CeriFi and Wake Forest University Introduce Unique Small Business Wealth Advisor Program

CeriFi and Wake Forest University Team Up for Innovative Small Business Wealth Advisor™ Program

In a bold move to enhance the financial advisory landscape, CeriFi has officially launched the Small Business Wealth Advisor™ (SBWA™) program in collaboration with Wake Forest University. This pioneering initiative marks the debut of the first and only university-accredited curriculum specifically crafted to prepare financial advisors to effectively assist private business owners through every phase of their entrepreneurial journey.

With over 34.8 million small businesses operating across the United States, the demand for specialized financial guidance has never been higher. However, current statistics reveal a significant gap: fewer than 5% of financial advisors possess the necessary training to meet the intricate needs of these business owners. The SBWA™ program is designed to bridge that divide, empowering advisors to support entrepreneurs from the initial stages of startup to later phases involving succession and beyond.

James Dalton, Chief Academic Officer at CeriFi, emphasized the pressing need for comprehensive guidance tailored to business owners. "Advisors have long focused on exit strategies, but most business owners require trusted guidance well before that point," he remarked. The SBWA™ program seeks to change the narrative, positioning advisors as essential partners throughout their clients’ business journeys rather than merely at the end of their ownership.

A Curriculum with Real-World Impact

The SBWA™ certificate combines academic rigor with practical applications, developed in partnership with Wake Forest University and leveraging Dalton Education’s expertise. Participants will engage with a robust 40-hour self-paced curriculum, featuring video lessons, podcasts, and actionable planning tools that yield immediate relevance. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped to serve as Business Owner Lifecycle Advisors, adeptly managing the complex interplay between business decisions and personal wealth creation.

Kerry Shronts, Assistant Dean for Executive and Professional Education at Wake Forest University, reflected on the significance of this program, stating, "This initiative represents the next evolution of financial education. Our collaboration with CeriFi ensures that participants not only gain esteemed academic recognition but also the tools necessary to make a tangible difference for their clients."

Enrollment and Course Preview

Starting January 2026, enrollment for the SBWA™ certificate program will officially open. Advisors interested in honing their skills can take advantage of an introductory offer, which provides free access to the first module of the course, allowing potential participants to preview the invaluable content that awaits them.

For more information on the SBWA™ program and to enroll, prospective participants can visit www.dalton-education.com/small-business-wealth-advisor.

About CeriFi

CeriFi has established itself as a frontrunner in providing advanced education and certification programs tailored for financial services professionals. Through its diverse portfolio of trusted brands and institutional partnerships, CeriFi empowers learners to acquire the knowledge and credentials needed to not only advance their careers but also ensure their clients' success.

About Wake Forest University

Founded in 1834, Wake Forest University is a prestigious private institution celebrated for its commitment to both rigorous academic standards and practical learning experiences. The university prides itself on equipping professionals with the skillsets needed to lead with purpose and significant impact in their respective fields.