Mon. U. launches center for entrepreneurship

WEST LONG BRANCH — Monmouth University's School of Business has launched the Monmouth University Center for Entrepreneurship (MUCE). The center works with local entrepreneurs to help them turn their business ideas into thriving ventures.

Through MUCE, Monmouth University Entrepreneurship students create and implement a business plan for two businesses each year, providing support and counsel in the areas of marketing and advertising, sales, research and development, Web site design, production, administration and accounting.

MUCE's lending partner, Central Jersey Bank, has provided upward of $20,000 each year in financing for each project. Once the business is up and running, students from the Small Business Management class take over and focus on the growth of the business with a goal of ensuring its viability in the marketplace.

Frederick Kelly, dean of Monmouth University's Business School, said, "These outreach projects accomplish multiple goals. They provide an outstanding laboratory for students to apply their education and gain invaluable experience.

"They also are strong stimulants to the local economy as local businesspersons gain valuable insight into how to establish, implement and expand their business vision," he said, adding, "And, finally, as these businesses grow and expand, they will become contributors to the overall economy as they expand local employment and contribute to the state's overall economy."

As one of its first projects, MUCE students have been working with the Redeem Her Organization to open up a thrift store in Neptune. All proceeds from the store, called Second Chances, will be donated to Redeem Her, a nonprofit self-help service organization that is directed by inmates and ex-offenders.

The organization exists to bridge the gap between incarcerated women and their community and to prove that people really can be redeemed. Monmouth students and members of Redeem Her are involved in all aspects of the project, including creating a business plan, decorating, floor plans, sorting through donations, installing walls, public relations, marketing and staffing.

The store opened on Nov. 12 and provides recently released women with the basic necessities needed to live and get back on their feet.

The second business that MUCE is supporting this year is The Film School. Shrewsbury resident Neal Bennet had years of experience in filming and loved teaching. His dream was to combine the two and to teach filmmaking to high school students.

MUCE created a business plan for him, helped him secure a loan, negotiated studio space, and will continue to help him monitor his finances and other details of the business throughout the year.

For more information on the MUCE, call 732-263-5575 or visit www.monmouth. edu.