NEED:

For the past few years Tuskegee University have been approached with the need to start programs that will help entrepreneurs in West Alabama to develop business technicalities and skills that will help them in management and expansion  of their businesses. There was need of entrepreneur programs in the area especially in Greene and Sumter Counties which did not have any of such programs that focused in helping the limited resource businesses.

HOW RBEDP HELPED:

Tuskegee University RBEDP embarked on offering training and technical assistance every Thursday in one of counties. Twelve to Fourteen weeks of classes were offered followed by one-on-one technical assistance with the participants. RBEDP also provided assistance in networking the participants to lawyers, insurance agents, community leaders, customers and other personnel that were essentially in helping start or expand their businesses

RESULTS:

Many businesses have been equipped with information on how to start and expand business; starting from business legal structure; financial management, and marketing. The training also helped entrepreneurs in allocating and accessing financial resources such as USDA grants that are available for them. These have in turn brought growth to businesses in these counties.