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NATCHEZ — Jarita Frazier-King has been named the new Director of the Women’s Business Center at Alcorn State University.

In addition to this role, she co-founded the Frazier Extended Education and Cultural Enrichment Center in Natchez, Southwest Wellness Association of Mississippi, which operates in collaboration with Pretty Girls with Brains at the historic Frazier Elementary School building.

This new position marks a full circle moment for King, who three years ago received guidance from the former Women’s Business Center Director, Daye Dearing, and other mentors to win a pitch competition that significantly advanced her business. Now leading the center, she focuses on supporting entrepreneurs in achieving similar milestones.

The Women’s Business Center provides free services to all clients. While its primary mission is to assist women-owned businesses, the center also serves minority-, veteran-, and male-owned businesses, connecting them with the right resources and partners to ensure their success.

The center collaborates with local junior colleges, school districts, chambers of commerce, and the City of Natchez Workforce Development Team to offer a wide range of resources. Efforts include workshops, training sessions, and networking opportunities aimed at helping small businesses grow, thrive, and achieve financial sustainability.

A key initiative is hosting bi-monthly retail markets to enhance visibility for local entrepreneurs. Currently serving more than 900 clients, the Women’s Business Center aims to help at least 20 businesses start, grow, or sustain their operations by the end of the year. This includes partnerships with the School of Agriculture to offer product development support.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Mississippi,” King said. “In rural communities, they are what hold us together, and supporting their growth is vital for our economy.”

Community members and entrepreneurs are encouraged to participate in the retail market and upcoming training opportunities as part of ongoing efforts to support local business development. If you would like to become a client or to get more information contact jfk@alcorn.edu or dwest @alcorn.edu or https://www.google.com/search?q=alcorn+women+business+center&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en-us&client=safari#