Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship. It's a dream many have and for varying reasons. But getting a small business started can sometimes be a challenge. That's where the Southeast Missouri State University Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship comes in.

Last week it was announced the center would expand its highly successful Operation Jump-Start program to four new sites this year through $153,903 in grant funding, care of the Delta Regional Authority.

Operation Jump-Start is a nationally recognized 12-week program that helps participants in key areas so they can start or expand their small business. Since 2006, more than 200 small businesses have been created by program participants in the 25-county service area resulting in 350 jobs. And according to Dr. James Stapleton, executive director of the center and professor at the university, participants in the program that have launched a small business are highly successful in maintaining their business. A survey by the center shows that 93 percent of the businesses started since 2006 are still in operation.

Southeast is also providing an opportunity for those who complete the program to be awarded a startup grant. In fact, over the four upcoming courses, $25,000 in startup grants will be awarded by an outside panel.

Congratulations to Southeast on their tremendously successful program. During this time of economic uncertainty, it's exciting to see individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit have the opportunity to learn how to move their ideas forward.

For more information about the center and Operation Jump-Start, go to www.semo.edu/cie.