UCEDC has a solid reputation for providing business training and financing for businesses of all sizes, and the EDA has a long history of providing access to the financing necessary to power the growth of New Jersey businesses. Through this partnership, these two organizations offer a number of services to make sustainable growth possible for entrepreneurs and business owners throughout the state.  Most services are available in English and Spanish.

To find a schedule of events, click here.

Self Assessment Tool
This free tool helps evaluate your readiness for entrepreneurship, assess the feasibility of your business idea and knowledge of business finances, identify strengths and weaknesses, and develop an action plan to prepare for business growth.  Click here to access the Self Assesment Tool.

Business Basics Workshops
UCEDC provides a series of four workshops that develop financial and business literacy for business owners at different stages of maturation. From the basics of starting and running a business to measuring goals and preparing your business for financing, these two-hour workshops are designed to fit your schedule.

Entrepreneurial Training Initiative
During this comprehensive six-session program, entrepreneurs create a business plan and develop an understanding of all aspects of starting or expanding a business. Program participants are invited to “Open Door Day for Entrepreneurs” at the EDA. This is an opportunity to present their business plans to a panel of experts in various disciplines for immediate feedback and be introduced to lenders, when appropriate. The program will be offered several times a year throughout the state.

Business Mentoring
All UCEDC clients are entitled to one-on-one business counseling customized to meet the specific needs of your business. Business mentors can provide valuable services, including hands-on assistance with:

• Bookkeeping
• Marketing
• Business planning
• Operations and sales
• Advocacy
• Access to statewide resources
   

International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Training 9001
This unique program, underwritten by a grant from the New Jersey Department of Labor, is a year-long quality management systems training program designed to make businesses more competitive globally. ISO 9001 consists of classroom instruction and on-site consultation that ultimately leads to ISO 9001 registration.

Other Services
The EDA and UCEDC both offer a variety of other services to business owners, including opportunities for financing.  In addition, UCEDC offers assistance obtaining government contracts, access to economic and demographic data, and other valuable services for small businesses.

To learn more about UCEDC, click here.