2010 Entrepreneurship Program a huge success again!

Through the delivery of several initiatives, the Economic Development Department of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) continually supports and fosters the growth of private business within its Territory. As a supporting element, MCA with the financial assistance and support of the Akwesasne Area Management Board (AAMB) collaboratively hosted a 12 week entrepreneurial training program for existing and aspiring entrepreneurs. The program was held at the Akwesasne Economic Development Agency (AEDA) from January 4* to March 29th 2010. Crane Aboriginal Management Services (CAMS] was pleased to once again deliver the program.

MCA, AAMB and Lead Instructor Jeffrey L Jacobs would like to formally congratulate the 14 successful gradates of the 2010 Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program who were: Chelsea Oakes, Karakonkie Lazore, Tara Lee Tarbell, Shannon Oakes, Shannon Hall, Kawisohkwas Sharrow, Chris Thomas, Bobbie Joe White, Cecilia Francis, Corrine Johnson, Robert White, Twyla Skye-Jacobs, Aaron Swamp, and James David.

This program, which over the last 9 years has been co-developed and customized by CAMS and MCA together, is designed to prepare potential and existing entrepreneurs for their entry or expansion into and within the competitive mainstream and Aboriginal business matrix. Participants of this program learn the importance of business development and expansion, business planning and its role in business today. Main topics covered include: small business management; industry and market research and assessment; marketing; operations; and developing financial projections.

With clear goals and criteria to be met, graduates exceeded all set objectives of this program. Specifically, all entrepreneurs formally developed their business ideas through the preparation of a comprehensive start up or expansion business plan.

Entrepreneurs brought forward many great start up and expansion ideas in a wide array of industries that targeted various markets. In total there were 14 separate businesses being developed simultaneously. Of these, 10 were new business start ups and 4 were formalization projects. All companies are or plan to locate within the Territory of the Mohawks of Akwesasne.

It is anticipated that at least one-third of the graduates will seriously pursue their business endeavors in the very near future. As a direct result, the anticipated annual benefits to the community will be between $400,000 and $600,000.

MCA and SRMT would like Akwesasronon to know that they are planning to deliver other programs and training in the very near future. Please watch and listen for community postings and announcements of these events.