Thirteen businesses hoping to open, grow and scale their operations on the Middle Peninsula recently completed the 2024 “Introduction to Entrepreneurship,” a free business training course presented by the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission.

Program classes were led by Joe Syslo of Mathews, an adjunct faculty member of the Rappahannock Community College with over two decades of experience teaching courses in Business Management, Leadership, Business Communications, and Business Law.

Weekly sessions took place for two months after their July start, covering topics such as business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, and legal considerations. The course also provided valuable networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with like-minded individuals and potential investors.

The program was carried out in collaboration with local economic development organizations and funded in whole by a $24,000 grant from the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission, a release said.

Lewie Lawrence, executive director of MPPDC, said, “Equipping innovators with the right skills and resources empowers them to turn ideas into successful ventures, driving economic growth, creating jobs and fostering sustainable development in our region.”