MISSISSIPPI STATE -- A new network is available to let owners of Mississippi microenterprises know they are not alone and to offer them assistance as they grow.

The Mississippi Micro-Enterprise Association Network consists of service providers to microenterprises. The Mississippi State University Extension Service is a charter member of this group that focuses on promoting job creation through microenterprise.

Along with the creation of this network comes access to a new source of funding. The Training and Technical Assistance Funding program is the result of a partnership between MMEAN, the Enterprise Corporation of the Delta and the Mississippi Development Authority.

Micro-businesses are defined as those employing five or fewer people. They can be part-time or full-time businesses, and can be home-based, farm-based or located in a facility.

"Microbusinesses are at the leading edge of the enterprise formation process," said Beth Duncan, Extension small business specialist and MMEAN member. "Most microbusinesses need access to technical information, small amounts of credit and networking opportunities."

In 2003, Mississippi became the 29th state to form a micro-enterprise association to promote networking among small businesses and supporters. MMEAN's goal is to provide leadership, advocacy, resources, training and technical assistance to organizations promoting microenterprise development in Mississippi.

A "rollout celebration" for the Training and Technical Assistance Funding program is set for Oct. 17 at the Capital Rotunda in Jackson. The public is invited to the celebration. For more information on small business start-up or the rollout, contact Beth Duncan at (662) 325-2160. For information on MMEAN, contact Patrick McDonough at (601) 992-1276.