Overview:
ASSETS Montco was formed by a coalition of policymakers, religious leaders, concerned citizens, and Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA). For over 50 years, MEDA has provided business training and peer lending groups for entrepreneurs abroad. Business people in the United States and Canada turned to MEDA and said, "You do such a great job abroad, what can you do for us here at home?" MEDA created ASSETS Lancaster, the first ASSETS program, in 1993. ASSETS Montco was formed in 1996 and is based on the Lancaster model. Currently 19 ASSETS programs work with underserved communities in North America.
Mission:
to assist Montgomery County (PA) persons with limited resources who have a potential vision for self-employment and small business initiatives, by providing hands on training, peer mentoring and support network.
Statistics:
As of May 2008:
--451 persons supported by ASSETS Montco
--288 participants completed the training program
--94 started a micro enterprise
--94 reinforced a micro enterprise
--72% Low income, 71% minorities, 51% Women
--99 Full time jobs, 128 Part time jobs created.
Links:
U.S. Small Business Administration |
