The first night of the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program always begins with an orientation to welcome the students and give an overview of the program. LAEDA Business Service Center Program Manager, Kat Harrison, began the orientation by assuring everyone that they would still get the same experience as the participants who came before them. "We have worked hard to make sure this online version of EDTP will be no different than the in-person experience," she stated.

Next, Ms. Harrison introduced President & CEO Raymond Lamboy. Mr. Lamboy informed the participants that this session will be the first of its kind for LAEDA. "The LAEDA team has been able to adapt to these changing times in order to continue LAEDA's long-standing history of offering its nine-week program. We have been able to reach more people by offering this program format and even have a participant from Georgia," he stated.

Then, in keeping with the tradition of EDTP orientation, Mr. Lamboy stressed the importance of knowing what will keep business owners going when their entrepreneurial journey gets difficult. He asked all EDTP participants the following two questions: (1) Why are you here? and (2) What's the gas in your tank? Below, are some of the responses:

• "I want to have a business that is worthwhile."
• "I want to learn the fundamentals of starting and creating business systems and learn the steps to get to the next level."
• "I believe LAEDA will give us tools, encouragement, and everything we need to be successful."
• "I am here for guidance on the path of a business owner."
• "I want to sharpen my vision as well as connect to people through this network."
• "I want to build a great foundation to provide jobs for others."
• "I want to learn a lot about how to manage a business."

Later, LAEDA staff introduced themselves and offered well wishes to session 87 participants. Dina Maldonado, Assistant Office Manager stated, “Keep going to achieve your goals, everything is possible when you put effort and dedication so take advantage of LAEDA and its resources.”  

The night concluded with everyone learning how to navigate the online tools that will be used to attend class, review presentations, complete assignments, and correspond with students and instructors. 

LAEDA is available remotely through email, phone, and/ or video conferencing. Please call us at (856) 338-1177 or visit our website at www.laeda.com to learn more about our programs, services, and small business resources.