If you're looking to start your own business and could use $5-thousand dollars to get started, the community of Monticello wants you.

The Monticello Community Development Office has opened registration for their first ever business "Boot Camp". According to Callie McFarland, with Monticello's Community Development office, they are hosting an intensive five week business course for aspiring business owners.

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The end of September is when the five week sessions begin. McFarland says they have a wide-array of speakers to come in and speak with attendees. Topics will range from credit discussions to legal advice.

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Thanks to a grant through Monticello Main Street, McFarland indicates they are able to offer this opportunity. She says without some private and public partnerships, the opportunity would not be possible.

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McFarland says they plan to have a list of possible downtown locations for a potential business to locate to.

To learn more about this free opportunity, contact McFarland at Monticello City Hall by calling 217-762-2583. There is no registration deadline and there is no maximum occupancy for the classes.

The first class opens September 29.