SHCCNJ Opens Applications for the 2nd Annual No-Cost Level Up Entrepreneurship Training Series

LYNDHURST, N.J. — The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ) today announced that applications are now open for the 2nd annual Level Up Entrepreneurship Training Series (LETS), its signature no-cost, bilingual, 10-week executive business growth initiative designed to help established entrepreneurs scale their companies, strengthen operations, and achieve sustainable growth. 

Designed for business owners ready to reach their next stage of growth, LETS delivers executive-level instruction in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, technology integration, marketing, networking, and generational wealth building. Participants develop or refine a strategic business plan, engage with experienced business leaders and peers, and prepare key growth milestones such as hiring employees, securing commercial space, and accessing capital. Graduates also gain access to individualized mentorship tailored to their specific business goals. 

The 2026 cohort runs Aug. 14 through Oct. 23, with sessions held Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ET. The series includes nine virtual sessions and one in-person session. Eligible applicants must have operated their business for at least three years and generate a minimum of $150,000 in annual revenue. 

“LETS combines executive-level business education, hands-on learning, mentorship, peer collaboration, and practical tools to help established entrepreneurs scale their businesses. This is how we build generational wealth in our community and familia — not by working harder alone, but by giving entrepreneurs the education and the room to scale together, said Dr. Jairo Borja, Vice President, SHCCNJ Corporate & Entrepreneurial Programs. 

Latino-owned businesses contribute more than $127 billion annually to New Jersey's economy, underscoring the critical role entrepreneurs play in driving innovation, job creation, and long-term economic growth. 

"Behind every dollar of that $127 billion is an entrepreneur who took a chance, created opportunity, and built something meaningful," said John Lucas, president and CEO of SHCCNJ. "For the past 2 years, LETS has equipped business owners with the knowledge, strategy, and network to build stronger companies. When entrepreneurs succeed, they create jobs, strengthen communities, and help power New Jersey's economy." 

For entrepreneurs like JoeMiguel, the impact of LETS extends well beyond the classroom. 

"The LETS program gave me the knowledge, mentorship, and confidence to grow my brand and pursue bigger opportunities. The support and connections I gained through the program helped me move from ideas to action. I wholeheartedly recommend LETS to any entrepreneur who is serious about building and growing a successful business," said JoeMiguel, internationally recognized curl specialist and founder of JoeMiguel Salon, JoeMiguel Academy, and the JoeMiguel professional hair care line. 

Elisa Charters, chair of SHCCNJ's Education Committee, a LETS graduate, MWBE/SBE-certified business owner, and founder of Juegos AI Lab, said SHCCNJ's investment in entrepreneurial education strengthens both businesses and New Jersey's economy. 

"Programs like LETS exist to elevate the long-term success of talented entrepreneurs," Charters said. "Business owners emerge with a real plan, critical skills, and real confidence with a new network, familia. Investing in our members' growth is investing in the future of New Jersey's economy." 

Applications are open through Aug. 7, 2026. For more information or to apply, contact Daniela C. Velez at [email protected] or 201-935-0035.