The U.S. Small Business Administration is making grants totaling $1.5 million available to organizations that help executives of small companies develop their entrepreneurial skills.

The SBA expects to award six to 10 grants in the range of $150,000 to $250,000 to organizations that serve businesses participating in the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program, according to a release. The money is intended to help organizations such as universities, trade and professional associations and for-profit businesses to promote the development and success of small businesses in Maine.

Specifically, SBA is seeking innovative projects to provide specialized training, executive education and tools to promote business development of eligible 8(a) firms.

Applications will be accepted through July 20 and awards will be issued by Sept. 30.

“The services we are now looking for will increase opportunities for potentially high-growth small businesses, especially small firms that do business with the government,” said John Shoraka, associate administrator for Government Contracting and Business Development, in the release.

Although not limited to these topics, the training should focus on teaming with other businesses; mastering the process of federal contracting; reversing business declines; and securing loan financing or private equity funding.

For more information, go to the www.grants.gov website, and search keyword GCBD-7J-2014-01.