Startup Quest, an entrepreneurship training program for out of work, degree-holding professionals, launched in Northeast Florida. The program, one of the first of its kind in the U.S., is a partnership between Florida Works, the University of Florida, the JAX Chamber and WorkSource.

FloridaWorks received a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to fund the program throughout the state of Florida. Unlike traditional workforce programs, Startup Quest is not a skill-based training course or traditional classroom-style course. Instead, the program’s personal and experiential process allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of the possibilities of starting a new company or joining a startup venture as part of a dedicated team.

The program is designed to increase employability of participants by introducing them to new industries, leading to new ways of viewing their potential contributions as potential employees and team members, and connecting them to a network of experienced and successful CEO/mentors and entrepreneurs. In addition to teaching entrepreneurship skills, the program will work with businesses to create training for their job needs. Training will also be available for veterans.

Those interested in participating can register for an informational session, held May 14, from 2 to 6 p.m., at www.startupquestjax.eventbrite.com.

The Chamber’s Entrepreneurial Growth Division provides mentoring, entrepreneurial education, consulting and networking opportunities to advance the success of entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. For more information on the programs and services of the Entrepreneurial Growth Division, visit myjaxchamber.com and select the “Start or Grow a Business” tab.