Raymond L. Lamboy, President & CEO congratulated the class for completing the program and for all the hard work and dedication each entrepreneur put in. He opened the night by stating, "Every night do something to advance your business beacuse you do not want to lose this momentum. We encourage you to take advantage of LAEDA’s information, resources, professionals and staff members to build a business. We also suggest you continue to learn and grow by expanding your bsuiness knowledge through reading essential books. Some books these essential include: (1) Traction (2) Rich Dad Poor Dad (3) Know Your Value (4) E-Myth (5) How to Win Friends & Influence People and (6) Be Your Customer’s Hero."

While participants spoke about what they learned as well as memorable moments, there was a theme amongst them all with regards to biggest challenges. Many particpants spoke about adjusting to the virtual experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, all beleived they had a support system including their peers, instructors, LAEDA staff members, and counselors that help them get through it. To this Ray Lamboy emphasized, "LAEDA’s doors and phones are always open for you since we since we now consider you family. Our alumni keep in touch with us even after their businesses have been open for a number of years... Some are even ready to retire and pass on the business that they started with us over 30 years ago."

Next, other LAEDA staff members offered words of encouragement for session 87 participants. Kathryn "Kat" Harrison, Program Manager - LAEDA Business Services Center expresses, “This is just the beginning of your journey and with our counseling sessions we learn where you are, what your interests are, what you are looking for and which areas you may the most guidance in.”

“Everyone that goes through our classes becomes our family so always knock on our door because we are always here for you so have that will power and always remember what your why is and let that move you forward,”
Annabel Soto, Office Administrator.

Dina Maldonado, Assistant Office Administrator, “Brave people finish the course and keep moving forward and always remember LAEDA is here to help you.”

Then the class was able to hear from Crystal Lewis and Barbara Hall- Bryant of I Say Yes Salon and alumni of EDTP. “Utilize LAEDA and do not give up. Build partnerships with different businesses and get out there and network once the COVID-19 is lifted. Be transparent and authentic with your clients because that’s what they want. What people say and think about you when you are not in that room or at that table. Make sure when you talk to people about your business that people are clear what you do and what your business does. People are really looking at your brand, keep everything clean and clear,” Crystal and Barbara shared.

At the end of the night, everyone listened to celebration radio as the class of 87 completed program evaluations to offer feedback regarding the entire experience.

LAEDA offers seminars and short-term course in various counties of South Jersey throughout the year. A long term course is also offered three times per year where entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and business counseling. The program is free, but you must qualify.

LAEDA welcomes you to join our community of successful entrepreneurs. Visit our website at www.laeda.com or call (856) 338-1177 to learn more. Let us help you through each milestone and each step of your entrepreneurial journey.