LAPLACE — Local business owners from across the River Parishes are being given a chance to learn how to best maximize their business output later this month at the Small and Emerging Business seminar, hosted by the River Region Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber, along with the local Small Business Development Center and Louisiana Economic Development, are joining together to provide free training and certification to local businesses.

The Small and Emerging Business seminar will provide a mix of business administration and technical assistance aimed at improving the effectiveness and profitability of local business.

Included in the seminar will be developmental assistance, entrepreneurial training, computer skills, business planning and other areas of specialized business needs.

“(The seminar) is a program that provides tools needed to grow and sustain a small business in Louisiana,” Chassity McComack, executive director at River Region Chamber of Commerce, said.

“The program is open to all Louisiana small businesses that meet eligibility requirements for both the business and the owner.”

Through the program, local business owners will also learn about how they may be eligible to participate in state programs meant to increase their business and the number of people they employ.

“This particular offering is looking for projects that will increase full-time jobs, increase sales and help businesses access capital,” McComack said. “This program is a matching funds program. While it may have some limitations, there (are) options that small businesses need to be informed about in the event they can benefit from it.”

McComack said she is looking forward to the seminar and invites all interested business owners and those interested in opening a business in the River Parishes and beyond to come out to the event.

“We’re excited to be able to truly serve as the hub for business resources for the River Region,” McComack said.

“We welcome any business interested in learning more about this program, as well as more about their local Chamber, to attend and get geared up for forward progress.”

The seminar will be held on from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 30 at the Chamber Resource Center, located at 394 Belle Terre Blvd. in LaPlace.

For more information call 985-359-9777.