27 Graduates from Atlantic City/AACCNJ Small Business Academy

 

Photo of AACCNJ's John Harmon courtesy of the City of Atlantic City.

AC JosepH Media

ATLANTIC CITY -- On Tuesday, May 28, the Atlantic City Small Business Academy, in partnership with the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey graduated 27 participants from its transformative eight-week entrepreneurial development program.

Hosted for the third time by the Office of the Honorable Mayor Marty Small, Sr., this initiative continues to strengthen Atlantic City’s small business ecosystem and empower local residents with the tools to launch and sustain successful ventures.

The program featured weekly workshops led by seasoned industry experts covering core topics such as ABCs of starting a small business, writing a business plan, accessing capital, bookkeeping and taxes, goal setting, obtaining business certifications, building strong networks, and delivering excellent customer service.

These sessions provided participants with practical insights and mentorship to begin their entrepreneurial journey with confidence.

 The culminating event featured a Business Elevator Pitch Competition, where participants showcased their business concepts before a panel of judges. Prizes were awarded to the top five contestants:

*1st Place (Grand Prize): The Soul Shack, Tabriah Taylor – awarded a $15,000 Inlet CDC Grant

**2nd Place: All Hands-on Deck, Lonniyell Sykes – awarded a one-year complimentary AACCNJ membership

*3rd Place: Paidr’s Port A Pottys,  Paidra Lucas – awarded a one-year complimentary AACCNJ membership

*4th Place: Empower You, Lorraine Robinson – awarded free website development

*5th Place: Fitness Foodies, Ruchelle Whitfield – awarded enrollment in a Business Incubator program 

 

Photo of Mayor Marty Small speaking at the Small Business Academy courtesy of City of Atlantic City.

"There’s nothing the Small administration won’t do to enrich the lives of the residents of the Great City of Atlantic City and support their dreams," Small said in a statement.

"The Small Business Academy is one of our proudest accomplishments, and we will continue to equip our residents with resources and opportunities to create lasting change, shaping the future of our local economy."

John E. Harmon, Sr., founder, president and CEO of the AACCNJ, said the academy will paid off in major dividends in the future.

"Through this program, we are investing in the dreams of entrepreneurs who will, in turn, invest in their communities," Harmon said. "The AACCNJ is honored to help guide their journey toward sustainability and economic empowerment."

The continued success of the Atlantic City Small Business Academy is a testament to the power of collaboration between government, community, and business leaders. Congratulations to all 27 participants for their commitment and best wishes for a prosperous future.

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