Bakersfield College is celebrating the grand opening of the LaunchPad program.

LaunchPad is open to BC, Cal State Bakersfield and Kern High School District students and all community members.

Resources include assessments, which can help someone determine their personal and professional readiness to start a business, and meeting space with computers and printers to facilitate collaboration.

The idea launched after BC officials began working with the Kern Initiative for Talent and Entrepreneurship.

The group, which provides resources and structure for those looking to start a business, met with the college about a year ago to see how they could help.

Not only will it provide a starting point, but it will also offer a path toward an associate's degree.

The office's hours are noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to noon on Friday. It is located at the Weill Institute at 2100 Chester Ave.