South Baldwin County will once again host EPIC, a student entrepreneur program presented by the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation and the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber, starting this fall.

EPIC (Entrepreneur Program Impacting Communities) offers a year-long, interactive and educational experience that teaches students the basics of starting a business. The program provides networking opportunities, resources and funding for student start-ups.

In its inaugural year, EPIC delivered individual business mentorship, collaborative learning experiences and $3,000 in grants to student startups.

"This year, we are hoping to grow the program and would love to see representation from each school in South Baldwin County," said Tara McMeans, EPIC facilitator.

The after-school program is open to public, private and homeschooled students in grades 7-12 in Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Elberta and nearby areas. Interested students must apply by July 31. Accepted participants will access an online business curriculum, be paired with mentors and attend monthly in-person meetings with guest speakers at Coastal Alabama Community College in Gulf Shores.

"The networking opportunities from joining the EPIC program are endless for the students! Even if you don't have a business plan in mind, making new connections and being a part of the business community is worth joining the program," said Tyler Morgan of the Gateway Initiative.

EPIC also seeks volunteers to mentor and businesses to sponsor the program. Sponsorships start at $50 and are tax-deductible through the 501(c)(3) Foundation.

"Joining EPIC can teach you skills that you can't learn in school, introduce you to people that can be great allies in the future, and bring you closer to your community as a whole," said EPIC student Austyn Manasco.
For more information or to apply as a student, mentor, or sponsor, visit www.SBChamberFoundation.org.