Whether you are an existing business owner or thinking of starting a new business, proper planning is the key to success. A detailed business plan assists owners and entrepreneurs to track their company's growth and development. Planning for your business also helps identify problems in advance. The Cumberland Empowerment Zone (CEZC) has experienced staff available to provide the information and training you need to operate a successful business.

Business Assistance Center

The CEZC operates its Business Assistance Center (BAC) at the One Stop Career Center in Vineland, New Jersey. The BAC currently contains computers complete with business software, along with an informative library of periodicals and research texts on various subjects such as business management, marketing and accounting. Entrepreneurs will find the BAC invaluable in researching and drafting a business plan. Existing business owners will likewise benefit from the extensive information available at the BAC. A conference room is also available for use. The BAC is open to the public at large and there is no cost associated with its use.

Business Assistance Center
One Stop Career Center
275 North Delsea Drive
Vineland, NJ 08360
Telephone: 856-696-5660, Ext. 203

Technical Assistance

Ongoing technical assistance is crucial to the development of any business. The CEZC has staff experienced in all aspects of business planning and development. We offer one-to-one technical assistance to any local business owner or entrepreneur who wishes to take advantage of this service. Technical assistance is offered via appointment at either our BAC or the CEZC office.

For more information or to make an appointment, call us at 856-459-1700 or 856-696-5660, ext. 203.

NxLevel Entrepreneurial Training

In a continuing effort to support small business and increase the number of jobs in Cumberland County, entrepreneurial training is provided by the CEZC to both new and existing businesses.

The CEZC uses the NxLevel curriculum for its entrepreneurial training program. Staff members are certified instructors of the program. NxLevel is considered the premier entrepreneurial training program in the nation. One significant advantage of the curriculum is that it caters to business owners and entrepreneurs at all levels of expertise, knowledge, and operation.

Entrepreneurial training classes are offered a minimum of two times per year. The training is generally eight weeks in length. The class meets once a week in the evening for three hours. The NxLevel course focuses upon essential skills for success, such as marketing, budget analysis, and sales forecasting. By attending class and completing assignments during the course, participants finish the program with a detailed business plan in hand. In addition, participants are informed about resources (both financial and technical) available to assist in their success.

To apply for enrollment in a NxLevel entrepreneurial training session, complete an application, indicating name, contact information, and the type of business you are interested in forming. There is a non-refundable $200.00 fee to participate in the NxLevel Entrepreneurial Training Course. Contact the CEZC to reserve a seat in the class and receive instructions on submitting your application and fee. Staff can be reached by telephone at 856-459-1700 or 856-696-5660, ext. 203.

NOTE: In order to receive a certificate of completion, participants must attend 80% of classes, complete all assignments, and submit a business plan for review and comment.

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