NewsFlash: Tips for Entrepreneurs, 0% Working Capital Loans, Articles to Help Your Small Business and More!

Small Business Newsletter

A Message From Our President

While the economy continues to fluctuate, worker shortages remain, and consumer trends shift, we know some small business owners are concerned about a possible recession, while others are trying to keep up with growth.

As always, no matter what shape your small business is in, UCEDC continues to offer help. Whether it's in the form of our FREE training workshops, like Business Planning in Times of Economic Change, our 0% interest working capital loan program, or getting started with government contracting, whatever support you need, UCEDC can help!

We are happy to share that as our programs and initiatives continue to grow, so does our organization. To meet the demand for our services, we have hired several new employees and are in the process of adding more to increase our capacity to serve the small business community. We encourage you to get to know our latest new hires via the links at the bottom of this page.

Stay safe and healthy!

Adam

Joshua Suggs, Owner of Delta's in New Brunswick

Shares His Entrepreneurial Advice

Joshua Suggs Owner of Delta's Soul Food Advice for Entrepreneurs

We caught up with Joshua Suggs, owner of Delta's in New Brunswick when we were interviewing him for the 2021 Annual Highlights. At the time, we asked him what advice he could offer to entrepreneurs who were just starting out, his answers were captured in the video above.

Mr. Suggs was introduced to UCEDC when he received an email regarding the Crisis Relief Loan Program, which offers small business owners up to $15,000 of working capital at 0% interest. It made sense for him to take advantage of the program, and it seemed like a good fit. Suggs says the loan was used to retain his employees and keep the business going throughout the pandemic. He says that Delta's numbers are now better than ever despite rising costs and shifts in employee payroll dynamics, and sales have never been this high.

Deadline to Apply for UCEDC's Entrepreneurship as a Second Chance Program is September 16th

UCEDC is currently accepting applications for its fourth round of Entrepreneurship as a Second Chance (ESC).

ESC offers formerly incarcerated or court-involved individuals the opportunity to explore re-entry into society through business ownership. In addition to intensive entrepreneurial training, two years of one-on-one mentoring, and business plan development, ESC provides participants with the necessary tools for success.

Entrepreneurship as a Second Chance Overview Final

UCEDC Director of training Joe Lamberti,

and participant Ron Kinston,

discuss the ESC program

Click here to learn more or apply now!

Funds Are Running Out! Take Advantage of UCEDC's

0% Crisis Relief Loan Program While It Lasts!

The Crisis Relief Loan Program is designed to provide broad access to much-needed working capital. Small business owners can borrow up to $15,000 at 0% for up to five years with no collateral requirements. The program features a quick turnaround (after completing the application requirements), no pre-payment penalties, and no processing or application fees.

For more information on the Crisis Relief Loan program and access the prequalification application click here.

Meet UCEDC's Latest Instagram Winner,

Shakira Drones, Owner of Ikiralot Crafts

When we reached out to Shakira Drones of Ikiralot Krafts to let her know she'd won our latest Instagram contest, she was so excited that she decided to come to our offices to pick up her prize and meet our team. We are so glad she did!

Shakira works as a Certified School Nurse by day and started her small business while working full-time. She is a bright entrepreneur who radiates positivity and is passionate about her many endeavors, which include writing a book and running Community Soap Making Classes through Ikiralot Krafts.

We are thrilled that she has found UCEDC's workshops educational and we are taking her feedback on the current scheduling of our virtual incubator program into account as we plan for the future of the program.

To check out Shakira's business, visit https://ikiralotcrafts.com/ or follow her on Instagram @ikiralot