Ala. (WBRC) – Aspiring and early-stage business owners in Walker County will have a chance to develop their ideas into sustainable businesses through a new 10-week program in Jasper
Jasper Main Street announced Friday the launch of Venture Jasper, a Co.Starters Entrepreneurship Program, to help people turn their ideas into sustainable businesses.
Mike Putman, the Executive Director of Jasper Main Street, said the program will give local business owners access to the tools, guidance and support to build a strong foundation for success.
“Whether someone is beginning with a brand-new idea or working to strengthen an existing business model, this program will help them move forward with greater clarity and confidence,” Putman said.
The program uses the Co.Starters Canvas framework to teach people how to test and refine their idea, better understand their customers, develop revenue models, navigate legal and accounting and create strategies for long-term growth.
The program will come at a discounted cost thanks to help from another local nonprofit.
“Thanks to a generous grant from the Walker Area Community Foundation, Jasper Main Street is able to offer Venture Jasper at a significantly reduced cost,” Jasper Main Street officials said in Friday’s announcement.
While Jasper Main Street said other comparable programs can costs $500 or more, Venture Jasper will cost participants $55. That includes course materials, light refreshments, presentations from guest speakers and mentorship opportunities.
Venture Jasper will meet Tuesday evenings from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Jasper Welcome Center at 311 West 18th Street beginning Sept. 15.
Only 10 spots are available in the program and attendance to all 10 sessions is required to graduate from the program. People who complete the course will become eligible to apply for a Jasper Main Street grant to assist with marketing their business.
Applications are due Friday, Sept. 4.
To apply or to learn more, click or tap here or contact Mike Putman at mike@jaspermainstreet.com.
Get news alerts in the Apple App Store and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.raycom.wbrc&hl=en_US&gl=US” rel=”nofollow noopener” target=”_blank”>Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here.
Copyright 2026 WBRC. All rights reserved.
