Camden, NJ – On Wednesday evening, September 10, 2025, LAEDA proudly welcomed a new cohort of dynamic entrepreneurs into Session 103 of the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP).
This group of 15 business owners, selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants, was chosen for their drive, potential, and commitment to growth. Over the next nine weeks, they will engage in intensive training designed to provide the tools, knowledge, and confidence to launch and expand their ventures.
Inspiring the Journey Ahead
The evening began with a warm welcome from Jiao Xu, Program Manager of LAEDA’s Business Service Center, who offered words of encouragement and inspiration to the new cohort.
“Welcome, everyone. By being here tonight, you have already made the decision to invest in yourselves and take an important step toward becoming business owners. Over the next nine weeks, let’s sharpen our skills, explore new ideas, and support one another. We are a community—one that holds each other accountable and helps each other recharge.”
Empowering Guidance from LAEDA Leadership
Ray Lamboy, President & CEO of LAEDA, shared an inspiring vision of economic opportunity for businesses in Camden, illustrating how ideas can grow from curiosity into thriving enterprises. He encouraged the cohort to reflect on their purpose and the energy driving them forward:
“Why are you here? What is the gas in your tank?”
He reminded participants that building a successful business requires creating strong systems, especially during moments when motivation is low:
“When you do not want to do it the most, but you do, that is when you build character.”
Mr. Lamboy also highlighted the importance of intentional action and measurement:
“Think about what you did to get your clients through the door. If you do not measure your tactics, you do not know which ones work — this is a huge part of your marketing strategy.”
His message became both a roadmap and a source of inspiration, emphasizing that every small, measured step contributes to building a resilient business in Camden’s vibrant economic landscape.
With these insights, Mr. Lamboy’s message became both a roadmap and an inspiration, Session 103 is officially underway!
Support and Encouragement from the LAEDA Team
Throughout the evening, the LAEDA team shared friendly advice and encouragement, creating a warm and motivating atmosphere. LAEDA reminded participants that this program is a special opportunity to make their business dreams a reality—and that they would not be doing it alone.
Some of LAEDA’s key messages included:
“We see everyone growing as individuals…come to class and learn the real deal from industry experts. We will connect you and make things happen.”
“We do a lot of one-on-one business counseling. Approach this nine-week program as something you get to do, not something you have to do.”
“See your work come to life, and know that we will support you in staying on track with your business and goals.”
“Take full advantage of the information, resources, and professionals around you—you will need them one day in your business journey. Support each other too, because having a network and community is crucial for success.”
“Here at LAEDA, we maintain ongoing relationships with our clients, working with them in ways that match their goals and needs. We help place participants in programs and services that best fit their business journey while respecting their time and providing a strong foundation for growth.”
“You are powerful with all the knowledge you will gain. We will challenge your assumptions, and even after this program, we will keep helping you move your business plan forward.”
“Why Are You Here?” Meet the Students of EDTP Session 103
As the evening unfolded, each student took a moment to introduce themselves, share their business, and tell a little about their journey. Their stories were inspiring and personal, all reflecting a shared goal: to grow, learn, and take charge of their future. Others wanted to fill in missing pieces and learn the systems that drive success. A few were seeking peace of mind and clarity, and others were eager to expand, connect, and discover how to move their business forward in the right direction.
No matter their background or stage in business, every participant came ready to grow—and that is exactly what this program is all about.
With the cohort energized and ready to dive in, it was clear that great things are ahead. To see the impact of this journey, let us hear directly from some of the students from the previous session, EDTP Spring 2025 Session 102:
From Petals to Profits: Jennifer Ortiz’s Journey with LAEDA
Jennifer Ortiz, founder of Creations by Jenn, reconstructed her business in 2019 and is an alumni of LAEDA’s Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (Session 102, Spring). She started Creations by Jenn as a floral design and wedding officiant studio in Camden, NJ. With over 30 years of floral design experience and a decade as an ordained minister, Jennifer doesn’t just sell flowers—she helps people honor life’s most meaningful moments with authenticity and beauty. Whether it’s a wedding, a memorial, a workshop, or simply brightening an ordinary Tuesday, she creates from the heart.
Through LAEDA, Jennifer learned invaluable lessons:
“The value of a dollar & networking is key.”
“Knowledge of numbers is power.”
“The different arms of business: Law/Accounting & Financing/Real Estate/Human Resources/Insurance/Planning/Marketing/Leveraging the census & even Personal Development.”
She also gained equally important support: “A family of business besties that are holding me accountable and are rooting me on. Confidence in myself and my craft.”
Jennifer compares running a business to gardening: “Running a business feels like gardening in a storm some days. But you don’t give up on the garden — you adjust your grip, lean on your tools, and trust that growth is happening. You’re here because you believe in yourself. And now? LAEDA and the alumni believe in you too.”
Reflecting on her decade as a wedding officiant, she added:
“10th year this month as a Wedding Officiant in all 50 states. This program is a chance to have professionals come in and take those worries out. Have no doubt—network, do your homework, and have a business plan. LAEDA sees the commitment you have to your clients—it’s real. You never know who you will meet or impress if you don’t show up prepared.”
Contact: Jennifer Ortiz
Creations by Jenn LLC
856-780-2022
info@thecreationsbyjenn.com
thecreationsbyjenn.com
From Kitchen Dreams to Business Success: Chef Dan Ninerell’s Entrepreneurial Journey
Dan Ninerell, Owner and Executive Chef of Modern Classical Chefs and alumni of LAEDA’s Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (Session 102, Spring), is celebrating three years in business and credits the program for playing a pivotal role in his success.
“Invest time in your business. I just celebrated three years this July, and I can say with certainty that having a solid business plan and real, actionable goals is essential. The concepts we learned in LAEDA’s nine-week business training program are truly transformational. Enrolling in this program was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my business,” Ninerell said.
He also emphasized the ongoing support LAEDA provides beyond the classroom. “There is ongoing counseling and support while in class and after graduation. This is HUGE and you must take advantage of it to ensure you and your business’ success in your entrepreneurial journey.”
Ninerell pointed to LAEDA’s newest initiative, Business Capital Solutions, which offers qualifying applicants access to microloans to establish and improve credit standing.
His advice to entrepreneurs is both practical and inspiring: “Stay with it, keep an open mind, and take good notes. By the end of your cohort, you’ll gain valuable concepts and ideas to grow your business. It’s been a wonderful experience, and I’m grateful to be part of it. NEVER EVER QUIT!!!”
Contact: Dan Ninerell
Owner/Executive Chef, Modern Classical Chefs
856-332-5769
dan@modernclassicalchefs.com
www.modernclassicalchefs.com
Looking Ahead: Growth and Impact
As Session 103 begins, these entrepreneurs are stepping into an exciting new chapter—empowered with practical knowledge, surrounded by a supportive community, and guided by LAEDA every step of the way. We look forward to celebrating their progress, cheering on their successes, and continuing to support them as they grow thriving businesses and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
The Nine Week Program offered through LAEDA’s two centers offers 3 sessions per year – Spring, Fall, and Winter. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com.
Turning Vision into Reality
What’s on your vision board? Let us help turn it into success. LAEDA is committed to supporting individuals like you as you begin your journey into business ownership. We offer a variety of resources, including business training programs, one-on-one counseling, and networking opportunities—all designed to give entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed.
Your journey starts here—explore our wide range of training programs and take the next step toward building the business you’ve envisioned: training programs.