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JA, BIJC Announce Accelerator Program for New Retailers
The new Emerging Jewelers Accelerator Program is seeking subject matter experts to provide mentorship to new retailers.
Black in Jewelry Coalition and Jewelers of America have announced the Emerging Jewelers Accelerator Program, an eight-month mentorship program for jewelry retailer business owners.
New York— Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC) and Jewelers of America (JA) have announced the launch of the Emerging Jewelers Accelerator Program (EJAP), a mentorship program for new retailers on building and maintaining a successful business in the jewelry industry.
The workshop curriculum, led by a variety of subject matter experts (SMEs), will cover business topics such as business strategy; human resources and operations; product development and jewelry forensics; accounting; marketing and sales; legal; insurance and security; manufacturing; and ethical sourcing.
BIJC and JA are currently accepting applications for SMEs until Sept. 14. Experts will be responsible for creating and leading a one- to two-hour-long interactive workshop and mentoring participants for the duration of the eight-month program. Stipends up to $1,000 are available.
The application, along with eligibility requirements, can be found on JA’s website.
Applications for retail participants will open shortly. A cohort of five jewelry entrepreneurs will be chosen to take part in the program.
“BIJC is working to ensure that our members have access to opportunities and education that can help their business be ‘built to last’ and this partnership with JA enables participants in the EJAP access to subject matter experts that will help them do just that,” said BIJC President Annie Doresca.
At the end of the program, participants will give a presentation on how what they have learned will be utilized in their businesses. A $5,000 grant will be awarded to one participant, and $1,250 will go to each of the other four.
Participants will retain access to periodic check-in calls, quarterly workshops, and invitations to industry events in the future.
“Jewelers of America is committed to continually advancing the jewelry industry by providing the tools necessary for retailers to be pillars for confident and savvy jewelry consumers,” said JA President David Bonaparte.
“We are proud to work with BJIC on this important program and look forward to finalizing the program’s curriculum.”
The EJAP is supported by the JCK Industry Support Fund.
Questions about the Emerging Jewelers Accelerator Program can be directed to ejap@jewelers.org.
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