St. Mary CAA offers free start-up business program

The St. Mary Community Action Agency is offering a free start-up business program to budding entrepreneurs, who have at least one child under age 18, and whose income is below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

Andrew Jackson, one of the facilitators of the project, said eligible participants could include a single parent with a monthly income of less than $2,500, or even a family of 8, whose household monthly income is less than $6,200.

“We’re offering a training and development program that enhances personal and business development skills and creates owner-operated micro-enterprise businesses, with the goal of increasing income and wealth through self-employment,” he said.

“And the good news is that it won’t cost anyone a cent!”

The start-up program requires a 16-week commitment.

CAA Grant Writer Mary Brown said the agency is offering three training sessions as well: to develop personal skills, financial literacy and credit counseling, and entrepreneurial training where participants actually write a business plan.

“All three trainings must be completed in order to receive certification,” Brown said.

To enroll, participants must provide proof of identity, household income and proof that at least one minor child lives with you. Brown said a birth certificate as well as food stamp documents or doctor’s records as proof of the child’s residency are suitable. A letter signed by the applicant’s landlord verifying residence occupants, a pay stub, Medicaid letter and Social Security Insurance documentation are also needed.

Enroll at the St. Mary CAA at 1407 Barrow St. in Franklin. To reach Jackson or program facilitator Karen Artis at (337) 828-5703.