STUDENTS SELECTED FOR BUSINESS INCUBATOR

ASHEVILLE, N.C., Sept. 4 -- Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College issued the following press release:

A software training and 3D production company, a screen-printing and graphic designer, an Internet technologies company and an educational consultant company are members of A-B Tech's 2009-10 Student Business Incubator Program.

The Student Business Incubator Program is a 12-month extracurricular activity running from July to June, administered by the A-B Tech Center for Business and Technology Incubation. It is located at A-B Tech's Enka site.

"The program, open to all current A-B Tech students, is designed to provide a nurturing, supportive environment for those who want to start their own business and guide them toward becoming sustainable, contributing members of a strong economic community," said Jill Sparks, Small Business Center director.

In addition to office space, technical equipment, networking opportunities and business counseling, students accepted into the program are eligible to receive grants up to $5,000 each and have access to a non-interest bearing loan as well.

By providing critical assistance during the start-up phase, the Student Business Incubator Program will help overcome the odds of business failure, according to Sparks. "A National Business Incubation Association (NBIA) study reports that 87 percent of incubator startups are still in business after 10 years, compared to a survival rate of only 44 percent of non-participants after four years in business," she said.

Steven Schain's Spectralight Images, LLC is a software training and 3D production company providing businesses customized training and multimedia development.

"We have developed a comprehensive 3D content creation training service, covering a broad range of production skills and fulfilling clients needs across many industries," said Entrepreneurship student Schain.

Business Administration student Chad Bergin's company is American Revolution Design, which produces military art and screen-printed casual apparel.

"I offer screen printing and graphic design and my shirts are available at Alpha Army/Navy Surplus near Biltmore Square Mall," Bergin said. "I strive to maintain historical accuracy in my artwork."

LogoSafe LLC is an Internet technologies company formed by students Gerald Scott and Lydia Scott, enrolled in Entrepreneurship and Business Administration, respectively.

LogoSafe is a technology that greatly simplifies the distribution of logos, trademarks, and images over the Internet. "We provide intellectual property owners greater control at reduced costs and enhance public safety online. Our solutions are user friendly, flexible, and affordable. We employ independent thinkers that value social networks and invite dialog," said Gerald Scott.

Entrepreneurship student Angela M. Rosebrough's company is Raimondo Consulting Group, LLC, which offers in-home tutoring and transitions seminars for high school seniors to first-year college students.

Tutors with at least three years of college in a major degree area are hired after passing civil and criminal background checks and are matched with students to fit client needs.

"Helping students confidently meet the challenges of the next level is my passion - whether end of grade tests, middle or high school, college or work. My Master's degree is in English and I'm an experienced college instructor, high school teacher and I have tutored students from elementary through high school," Rosebrough said.For more information please contact: Sarabjit Jagirdar, Email:- htsyndication@hindustantimes.com.