The Community Business Academy (CBA) is an intensive course in basic business management and planning, where entrepreneurs gain hands-on familiarity with the fundamental concepts, tools, and skills needed to plan and run a successful business. Classes are held in Jersey City and the City of Orange Township on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings. The Community Business Academy is designed specifically for the start-up entrepreneur with little or no business experience or someone in the process of growing a micro-business.

Program Length: 11 consecutive sessions, once a week.

Curriculum: Intensive training in fundamental small-business management and planning skills.

Training Approach and Topics: Adult participatory learning methodology (guided exercises, hands-on business simulations, field trips, and group discussion). Entrepreneurs learn critical skills such as record-keeping, cash-flow management, pricing, competitive analysis, market research, selling, negotiations, business ethics and contingency planning.

Instructors: Experienced instructors with prior experience owning and running small businesses.

Business Planning: The homework assigned in class is designed to help the entrepreneur gather the basic information required to compile a business plan.

Upon Completion: Entrepreneurs who complete the program attend a special graduation and networking event to celebrate their success and expand their social network. Those with full participation through attendance, homework, and executive summary completion are eligible to receive a business-related graduation award. Successful graduates can join an alumni network called Club CEO.

Fees: Tuition for the Community Business Academy is valued at $3,000 per student. However, tuition is waived thanks to our generous supporters and donors who believe in our mission. However, all accepted participants pay a small materials and registration fee for the entire course depending on income.

Microloans and Financing: Participants interested in pursuing financing need to schedule a one-on-one consultation to address personal credit issues, to refine or complete a business plan, or to outline a fund-raising strategy that includes identifying appropriate sources of potential funding. Non-Community Business Academy participants or graduates need to apply for our Business Acceleration Services program to receive loan preparation assistance.