Four local business owners and entrepreneurs graduated earlier this month from the nine-week Small Business Jump Start program held each fall and spring.
SBJS focuses on skills like goal setting, business development, financial literacy, marketing, and sales techniques for small businesses. Graduates also receive $2,500 in resources, including loans and discounts.
“I was not only looking to learn more about the business aspect of running my business, but I was also hoping to network,” said Sonya Longstreth, an SBJS participant and owner of Staging by Sonya, a Meadville-based staging and design business. Longstreth specializes in home staging, space redesign, event decorating and client organization.
“This program is in its 20th year,” SBJS instructor Gary Svetz said. “Many people have benefited, and the community recognizes these businesses.” Around 900 people have participated in the SBJS program, with an 85 percent business success rate, according to Svetz.
Jessica Lippert, an SBJS participant, and her husband are planning an Airbnb and camping site on their Tionesta property. “Learning about LLCs, loans, insurance, marketing, cash flow, and all the things needed to even begin. It also just helped build confidence in what I wanted,” Lippert said, reflecting on what she gained from the class.
Other graduates include Chris Ellis, a military veteran planning to start a car wash business and another participant looking to open a business at the mall.
Classes are held at the Meadville-Western Crawford County Chamber of Commerce, 908 Diamond Park, and are free for veterans.
• More information: Contact the Chamber by phone at (814) 337-8030 or via email [email protected].
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