Jackson County Business Academy

According to the Small Business Administration, 80% of all new small businesses close during the first two years of operation. There are several reasons for this and one is the lack of understanding of what it takes to successfully operate a new business.

Using the business education staff of Ivy Tech and the MBA program of IUPUColumbus, the Jackson County Business Academy (JCBA) will provide a focused and concentrated eleven week program of business education for two levels of business education. The first level will be the Basic class for businesses less than two years old.

The second level will be the Advanced class for businesses more than three years old.

Advanced level classes will also accept businesses that show exceptional entrepreneurial opportunities.

Classes will be held one night per week in locations germane to the topic of that week's class or at the Jackson County Education Center.

Successful business mentors will be assigned to the students and will work at least once a month with each student for one year following completion of the program.
An Internet Based Business Development class will be offered to other nominated or selected individuals.

Nominations for selection by the JCBA Advisory Group will be accepted from the lending institutions and accounting firms of Jackson County. Individuals may also apply.

The fee for enrollment will be $1,000 for the Basic class and $1,500 for the Advanced class. The enrollment fee must be paid: 25% before the first class, 25% before the sixth class, and the balance upon completion of the class.

Internet Based Business Development class tuition will be $100 per class session, and the number of sessions based upon the need of the student. Internet Based Business Development fees are due at the completion of each class session.

Classes in the Basic and Advanced levels will begin in May.

Business Academy Application

For further information, contact the Greater Seymour Chamber of Commerce at 812-522-3681