Chamber announces Vicksburg Entrepreneur Bootcamp

The six-session program begins Tuesday, May 26, concluding with a Business Plan Competition and a celebratory Graduation Ceremony. Classes will be held at MCITy – 1622 Washington Street from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

“Entrepreneurs are the heart of a strong and growing local economy, and this Bootcamp represents one of the most meaningful ways our community invests in its entrepreneurs.” said Pablo Diaz, President & CEO of the Vicksburg Warren Economic Development Partnership. “Through the partnership of the Chamber, the City of Vicksburg, Warren County, and our local banking partners, we are proud to continue offering a program that equips entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to build sucessful businesses. Wherever they are in their journey, they don’t have to go at it alone, this program is perfect for them to find the support they need.”

The Bootcamp uses the Business Model Canvas framework to help participants identify their customers, define their value propositions, gain a realistic understanding of their startup costs, and develop marketing and sales strategies to help them make the business profitable faster. Throughout the program, participants will work directly on their own business concepts while learning from subject matter experts in finance, marketing, legal, and economic development.

“As both a serial entrepreneur and a graduate of the Entrepreneur Bootcamp, I’ve seen firsthand the value this program provides,” said Kendra Reed, owner of McRaven Tour Home, The Inn at Cedar Grove, and Delta Dirt Shirts. “The Bootcamp gives participants the

structure, financial insight, and support needed to turn ideas into viable businesses. It also connects entrepreneurs with resources and mentors that continue to benefit them long after the program ends.”

The Vicksburg Entrepreneur Bootcamp is open to aspiring entrepreneurs, side-hustle businesses, existing small business owners, and individuals exploring self-employment.

Willis Thompson, Mayor of the City of Vicksburg, highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship to the city’s future. “Entrepreneurship is vital to our city’s continued growth and vitality. The Entrepreneur Bootcamp reflects the spirit of Vicksburg, resilient, innovative, and forward looking. We are proud to support programs that invest in our residents, strengthen our local economy, and help turn their vision into economic opportunity right here at home.”

Participants who complete the program will have the opportunity to enter the Business Plan Competition, where they will present their business concept to a panel of bankers. The competition winner will receive a $1,500 grant, which is funded by Delta Bank, Guaranty Bank & Trust Company, Huntington Bank, Mutual Credit Union, Regions Bank, RiverHills Bank, and Trustmark National Bank.

Dr. Kelle Barfield, President, Warren County Board of Supervisors and small business owner, added, “Small businesses play a vital role in the success of our community. The Entrepreneur Bootcamp helps foster that entrepreneurial spirit by creating opportunity, building wealth, and strengthening our local economy. It also gives individuals the tools and confidence they need to move forward while contributing to the long-term economic vitality of Warren County.”

All participants who complete the Bootcamp will receive a Certificate of Completion and will be recognized during a graduation celebration. Graduates are encouraged to invite family, friends, and business partners as they showcase their business ideas and celebrate their accomplishments.

Enrollment is open and spaces are limited. The cost is $100, which includes materials, expert-led instruction, meals, and the opportunity to compete for the $1,500 grant.

The deadline to register is Friday, May 15.

For more information call Chris Rials at the Vicksburg – Warren Chamber of Commerce at 601-636-1012 or crials@vicksburgchamber.org

To register, visit the website:

Entrepreneur Bootcamp