LABAS News:

Los Alamos Business Assistance Services and the local community are sponsoring grants to young entrepreneurs.

Each applicant is required to write a mini-business plan, which is due May 16. Download the application at www.losalamosbusiness.com.

A committee of business advisors and business community leaders interview, select and mentor the candidates throughout the summer. David Jolly of Metzger’s said that what he enjoyed about being a mentor was “being able to spend some time with some of them, working with them on the importance of the business side of their business – planning and record keeping and the like.”

At the end of the summer, the grantees are required to provide a final report and presentation on how their business did over the summer.

Since its inception, the program has helped more than 280 young entrepreneurs learn how to start and run their own business grant of up to $400. Past participants have learned valuable lessons that have helped them in their future endeavors.

“Something that I would tell another youth about running their own business is to be proud of yourself even if you fail, because you attempted something most people wouldn’t,” said Adan Casados, a 2012 grant recipient.

This program would not be possible without the contributions of time, money and energy from the local business community. LABAS is looking for business people to support Youth Business Grants. This program relies on the donations from local businesses and individuals. Any and all financial support to help fund these grants is greatly appreciated.

For more information regarding the program or to become a panelist or mentor, contact Katie Stavert at katie@losalamos.org or (505) 661-4805.