Represented in this year’s graduating class were members of sessions 64, 65 and 66.  The graduate businesses include: web developers, child care centers, restaurants, gift basket makers, home improvement companies and much more.  “We are so proud of these graduates,” said Kyle Santoferraro, the EDTP Coordinator, “they have invested a lot of time and energy into completing the program and are now ready to take the next step.”  “For 23 years LAEDA has been hosting this event and every year I am humbled by the character and determination of these individuals,” remarked Raymond L. Lamboy, President & CEO of LAEDA.

New to this year’s graduation is the Alumni Family Reunion.  “LAEDA has graduated 969 individuals from EDTP, and of those 969, 461 businesses were started, 258 are still in business today,” Lamboy said.  In his remarks to a gathered crowd of 184 friends and family, Mr. Lamboy conveyed his commitment to the alumni, by forming an Alumni Group that will form to provide advice to LAEDA on EDTP curriculum, organize Alumni specific workshops and host Alumni networking events.  In addition, he offered a seat on LAEDA’s Board of Directors to a leader selected from amongst alumni.  “LAEDA and our EDTP graduates can learn so much from our Alumni,” said Lamboy, “they are out there every day working hard to make a living for themselves and their families.”

To punctuate the importance of Alumni to LAEDA, Mr. Lamboy presented the LAEDA lapel pin.  “The LAEDA pin is an exclusive symbol of excellence and commitment to our mission and, more importantly, represents a shared experience that only the Alumni, Staff, Instructors, Board, Funders and exceptional Friends of LAEDA have.”  The pin was presented to the 45 graduates and 35 alumni present as well as the LAEDA staff and Board of Directors. 

The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program is a comprehensive nine week, 72+ hours training designed to assist low to moderate income individuals in the development of a business idea, the creation of a business plan and the startup of a small business.  The course covers all manner of business develop and management including; Marketing, Accounting, Business Law, Business Planning, Personnel and Management, Leadership & Personnel Development, etc..  To date LAEDA has graduated 969 individuals from the course, started 461 businesses of which 258 are still in business today!

For more information on LAEDA or EDTP, please call 856-338-1177.