Submitted PhotoBen Blanton and Angie Crawford recently shared insurance and risk fundamentals with the Young Entrepreneurs Academy.

VALDOSTA — Students learned about insurance and risk connected to new businesses.

Students from the Young Entrepreneurs Academy were introduced to Angie Crawford from State Farm Insurance and Ben Blanton from Blanton & Griffin Insurance Agency, who spoke to the class about the importance of insurance and risk management when starting a small business, according to an organizational press release. 

Speakers explored the formal process of how an organization establishes its risk-management goals and objectives, as well as how to identify and analyze risk and liability. 

Students were taught in order to avoid health and legal liability, risk-management procedures need to be put in place before starting any new enterprise or social movement. 

“I’ve always had a special passion for entrepreneurship, and I think this program is a great way for young students to be able to explore their passions and learn what it’s like to start a business,” Blanton said. 

During the course of the YEA! program, 13 students will launch 13 small businesses, which include product ideas such as online learning resources, mobile laser tag and specialized archery coats. 

“We are thrilled to be able to support such a dynamic group of individuals in our community,” Crawford said.

YEA! is a 30-week program provided by the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce. 

As part of the program, students are introduced to all facets of the business world including, but not limited to, advertising, legal, graphic design and web development, according to YEA! officials. 

“By welcoming the YEA! program into our local area, we are joining countless other chambers across the country who strive to ignite the spirit of entrepreneurship in their communities,” said Myrna Ballard, chamber president.

As a non-profit organization, YEA! relies on support from the community and sponsors; people who identify with entrepreneurship and want to help pave the way for the future business leaders of tomorrow, according to organizers.

“Our local business leaders, who were one time standing in their shoes, are able to offer students relatable insights from their own paths to success,” Ballard said.