The beginning of a new year often involves resolving to change different habits to have a happier, healthier and more successful year.

According to a press release, the Albert Lea Entrepreneur Advancement Program team would like to renew its commitment to the ALEAP participants to have an exciting year filled with education opportunities and meaningful connections.

The group will begin that commitment by asking for new ideas and feedback for the ALEAP programming at the 2018 ALEAP kickoff party from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Edgewater Bay Pavilion in Edgewater Park. No registration is required for the free event.

The release said as the ALEAP team kicks off 2018, they want to harness the creative power of local entrepreneurs and get their input on what they would like to see from ALEAP in 2018.

All local entrepreneurs and small business owners are invited to attend monthly ALEAP networking events as well as educational trainings. And ALEAP events are always open to everyone with a passion for entrepreneurship and small business growth in our community. More details about the event can be found on the ALEAP Facebook page.

The ALEAP program is an initiative to promote and assist Albert Lea and Freeborn County entrepreneurs through a multi-faceted approach. Features of the program are monthly networking gatherings on the third Thursday of the month, educational and training opportunities, available incubator and co-working space shared with other entrepreneurs, and micro lending/gap financing options.

The program is housed under the Albert Lea Economic Development Agency umbrella and is a partnership between ALEDA, the local Blandin Community Leadership cohort, Riverland Community College and  Riverland Foundation. Since the program started in June 2015, ALEAP participants have started eight new businesses and created 23 new jobs.

ALEDA is the local economic development organization made up of two separate entities: the Albert Lea Port Authority and Greater Jobs, Inc. If you are a new or expanding business looking for assistance, or are interested in more information about the ALEAP program,  contact ALEDA at 507-373-3930.