Camden, NJ- On the evening of Wednesday, April 17th, 2024, LAEDA welcomed the students of the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) Session 99. The students were selected from an application pool of 108 candidates based on their experience, desire, and ability to move their businesses forward in a meaningful manner.
Ray Lamboy, President and CEO of LAEDA, gave the opening remarks by presenting LAEDA’s principles and missions, staff and student introductions, and program goals and requirements for the next 9 weeks.
LAEDA is a not for profit economic development organization dedicated to assisting emerging entrepreneurs and small business owners to start and grow their businesses in Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, Atlantic and Cumberland counties in New Jersey. This is achieved through a combination of business training and counseling through its two centers, the LAEDA Business Services Center (LBSC) and the Women’s Business Center (WBC). The 9 Week EDTP is the cornerstone and flagship training program, taking the students on an intense 75 hour course going over all aspects of owning and operating a small business, from marketing to insurance to legal, culminating in a one-page business plan that clearly explains the narratives and finances of the business. You must go through an application and interview process to qualify for this free program.
No matter where you are in the evolution of the entrepreneur, whether it is the side hustle business, self-employed business or the business owner one can call LAEDA and get assistance. This program is designed to move you from where you are to where you want to be, because standing still is not an option. In addition to the business knowledge that is delivered in the 9 weeks, the program also provides a space for motivating and helping one another, keeping each other accountable, and forming a life-long relationship with each other that transcends simply “business”.
LAEDA staff and industry experts present best practices that are vital to keeping the business running smoothly and on the correct trajectory.
The ten students of Session 99 hail from a myriad of backgrounds and experiences, and operate in many different industries, including beauty, environmental beautification, and retail. Everyone is able to contribute to the experience in a unique but meaningful manner, as they will see in the next nine weeks.
During staff introductions, Special Programs Coordinator Mimi Feliz had a special treat for the students in the form of free money… through the Individual Development Account (IDA) match savings program. Formed through a partnership with United Way, the IDA program requires qualified candidates to save $1500 to use on their businesses, and United Way will match double that amount. A wave of excitement washed over the room as the Session 99 students spoke over each other to get Mimi’s contact information. Please email us at info@laeda.com to find out more about the IDA program and start saving up for free money today!
The 9 Week Program offered through LAEDA’s two centers offer 3 sessions per year – spring, fall, and winter. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com. While this program has an application and interview process, all of LAEDA’s other programs are open to the public. Find other trainings and seminars at tinyurl.com/laeda-trainings. From long-term to short-term to one night, from English to Spanish, from virtual to in-person, you are sure to find the right fit for you here at LAEDA!