WAYNE, N.J. - s4story -- Anna D. Banks, Founder and Managing Director of Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc., has completed the LEADS Cohort II Mentoring Program through the New Jersey Small Business Development Center at William Paterson University.

Supported by M&T Bank, LEADS is designed to empower, educate, and elevate entrepreneurs through mentorship, business education, financial literacy, professional development, networking, and pitch preparation. The 13-week program helps small business owners strengthen business models, improve operations, build leadership capacity, and prepare for growth.

As small businesses continue to drive New Jersey's economy, LEADS helps founders sharpen strategy, expand networks, and position their companies to support job creation, stronger communities, and long-term economic development.

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Banks completed the program alongside fellow graduates including Marilyn Denise Davis, Gladian Rivera, Pauline Gaudio, Nicole Sweeney, Lindsay Lugo, Farida Mercedes, Omer Orman, and Joahan Pineda. Cohort II brought together entrepreneurs from diverse industries, backgrounds, and business stages.

Participants received instruction and support from respected business and community leaders including Dr. Melissa Baralt, Dr. Lashauna Dean, Stephen C. Betts, Ph.D., Marlon Addison, and Layla Andrade.

In recognition of her completion, Banks received a LEADS Certificate of Completion, Congressional Recognition, a New Jersey Senate and General Assembly Citation, and recognition from the Passaic County Board of County Commissioners.

"Entrepreneurship can be rewarding, but it can also be isolating," Banks said. "LEADS provided access to mentors, business leaders, and fellow founders who challenged us to think bigger, plan smarter, and build stronger businesses. That support creates a ripple effect that benefits entire communities."

Banks also participated in pitch development activities, strengthening her ability to communicate Thrive Leadership Institute's mission and value to potential partners, funders, and stakeholders.

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Through Thrive Leadership Institute, Banks supports workforce readiness, AI literacy, leadership development, career readiness, and future-of-work training. She plans to use the insights and relationships gained through LEADS to expand programs that help workforce professionals, educators, organizations, and entrepreneurs prepare for the future of work.

The completion of LEADS Cohort II reinforces Banks' commitment to local economic development in New Jersey by helping people and small businesses become more prepared, confident, and positioned for sustainable success.

About Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc.
Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc. prepares people—not systems—for the future of work through AI literacy, leadership development, workforce readiness, career readiness, and professional growth programs.

For speaking engagements, training opportunities, strategic partnerships, or program information, visit https://ThriveLeadershipInstituteInc.com.