Troy's Start Your Business named among top-based learning programs in AL

Troy University’s Start Your Business (SYB) Program was recently named one of the top 17 work-based learning programs in Alabama by the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship. 

Start Your Business is a comprehensive program designed for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients. The program consists of 20 classes broken into five modules on entrepreneurship, business basics, marketing, finance, and professionalism.  

The program, which is part of the Sorrell College’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), was created by SBDC Director Juliana Bolivar. SYB is also currently implemented statewide through a partnership with the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR). 

Bolivar gave some insight into how the program came to be. 

“I realized that our clients who are receiving SNAP benefits or that are in certain circumstances, we really didn’t have the resources to serve them, so I decided to find resources or partnerships that we could implement to make more time for this type of client,” Bolivar said. “The opportunity with the DHR came across, and we presented a proposal for our contract about four years ago, and it was approved as the first program in employment readiness and workforce development for self-employment.” 

Those who complete the online course then complete hours of mentorship and consulting with Bolivar. Participants then go into an action-focused business masterclass. 

Last fall, the Start Your Business team presented the model during the 2024 South Alabama Work-Based Learning Best Practices Convening. The program was then invited to deliver a breakout session at the 2026 Statewide Summit on Talent Retention and Work-Based Learning. 

Bolivar shared what this recognition means to the program. 

“Self-employment is one of the least recognized but also most valuable ways to economic and financial advancement for low- and middle-income families,” Bolivar said. “So [with this recognition] the program gets visibility, self-employment gets to be recognized as a path to increase the income of our families in the state and the opportunity to expand our reach to other groups throughout different partnerships.” 

SYB is an adaptable course model that has already proven successful with other populations. The model has been piloted with incarcerated women in Pike County, youth programs, caregivers and more. 

Bolivar shared how it makes her feel to have her program recognized. 

“I am proud of my team and the hard work,” Bolivar said. “Knowing that our program has been recognized for its excellence, for the innovation, for the continuous work on improving the model, adding dynamic components to it is definitely a reason to feel very proud of the accomplishments of my team.” 

Bolivar discussed plans for the program. 

“Right now, with the experience we have growing and reaching other populations like stay-at-home moms trying to create and formalize their childcare businesses, other rural businesses, veteran-owned businesses and justice involved individuals would definitely be our next step,” Bolivar said. “I would also love to see it replicated outside of the state.” 

Those interested in registering or learning more can visit https://www.troy.edu/about-us/strategic-approach/small-business-center.html.