Almetra J. Franklin, chief executive officer of St. Mary Community Action Agency along with the Delta Regional Authority and the Douglas C. Greene Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship have been awarded an Operation Jumpstart grant.

Franklin said this project will increase the capacity for communities to train, support, and mentor aspiring entrepreneurs.

One of the main objectives is to increase the number of new business ventures created each year throughout the region

Another phase of the project is to provide technical support and assistance.

The training courses are being held through August. The space is limited, so the sooner you inquire about the classes, the sooner you will be able to enroll.

“We are excited to be able to provide training that will prepare future business owners to be able to stand on their own foundation,” Franklin said.

The classes offered are Innovation Development and Research; Entrepreneurship Education, Training and Mentorship; and Business Incubation and Development Services.

For more information please call Karen Artis at 828-5703.