SANFORD - Are you thinking about starting a new business? Or have you been in business less than two years?

The RISE (Real Investment in Sanford Entrepreneurs) Program introduces entrepreneurs and existing business owners to the concepts and practices that will give interested individuals the tools necessary for business success.

This eight-class program begins Feb. 27 and ends March 29, with classes on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center in Sanford.

At the end of the program, each participant should have produced a basic small business plan, and will have the opportunity to present their plan and business concept to a team of business professionals.

All attendees must apply online. Classes are free, but participants must be pre-registered and approved to be guaranteed a space. The deadline to apply is Jan. 31. Class size is limited to 12 individuals.

The RISE Program is an entrepreneur-development program presented by the Central Carolina Community College Small Business Center, Downtown Sanford, Inc., and the Sanford Area Growth Alliance Chamber of Commerce.

Learn more and register at www.leesbc.com/rise. Or, for more information, call the CCCC Small Business Center at 919-718-7544.