Discounted workshop for entrepreneursFeb. 23, 2010 KALAMAZOO--The regional Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center based at Western Michigan University is teaming up with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. to host an eight-week entrepreneurial workshop next month at a reduced cost. Gov. Jennifer Granholm announced this month that the MEDC has contributed funding to make the FastTrac New Venture workshop on how to start a business available at MI-SBTDC sites statewide for only $100 during 2010. The program, which teaches participants how to successfully launch and grow a small business, normally costs $700. The region 11 MI-SBTDC based at WMU covers the nine counties comprising southwest Michigan and is located in Schneider Hall, home to WMU's Haworth College of Business. It will offer an eight-week version of the workshop from March 18-May 13. Classes will meet Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon in Room 3150 of Schneider Hall. No class will be held May 6. To qualify for the $100 fee, participants must attend one orientation session, and one MI-SBTDC class on either the Fundamentals of Starting a Business or the Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan. Orientation sessions
Several sections of the two MI-SBTDC classes have been scheduled in the local area, as well as elsewhere around Michigan during the next few weeks. The orientation session will give attendees a detailed overview of FastTrac New Venture, which is a program of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation that is designed and facilitated by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. One of America's leading entrepreneurial training programs, this practical, hands-on business development workshop helps entrepreneurs hone the skills needed to create, manage and grow a successful business. Participants work on their own business ideas or ventures throughout the program--moving their ventures to reality or new levels of growth. The training includes a combination of classroom, small group, online and hands-on coaching along with guest speakers and learning from other entrepreneurs. Pre-registration is required for all three components of the training. Registrations will be accepted until all seats are filled at the workshop as well as the orientation sessions and MI-SBTDC classes. Seats are filling quickly, so those wishing to participate in the FastTrac New Venture workshop are encouraged to make their reservations today. To register or obtain more information, visit MI-SBTDC Training online or contact the center at sbtdc-kzoo@wmich.edu or (269) 387-6004. Questions should be directed to Buffy Nespodzany, training coordinator for the region 11 MI-SBTDC, at (269) 387-6004. Media contact: Jeanne Baron, (269) 387-8400, jeanne.baron@wmich.edu WMU News |
