WELCOME TO THE:

NJ Rural Business Academy

Our mission is to deliver practical online business education that strengthens rural business competitiveness, supports job creation, and helps build resilient local economies.

Everything in this program was designed with rural New Jersey businesses in mind.
Because your challenges and your opportunities are unique. And you deserve a program built specifically for you.

2026

Do you Qualify?
WHO WE ARE

NJ Rural Business Academy

The NJ Rural Business Academy (NJRBA) is a USDA-funded training and support program created specifically for entrepreneurs and small business owners operating in rural communities across New Jersey.

Through short, practical learning modules, expert guidance, and personalized advising, the Academy helps you strengthen your business foundation, access capital, and build a roadmap for sustainable growth.

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale, the NJRBA connects you with the tools, strategies, and support needed to move your business forward.
FIRST STEP:

Register today
Approved USDA applicants receive access by email

What Participants Can Expect

The NJ Rural Business Academy combines self-paced learning, expert advising, and live events to help you apply what you learn directly to your business.

Participants receive:
  • 7 On-Demand Training Modules: covering the fundamentals of starting, managing, and growing a business
  • One-on-One Advising with Small Business Development Center experts
  • Live Webinars and Workshops on topics like capital access, AI tools, and workforce development
  • Quarterly resource convenings to connect with local business leaders and partners
  • Each module includes practical tools, worksheets, and application exercises designed to help you make real progress in your business.



50+

Elevated Small Businesses

What You’ll Walk Away With

By completing the NJ Rural Business Academy, you’ll develop the critical building blocks needed to grow and sustain your business.

Participants work toward:

  A fundable business plan

  12-month financial projections

  A clear capital access roadmap

  A marketing strategy tailored to your market

  A hiring and workforce plan

  A disaster resilience and continuity plan

  Practical AI tools and digital workflows

  Cybersecurity fundamentals

  A network of advisors and support organizations

By the end of the program, you’ll be:

  Loan-ready

  Grant-ready

  Investor-ready

  Clear on pricing and profitability

  Stronger in financial management and cash flow

  Connected to ongoing support resources


Program Curriculum

The Academy is structured into seven modules, each focused on a key aspect of building and growing a successful business.

Introduction & Rural Business Ecosystem

Understand the resources available to rural businesses and how the NJRBA supports entrepreneurs across the region.

Business & Entrepreneurship Fundamentals

Learn how to formalize your business, create a strategic plan, and build the foundation for sustainable growth.

Access to Capital & Financial Management

Understand funding options, financial projections, and how to prepare your business for lenders and investors.

Marketing, Sales & AI Tools for Rural Enterprises

Develop a marketing strategy, explore digital tools, and learn how to reach customers beyond your immediate market.

Workforce Development & Job Creation

Build strategies to recruit, train, and retain employees while planning for long-term workforce sustainability.

Disaster Preparedness & Economic Resilience

Protect your business with continuity planning and risk management strategies.

Building a Rural Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Learn how to connect with chambers, economic development organizations, and regional partners to grow your business.
Write your awesome label here.

A Program Built for Rural Businesses

The NJ Rural Business Academy is funded through a USDA Rural Business Development Grant and administered by the New Jersey Small Business Development Center at William Paterson University.

The program was developed based on feedback from:

  Rural business owners

  Municipal leaders

  Economic development organizations

  Industry experts

The goal is simple: deliver practical education and support that helps rural businesses succeed.
NEXT STEP

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re ready to strengthen your business and connect with the resources available to rural entrepreneurs in New Jersey, the NJ Rural Business Academy is here to help.

Register today and start building the next phase of your business.
Drag to resize
— FOLLOW US ON EVENTBRITE

Stay in touch with our Webinars and Events
Drag to resize
Drag to resize
Drag to resize



Copyright © 2026

Contact

  • 1600 Valley Road, 4th Floor Room 4038
    Wayne, NJ 07470
  • sbdc@wpunj.edu
  • (973) 720-4119

Have Questions?

Need help or having technical issues?