Jane Veron & Peter Greene on the Power of the TAP Model

The Acceleration Project’s 2025 Spring for Small Business® Benefit welcomed over 175 supporters to celebrate entrepreneurship, recognize impact, and amplify the voices driving economic mobility. In this conversation, TAP CEO and Co-Founder Jane Veron and Board Chair Peter Greene, co-head of the Investment Management Group at Schulte Roth + Zabel, reflect on an evening that showcased progress, partnership, and the power of one-on-one support.

Jane Veron:
Peter, what a night. From the early moments with our small business owners and board members to the final conversations as guests headed out, the room was full of warmth and energy. What did the evening mean to you?
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Peter Greene:
Honestly, it meant a lot. I did not expect to feel so moved. I figured I would say a few words, help raise some funds, and that would be that. But then I looked around the room and saw people who have been part of my life for decades—like Stuart, my friend since middle school—and others I was meeting for the first time. It reminded me how much this organization means to all of us. What struck me most was the generosity in that room. People showed up, gave, sponsored, and truly cared. That kind of support means everything. TAP started as a favor to a friend. It has become something I believe in deeply.

Jane:
You have always believed in small businesses as engines of opportunity. And we both know, TAP’s origin was built on that belief—that with the right access and support, small business owners can thrive.
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Peter:
It is simple. The economy does not move without small businesses. They are your neighbor, your barber, your dry cleaner, your kid’s daycare. And helping them is not about your political party. Whether it is blue, red, purple, or anything else, supporting small business is just practical. From the start, TAP was founded on the idea of connecting small business owners with professionals taking a career break. The result? It worked.

Jane:
It more than worked. Today, 60% of our consultants hold full-time roles at top firms and still find time to give back. They bring real world insight and real heart. Our consultant network spans 24 states and speaks 22 languages. Sixty-two percent hold advanced degrees. That reach allows us to meet business owners where they are—in both language and location—and deliver personalized, high-quality support.
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Peter:
And the impact is actually measurable. TAP asked The Bridgespan Group, a respected advisor in the social sector, to evaluate our model. They have worked with the biggest names in philanthropy and nonprofit strategy. When they came back and told us that TAP generates $31 in economic return for every dollar invested, it was huge. That is a data-backed endorsement from a legitimate standard evaluator. Not just feel good, but fact based.

Jane:
That return only happens because of the people who believe in us. Our sponsors, donors, board members, and consultants are the engine behind the work. And our clients, like Jeniffer Salas from MJ Renovation Group, are the reason we do it. Her story was such a powerful moment in the program.
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Peter:
After hearing Jeniffer speak, it is clear why TAP selected her as our Small Business Owner of the Year. Her story, her confidence, and the way she is lifting her team and community embody everything we stand for. She truly earned this recognition.

Jane:
You also earned your moment, Peter. Your speech reminded everyone why leadership behind the scenes matters. You champion TAP with quiet persistence, strategic insight, humor, and integrity. When we announced your award, the outpouring was immediate. You are someone who makes people feel seen and supported.

Peter:
I really was humbled. That means a lot. TAP has always been about showing up. They help people succeed, one business at a time. That simplicity is powerful. Leadership matters, and I chose to get involved because of the strength of the mission. Supporting mom and pop shops, investing in local economies, and helping small business owners thrive is a cause worth rallying behind.

Jane:
We closed the night by asking for continued support. TAP is growing, adapting, and building tools to help even more entrepreneurs succeed. We are expanding our content, training more consultants, and deepening our relationships in communities across the country. But we cannot do it without investment.

Peter:
And it is not too late to get involved. In these uncertain times, when small businesses face growing challenges, our support matters more than ever. Whether you donate, volunteer, or introduce TAP to someone who needs support, there is a place for you in this story. The returns are tangible. The impact is lasting. And the opportunity to shape the future is right here.

Ready to join the movement?
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