Enrollment Begins for Business Classes

The Ventura County Entrepreneur Academy is holding open enrollment for small business owners who want to sharpen their skills and expand their operations.

With the help of a $486,500 grant from the California Employment Training Panel, the business academy is set to launch its fall series of classes beginning Sept. 24.

The Ventura-based program is free to business owners who have at least one but fewer than 10 full-time employees, said Georgie Davies with the county’s human resources department.

During the 100-hour course, business owners will benefit from a variety of training programs, including business planning, business management and growth through technology.

“Our theory is that as small business owners become more successful, they will expand and hire more people,” Davies said.

Now in its third year, the academy has graduated 437 business owners.

Within six months of completing the program, past graduates have reported an average gross revenue increase of 16%. And more than 80% of the graduates have experienced growth in their businesses, including increased sales and profits and adding more employees.

Enrollment is limited. To reserve a space or for more information, call 654-2562 or 662-6556.