the impact of the organization’s mentorship and strategic guidance.

“Spring for Small Business® is an opportunity to celebrate the innovators who drive our economy and the leaders, like Matt Nord of Apollo Global Management, who recognize the importance of supporting their growth,” said Jane Veron, CEO and Co-Founder of The Acceleration Project. “The trust and belief in TAP’s model from leaders like Matt underscores the value of our model, which helps small business owners build stronger, more resilient companies through mentorship, strategic guidance, and critical resources.”

According to an analysis by The Bridgespan Group, every $1 invested in TAP generates $10 in economic and community value, demonstrating a 10:1 Social Return on Investment. That impact is reflected in outcomes such as revenue growth, job creation, and local reinvestment that strengthen both small businesses and the communities around them. Since its inception, TAP has delivered more than 11,300 customized engagements nationwide, including more than 600 Deep Dive programs designed to provide highly tailored guidance that helps small business owners achieve sustainable success and advance economic mobility.

Spring for Small Business® is a fundraising event, and all proceeds will support TAP’s mission to empower small business owners with the guidance, tools, and expertise they need to thrive. To purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit theaccelerationproject.org or contact events@theaccelerationproject.org.

About The Acceleration Project

The Acceleration Project (TAP) is a nonprofit organization that empowers under-resourced small business owners through high-impact consulting and mentorship. Founded in 2012, TAP supports small businesses nationwide across a wide range of industries with tailored guidance spanning finance, operations, marketing, and strategy, delivered at no cost to the small business owner. TAP works alongside entrepreneurs from early traction through growth and exit planning. To learn more, visit theaccelerationproject.org.

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