The latest cohort of the City of Atlantic City’s Small Business Academy graduated 27 Atlantic City residents this week who completed the free eight-week program, which teaches participants how to start and grow a successful business. Workshops led by industry experts educated participants on topics such as the ABC’s of starting a small business, writing a business plan, setting goals, marketing and more. At the end of the cohort, participants pitched their business ideas to local professionals who offered feedback before scoring the pitches. The winner of the pitch competition with the highest score was Tabriah Taylor, who wants to grow her catering business. Her prize was a $15,000 grant from Atlantic City’s Inlet Community Development Corporation (CDC) to help her achieve her dream. Founded in 2021 by City of Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, Sr., the Small Business Academy is a partnership between the City of Atlantic City and the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ).
“The Small administration has always believed that real progress begins with empowering our residents,” said Mayor Small. “This academy is more than just a training program, it is a launchpad for dreams, a catalyst for community growth, and a testament to what’s possible when we invest in our people. These 27 individuals have taken a bold step toward entrepreneurship and, in doing so, they are helping to build a local economy that reflects the ambition and potential of the Great City of Atlantic City.”
“This initiative reflects a shared commitment to economic empowerment through entrepreneurship – an essential pillar for building self-sufficiency and long term prosperity within our communities,” said AACCNJ Founder, President and CEO John Harmon, Sr. “Each graduate represents not only the promise of individual growth but also the potential for job creation, local investment, and sustained economic vitality in Atlantic City.”
This latest Small Business Academy cohort was coordinated by Bruce Weekes (who was also instrumental in launching the Small Business Academy) and Pam Fields of the City of Atlantic City Economic Development Department of Planning & Development, and AACCNJ Vice President of Community Development & External Affairs Officer Carmen Gates. Earlier in the month, the Economic Development Department introduced the “Keep it Local” campaign to boost Atlantic City’s economy by encouraging visitors and guests to patronize local small businesses. Mayor Small declared May as “Small Business Month” in Atlantic City.
