Staff Reports
High school and college students across DeKalb and Jackson counties are invited to discover their inner entrepreneur through a free, hands-on experience at the Northeast Alabama Community College Entrepreneurial Center (NACC E-Center).
The Everyday Entrepreneur Workshop and Problem-Solving Competition will be held at the NACC E-Center in Rainsville over three sessions:
Wednesday, Nov. 5,
4–5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 12,
4–5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 19,
4–5:30 p.m. — The Pitch
Participants will explore what it truly means to be an entrepreneur, beyond starting a business. The workshop emphasizes curiosity, creativity, and real-world problem solving, helping students see how everyday challenges can inspire innovative solutions or even launch potential ventures.
Attendees will also gain insight into social entrepreneurship, teamwork, and presenting ideas. The series concludes with a live pitch competition, where participants will share their innovative ideas for a chance to win up to $5,000 in prizes.
“We welcome and encourage students with business ideas to pitch them,” said Jennifer McCurdy, director of the NACC E-Center. “Whether you’ve been dreaming of starting a jewelry business, a lawn care service, an online boutique, or developing a new product or tech solution, we want to hear your ideas.”
However, McCurdy emphasized that students do not need to have a business idea to participate. “This program is about developing the mindset of an entrepreneur — thinking differently, tackling challenges, and finding new ways to make a difference,” she said.
Prizes will be awarded for standout business ideas, best problem-solving solutions, and overall creativity and presentation.
The event is open to NACC students, including those in workforce development programs, as well as high school students aged 15 and older enrolled in DeKalb or Jackson County and City Schools.
Space is limited, and RSVP is required. Interested students can email ecenter@nacc.edu for more information or register online at www.nacc.edu/ecenter.
The program is made possible through a grant from the National Association of Community College Entrepreneurship’s Everyday Entrepreneur Program.
Students and community members can follow the NACC E-Center on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook for updates on upcoming innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities.
About NACC E-Center:
The NACC Entrepreneurial Center is a regional hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration in Northeast Alabama. It provides students, startups, and community members with resources, mentorship, and programs designed to turn ideas into action.
