This component of the Family Self Sufficiency Program assists families with meeting their overall income generation plan. Clients with special skills and the motivation to start a small business are enrolled in the Micro-Enterprise Training Program; which provides clients the knowledge they need to own and operate a business successfully. During the training clients develop a business, marketing, and financial plan for their business. These plans are presented to the agency Micro-Enterprise Program Review Committee.

When the business's plan is approved, the client is eligible for a small business development loan of up to $3,000, administered by Sunshine State Credit Union, Capital Area Community Action Agency's banking partner. Eligibility Workers (case managers) monitor the progress of the new business owners for up to one year after the business start-up and formal introduction to the community at the Family Self-Sufficiency Recognition Luncheons.

 

CACAA provides the first year's membership for each new business in the local Chamber of Commerce as well as the first batch of stationary, business cards, and one advertisement in the local paper.

 

 

 

 

 

The Micro-Enterprise Program has assisted a total of nine small business start-ups over the last four years. Seven of these businesses continue to be successful, contributing income to their households while creating jobs and making a positive impact on the local economy.