Listen to this articleThe African American Chamber of Commerce New Jersey is introducing an eight-part program for new entrepreneurs and people considering owning their own business.
As part of the chamber’s Mobile Academy, the AACCNJ Entrepreneur Academy serves to equip participants with the tools to achieve those goals through a series of free classes led by experienced professionals at the Mill One building at 1 N. Johnston Ave. in Hamilton.
“We are excited to offer this opportunity to aspiring entrepreneurs in New Jersey,” John Harmon Sr., founder, president and CEO of AACCNJ, said in an Oct. 20 statement issued along with the announcement of the program. “The AACCNJ Entrepreneur Academy empowers individuals from all backgrounds to take the next step toward realizing their dreams of self-sufficiency and generational wealth creation. By providing this program at no cost, we aim to remove barriers and ensure that all interested individuals have the chance to participate.”
According to the chamber, topics covered in the AACCNJ Entrepreneur Academy will include:
- ABCs of Starting a Small Business
- Writing a Business Plan/QuickBooks
- Goal Setting
- Marketing Your Business
- 5 Cs of Credit/Access to Capital
- Accounting Do’s and Don’ts and Taxes
- Networking 101
- Excellent Customer Service
- How to Obtain MBE or WMBE Certifications
The Mobile Academy was launched by AACCNJ in 2022 to augment and supplement training for New Jersey’s underserved workforce and business communities. Its workshops, seminars and panel discussions are held at churches, community centers, schools, parks and other venues across the state, as well as virtually, according to the AACCNJ’s website.
Other programs offered through the Mobile Academy include: NJ Kids4 Coding, Small Business Academy, Career Fairs and Work-readiness Coaching, and more.
To be eligible, applicants are required to attend a 30-minute, virtual introductory meeting that will include details of the program. You can apply for the inaugural cohort of the academy here; for inquiries or assistance, email [email protected].