Events/Workshops

Discover resources available at your local library that can help you make informed decisions about your business’ future. The Portage District Library will share how to use their business collection to locate market research information. Learn how to determine your target market, estimate the size of the market and locate your competition along with other information that impacts small businesses. Business research classes are presented by Nicolette Sosulski, Business Librarian, at the Portage District Library. Pre-registration is required. Please register on-line at www.misbtdc.org/region11/training.

This course is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. Delivered in a workshop format, this introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

Speaker: Susan Bates, Business Counselor

This course is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. Delivered in a workshop format, this introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

Speaker: Kellie Hanford

As an introductory session delivered in a workshop format, the course helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

Speaker: Jan Davies McDermott

Thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? This workshop is designed to teach best practices for increasing your chances of entrepreneurial success. We will cover the three primary means of business start-up; starting a business, buying a franchise and buying an existing business. We will discuss the importance of a business plan and the role of research in business planning and feasibility analysis. Students in this workshop will also learn the importance of a business plan and receive a copy of the MI-SBTDC Guide to Starting a Small Business. You will also learn the myths and realities of small business financing and have an opportunity to ask questions of a business consultant.

Speaker: SBTDC Staff

Are you thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? Are you a business owner who wants to understand which research sources to use for your business plan and where to find the information you need? Then plan to attend this business pre-planning workshop, sponsored by the Oakland County Business Center and The Entrepreneur Source. Agenda: - Do you know what it takes to be an entrepreneur? - Where are the small business resources? - How do I finance my business? - What type of funding is available? - Where do I find relevant information on my industry and for my business? - How often do I need to conduct research for my business?

Speaker: Oakland County Business Center, The Entrepreneur's Source, Oakland County Research Department and Oakland County Public Library

Fundamentals of Starting a Business - now held quarterly at Jackson District Library, 244 West Michigan Avenue, Jackson MI. This event is FREE but space is limited so you must pre-register online.

Speaker: SBTDC Business Consultant Roni Weaver

You have a passion … a hidden talent. Do you know what it takes to turn that skill into a successful business? This seminar is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting a business. You will be introduced to the key characteristics of successful business ownership, and what it takes to start and run a thriving business. Plus, you will be provided with available resources to help launch new ventures in Michigan. Get focused, motivated and ready to go! Who should attend this seminar? Entrepreneurs, business owners, innovators, and ‘closet’ business owners.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant

Designed for persons thinking of starting a business or in the early stages of startup. The "Fundamentals of Starting a Business" workshop is the first step for many in MI-SBTDC assistance, which may be followed by additional training or no-cost, one-on-one counseling. Course content: Readiness to be in business, market research and making sure there is market potential for your product or service, detail on the steps and process of starting a business, and will provide information and tools to start writing a business plan.

Speaker: Reg 6 MI-SBTDC Staff

This course is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. Delivered in a workshop format, this introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

Speaker: Gordon Ferguson

Learn the steps to starting your own business. This two-hour workshop, taught by a MI-SBTDC Business Consultant, answers basic questions regarding starting a business and writing a business plan. Issues covered include financing, legal structure, taxes, and government regulations. A business start-up guide, including a complete checklist for starting a business, is included. Pre-registration is required. Please register on-line at www.misbtdc.org/region11.

This course is part 1 of our Business 1-2-3 Session. Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, or business launch, this course covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing, finance, legal, regulatory issues, operations, information based planning and management are key components of this workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included. Live examples of effective business plans are used as course material.

Speaker: Kellie Hanford, Certified Business Consultant

This course is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. Delivered in a workshop format, this introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

This course is part 2 of our Business 1-2-3 Session. This course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to grow small businesses. It covers basic marketing tools including market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors, and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well planned approach to marketing is demonstrated, with several examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques. Focus is on the business's customers - creating and keeping them.

Speaker: Gordon Ferguson, Senior Business Consultant

This course is part 3 of our Business 1-2-3 Session. This course is an introduction to the different types of legal entities that are appropriate for structuring and starting a new business. Tax and liability issues are covered, along with basic elements of a contract, collections, licenses, registrations, employment and property issues, leasing and insurance. It is designed to guide prospective business owners in setting up the organizational structure that will help protect them from unnecessary legal challenges.

Speaker: James R. Duby Jr., Attorney at Law

Fundamentals of Starting a Business: This course is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. Delivered in a workshop format, this introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan. There is no fee for residents of JEBA's service area: St. Jean to the west, Alter and the Detroit border to the east, Charlevoix to the north and the Detroit River to the south.

Speaker: Staff

This course is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. Delivered in a workshop format, this introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

Fundamentals of Starting a Business: As an introductory session delivered in a workshop format, the course helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

Speaker: SBTDC staff

Explore business start-up issues and receive assistance during this orientation session focused on general start-up questions, the importance of good credit, and obtaining financing for your small business. There is no cost for this workshop.

Speaker: SBTDC and Fifth Third Bank

Designed for persons thinking of starting a business or in the early stages of startup. The "Fundamentals of Starting a Business" workshop is the first step for many in MI-SBTDC assistance, which may be followed by additional training or no-cost, one-on-one counseling. Course content: Readiness to be in business, market research and making sure there is market potential for your product or service, detail on the steps and process of starting a business, and will provide information and tools to start writing a business plan.

Speaker: Region 6 MI-SBTDC Staff

You have a passion … a hidden talent. Do you know what it takes to turn that skill into a successful business? This seminar is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting a business. You will be introduced to the key characteristics of successful business ownership, and what it takes to start and run a thriving business. Plus, you will be provided with available resources to help launch new ventures in Michigan. Get focused, motivated and ready to go! Who should attend this seminar? Entrepreneurs, business owners, innovators, and ‘closet’ business owners.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant; Hoyt Library Librarian Representative

This course is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. Delivered in a workshop format, this introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

This course is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. Delivered in a workshop format, this introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan. This is the first class in the MI-SBTDC Entrepreneurial Series .

Speaker: Tim Lake, Certified Small Business Consultant

Thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? This workshop is designed to teach best practices for increasing your chances of entrepreneurial success. We will cover the three primary means of business start-up; starting a business, buying a franchise and buying an existing business. We will discuss the importance of a business plan and the role of research in business planning and feasibility analysis. Students in this workshop will also learn the importance of a business plan and receive a copy of the MI-SBTDC Guide to Starting a Small Business. You will also learn the myths and realities of small business financing and have an opportunity to ask questions of a business consultant.

Speaker: SBTDC Staff

As an introductory session delivered in a workshop format, the course helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products. The basics of business ownership are introduced, along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

Speaker: Jan Davies McDermott

Are you an experienced professional with valuable-defined skill sets, looking for a new career avenue? Think about taking your expertise and becoming an independent consultant, a contractor, or a service provider. Explore the steps to form your business (LLC or other), market yourself and your services, create an action-oriented business plan, and define your client engagement. Take away from your experience, a 1-2 page action-business plan to help you start, build and sustain a successful service-oriented business.

Speaker: Meri Dembrow

You have a passion … a hidden talent. Do you know what it takes to turn that skill into a successful business? This seminar is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting a business. You will be introduced to the key characteristics of successful business ownership, and what it takes to start and run a thriving business. Plus, you will be provided with available resources to help launch new ventures in Michigan. Get focused, motivated and ready to go! Who should attend this seminar? Entrepreneurs, business owners, innovators, and ‘closet’ business owners.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, or business launch, this course covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing, finance, legal, regulatory issues, operations, information based planning and management are key components of this workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included. Live examples of effective business plans are used as course material.

Speaker: Marie Elliott, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

FastTrac, New Venture® is coming to Traverse City this fall. This intense 30-hour “boot camp” is designed specifically for entrepreneurs in the early stages of business development and is co-sponsored by the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Centers (MI-SBTDC) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). The normal $700 per student fee has been reduced to $100 through scholarship funding provided by the Michigan Economic Development Foundation. Class size for fall is limited. Attend this mandatory FastTrac® Orientation to learn more about the program and the special reduced tuition opportunity for the fall class only. There is no charge for the orientation but registration prior to the day is required.

Speaker: Chris Wendel and Meg Havenga

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, or business launch, this course covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing, finance, legal, regulatory issues, operations, information based planning and management are key components of this workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included. Live examples of effective business plans are used as course material.

Speaker: Jan Fokens, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, or business launch, this course covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing, finance, legal, regulatory issues, operations, information based planning and management are key components of this workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included. Live examples of effective business plans are used as course material.

Speaker: Jeri Hopper

FastTrac, New Venture® is coming to Traverse City this fall. This intense 30-hour “boot camp” is designed specifically for entrepreneurs in the early stages of business development and is co-sponsored by the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Centers (MI-SBTDC) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Attendance at a free orientation session is required: September 7 from 6 PM - 9 PM. Please call NMC at (231) 995-1700 with Registration Code = CRN 6325 The normal $700 per student fee has been reduced to $100 through scholarship funding provided by the Michigan Economic Development Foundation. Class size for fall is limited.

Speaker: Chris Wendel and Meg Havenga

An Essential Tool for your Small Business. Every existing or prospective business needs a plan, but every plan is unique. This workshop will help you understand the necessary content and best format for your business plan, and show you the resources to create it.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant Cathie Abad

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, the course, covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing and finance, legal and regulatory issues, operations, and information based planning and management are key components of the workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included along with a demonstration of the MI-SBTDC online business plan tool.

Speaker: Jan Davies McDermott

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, the course, covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing and finance, legal and regulatory issues, operations, and information based planning and management are key components of the workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included along with a demonstration of the MI-SBTDC online business plan tool.

Speaker: SBTDC Staff

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, the course, covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing and finance, legal and regulatory issues, operations, and information based planning and management are key components of the workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included along with a demonstration of the MI-SBTDC online business plan tool.

Speaker: SBTDC Staff

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, or business launch, this course covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing, finance, legal, regulatory issues, operations, information based planning and management are key components of this workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included. Live examples of effective business plans are used as course material.

Speaker: Jan Fokens, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, the course, covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing and finance, legal and regulatory issues, operations, and information based planning and management are key components of the workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included along with a demonstration of the MI-SBTDC online business plan tool.

Speaker: SBTDC Staff

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, or business launch, this course covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing, finance, legal, regulatory issues, operations, information based planning and management are key components of this workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included. Live examples of effective business plans are used as course material.

Speaker: Marie Elliott, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

Statistics show that one of the leading causes of business failure is poor management and lack of planning. Those who spend six months or more planning their business will significantly increase their success rate. Creating a business plan helps you set goals, determine the resources needed to carry out your plan, and foresee problems. A comprehensive business plan will determine if your business product, service or idea is feasible. This three-hour course will discuss each section of a business plan: Company overview, Operations, Marketing, Sales, Financials and Executive Summary. Pre-registration and payment is required. Please register on-line at www.misbtdc.org/region11.

Designed for individuals who want to increase their chances for successful self-employment, or business launch, this course covers business planning in detail. Specifics of marketing, finance, legal, regulatory issues, operations, information-based planning and management are key components of this workshop. The first steps for creating a business plan draft will be included. Live examples of effective business plans are used as course material. Second class in the MI-SBTDC Entrepreneurial Series.

Speaker: Tim Lake, Certified Small Business Consultant

Designed for those who want to increase the chances for business success, this seminar covers business planning in detail including steps for creating a business plan draft. Kettering University Campus Center, Room 5-200.

Speaker: Region 6 MI-SBTDC Staff

If you are considering an online business or have recently launched your own enterprise, this crash course in the “essentials” is a positive next step. Explore the risks, rewards, methods, and special challenges of setting up shop online. What products lend themselves to internet sales? How do you establish a webstore, a shopping cart, and a merchant account? And what about handling accounting, inventory management, packaging, and shipping? Learn the fundamentals of online selling including marketing, search engine optimization, and other key elements for getting your products out in front of potential buyers. Consider do-it-yourself solutions vs. professional support. And, yes, there will be time for questions and discussion.

Speaker: Jordan Lindberg

This workshop provides the business owner an in-depth look at the essentials of using financial information to make effective decisions about improving their business performance. Topics discussed include identifying problems using your balance sheet and income statement, providing ways to increase your company's cash flow, using breakeven analysis to improve decision-making, planning working capital to support your growth, and how to keep your banker on your side. * * You will need to bring 3 years of financial statements with you to this workshop. * *

Many small businesses face obstacles when trying to obtain a business loan. The recognition of the serious need for working capital for existing businesses, start-up or expansion, equipment purchases, and job creation is not the priority it once was. If you have a need for alternative financing consider the MicroLoan Program. Discover the requirements and process necessary to apply and obtain a microloan.

Before you apply for a business loan, first attend a free financing roundtable. We’ll debunk the myths and demystify the process of small business financing. The “team” is a banker, an SBA representative, an SBA business counselor, and business owners like you. You’ll get first hand information on what credit criteria your banker has. The team will answer all of your financing questions and give you advice on what steps to take to achieve your goal of starting or expanding a business. We’ll explain how the SBA loan guarantee can work for you. The roundtables are best suited for those who have good credit, a solid business idea, and some money to invest in the business. The sessions are free, but you must register as some may be cancelled due to low registration. SBA does not provide loan guarantees to real estate investment companies.

Speaker: SBA Staff

This seminar introduces the basics of financial management, including how to start an accounting system and how to apply the information from key financial statements to help you manage your business. Accounting language including debits and credits, preparation of the balance sheet and profit & loss statement are explained. Cash flow analysis and breakeven are also covered with specific small business examples.

Speaker: Robert Madigan, Business Counselor

“Fundamentals of Financial Management” workshop is designed specifically to assist business owners in gaining a better understanding of financial reports and basic financial management as a tool for better decision-making. There is no charge for the workshop but advance registration is required. See below. The workshop will cover accounting systems and how to apply the information from key financial statements to help you manage your business. Accounting language including debits and credits, preparation of the balance sheet and profit & loss statement will be reviewed. Cash flow analysis and breakeven are also covered with specific small business examples.

Speaker: Staff of Lewis & Knopf, CPAs, PC.

As an introductory seminar, the course covers the basics of financial management, including how to start an accounting system and how to apply the information from key financial statements to help you manage your business. Accounting language including debits and credits, preparation of the balance sheet and profit & loss statement are explained. Cash flow analysis and breakeven are also covered with specific small business examples.

Speaker: Staff

A workshop designed to provide business owners tools and resources to create a package to present to bankers for refinancing or restructuring their financing. Financing structure, lending parameters and bank analysis methods will be discussed.

Speaker: SBTDC

Will you be seeking bank financing in the near future? Get the inside scoop from the SBA and local financial institutions on what criteria they are looking for from you! Have your questions answered directly by a team of experts. This course covers how loan applications are analyzed, what bankers require for approval and how banking regulations affect decisions. If you are opening a business or looking to grow your business, this is the workshop for you! The SBA will also discuss the status of lending in Michigan and different types of loan programs. Pre-registration is required. Register on-line at www.misbtdc.org/region11. This course is designed for new and existing small business owners, and lending professionals in the bank financing industry, who are interested in learning about lending in today's market.

If you are serious about seeking financing for your business, you owe it to yourself to attend a Financing Roundtable presented by TEAM SBA. TEAM SBA consists of a preferred SBA lender, a business consultant, SBA economic development staff, and business owners like you. We'll debunk the myths and demystify the process of bank financing - in plain English. You will learn how your loan application will be analyzed, what underwriting criteria is used, and how banking regulations affect the decision. We will answer your questions based upon your business model. Over the last seven years, TEAM SBA has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs gain a better understanding of the financing process. In order to help you, we require you to have good credit, a solid business idea and some money to invest in your business. Please note: The SBA does not provide loan guarantees to real estate investment firms and this type of financing is not discussed at the roundtables. Locally sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center.

Speaker: Cathy Gase, SBA; Nancy Grose, SBA

If you are serious about seeking financing for your business, you owe it to yourself to attend a Financing Roundtable presented by TEAM SBA. TEAM SBA consists of a preferred SBA lender, a business consultant, SBA economic development staff, and business owners like you. We'll debunk the myths and demystify the process of bank financing - in plain English. You will learn how your loan application will be analyzed, what underwriting criteria is used, and how banking regulations affect the decision. We will answer your questions based upon your business model. Over the last seven years, TEAM SBA has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs gain a better understanding of the financing process. In order to help you, we require you to have good credit, a solid business idea and some money to invest in your business. Please note: The SBA does not provide loan guarantees to real estate investment firms and this type of financing is not discussed at the roundtables. Locally sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center.

The course provides an introduction to the different types of legal entities that are appropriate for structuring and starting a new business. Tax and liability issues are covered, along with basic elements of a contract, collections, licenses, registrations, employment and property issues, leasing and insurance. It is designed to guide prospective business owners in setting up the organizational structure that will help protect them from unnecessary legal challenges.

Speaker: John Carter, Esq.

This course is an introduction to the different types of legal entities that are appropriate for structuring and starting a new business. Tax and liability issues are covered, along with basic elements of a contract, collections, licenses, registrations, employment and property issues, leasing and insurance. It is designed to guide prospective business owners in setting up the organizational structure that will help protect them from unnecessary legal challenges.

Speaker: John Carter, Esq. and Lori K. Bianco, CPA

I can fire whomever I want to! Employment is At-Will, right? If you have ever thought this to yourself, you are wrong! This seminar is designed to increase your knowledge on what the real truth is about Employment-At-Will -- can you ever really terminate an employee based on Employment-At-Will? You will learn where Employment-At-Will language should be used in employee documents, parameters on how to terminate employees, and gain an awareness of the discrimination lawsuit process and the high cost associated with poorly executed terminations. This seminar will be presented jointly by Julie Mann, SPHR, who is the CEO & President of JMann Consulting Group, LLC. and brings over 25 years of experience in the discipline of Human Resources, and Stephen Schultz, a partner with the law firm of Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC. Steve brings over 30 years of experience to the representation of management in labor and employment law matters. Cost is $25.00. Please call 517-483-9853 to register.

Speaker: Julie Mann, and Stephen Schultz

Sessions will be held from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm on 9/10, 9/17, & 9/24/2010 Register and pay now to secure a seat in this highly popular workshop, limited spaces available! The $129.00 fee covers all three sessions and is non-refundable. This workshop will be held at Mid Michigan Communtiy College Doan Center Room 127. Content covered in the complete program will include: o Everyday transactions o Analyzing financial data o Setting up inventory o Tracking and paying sales tax o Payroll o Estimating and progress invoicing o Customizing forms and writing QuickBooksTM letters o Accountants review, backup and portable file

Speaker: Jan Garver

Learn basic accounting terminology and principles for record keeping and the preparation of essential financial statements. Discover how to summarize the activities of a business through journal entries and understand how these activities lead to the preparation of income statements and balance sheets. This class is helpful prior to learning accounting software like QuickBooks or Quicken and is partially underwritten by SBTDC. Required text, “Bookkeeping Made Simple”, is available at NMC Bookstore (995-1285).

Speaker: Jim Bertoldi

Fiscal Fitness – Sponsored by Fifth Third Bank – Cost Free This workshop gives small business owners an in-depth look at the essentials of using financial information to make effective business decisions. Topics include how to: improve cash flow, use balance sheets and income statements to diagnose problems/opportunities, understand breakeven analysis and make better pricing/investment decisions, ensure you have enough working capital to support growth and keep your banker on your side. Presented by Teresa Sickles, CPA and MI-SBTDC Business Consultant. Date: September 16 (Thurs 9-12) at WMU Haworth College of Business-Schneider Hall

Learn how to set up your company on QuickBooks for your small business accounting. You’ll learn to create and print invoices, receipts, and statements, track your payables, inventory, and receivables, create estimates, and generate reports. There will be plenty of time for questions about QuickBooks. Prerequisite: a working knowledge of Windows and basic keyboarding skills. The cost of this course is partially underwritten by SBTDC.

Speaker: Holly Finch

This introduction to small business financial management provides an overview of accurate recordkeeping, report interpretation and utilization, and management of the variety of tools provided in this system. QuickBooks® Essentials I covers: • Basic accounting terminology • New company file setup • Customizing forms and letters • Working with bank accounts

Speaker: Stacey Kildal - Kildal Services, LLC

This introduction to small business financial management provides an overview of accurate recordkeeping, report interpretation and utilization, and management of the variety of tools provided in this system. QuickBooks® Essentials Part II covers: • Invoicing customers • Receiving payments & making deposits • Entering vendor bills/paying vendor bills • Using credit card accounts

Speaker: Stacey Kildal - Kildal Services, LLC

Topics include: Worker Classification (Employee vs. Independent Contractor), Information Returns (940, 941, 1099, W-2), Employer's Obligations and Record Keeping.

Speaker: Linda Geary, CPA

This course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to grow small businesses. It covers basic marketing tools, including market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors, and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well planned approach to marketing is demonstrated, with several examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques. Focus is on the customers of the business -- creating and keeping them.

Speaker: Rene Stephan, Business Consultant

When should you buy merchandise for the holidays? What quantity? What is your pricing policy? Seasonal or holiday retail management revolves around specially orchestrated promotions that have a significant impact on product demand and sales. In this seminar you will review how to calculate inventory turns, when to do markdowns, how to track sales and place buying according to category, and how to take advantage of seasonal environments, and holiday preparation. Ron Stevens, retail marketing expert and MI-SBTDC Senior Business Consultant, will be presenting. Ron has worked around the country with retail giants Marshalls and K-Mart. He brings extensive knowledge about destination and experiential retailing. Retail Management: Seasonal Success is an advanced class for owners and buyers of small to mid-size retail stores.

Speaker: Ron Stevens, MI-SBTDC Senior Business Consultant

You're up and running, right? And still busting your butt, but not getting the results you want? You're asking yourself, "Is this it? What am I missing? Learn the secrets and skills that will give you a tremendous competitive edge and dramatically improve your income! Agenda: Learn how to give an effective 60 second elevator pitch Learn valuable networking tips and how to network effectively and Get invited in!

Speaker: Denise Roberts, Sales Partners-Troy

The course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to help small businesses grow. It covers basic marketing tools including market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors, and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well planned approach to marketing is demonstrated with several examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques.

Speaker: Staff

Using the internet effectively is a critical piece of many small businesses' marketing strategies. Learn about pay-per-click campaigns, search engine optimization, social media, blogs, podcasts and more in this information-packed session. Cut through the hype and learn which of these tools can help you grow your business.

Speaker: Shannon Beeman, MI-SBTDC Business Consultant

Third class in the MI-SBTDC Entrepreneurial Series, this course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to grow small businesses. It covers basic marketing tools including market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors, and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well-planned approach to maketing is demonstrated, with several examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques. Focus is on creating and keeping customers for the business.

Speaker: Tim Lake, Certified Small Business Consultant

Marketing is the key to building awareness of your business. Having a clearly defined marketing plan is essential to the growth and success of any business. Learn the fundamentals of marketing and the primary tools for any business to secure its spot in the marketplace. Key topics covered include: importance of marketing, the marketing concept, basic aspects of a marketing plan, and available resources. This seminar is for business owners, sales consultants, entrepreneurs, and innovators.

Speaker: Kris McArdle, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center at Tech Town will host monthly 8(a) Business Development programs that help minority small businesses gain a foothold in government contracting. Upon enrollment in this program, firms receive information on finding contracts, proposal preparation, and contract administration. The monthly pre-qualification meetings will be held on the first Wednesday of each month from 9 am - noon at Tech Town.

Speaker: SBA Staff

This full day workshop is designed for participants seeking to open a successful business incubator. Participants will work through the feasibility of the business incubator concept. Topics covered include: Incubator business management, business plan development; how to market and determine financial start-up requirements.

Speaker: Ms. Sandra Cochrane, MI-SBTDC Technology Consultant and Board Member with the National Business Incubator Association and Mr. Harry Blecker, MI-SBTDC Senior Business/Incubator Consultant.

Fiscal Management Tools for the Non-financial Manager -- This workshop provides the business owner an in-depth look at the essentials of using financial information to make effective decisions about improving their business performance. Who should attend: CEOs of businesses with at least three years of financial history who want to have a better understanding of how financial statements can inform their business decisions. Topics include: Ways to improve your company's cash flow, how to use the balance sheet and income statement to diagnose business problems and opportunities, how breakeven analysis helps you make better pricing and investment decisions, how to ensure you have enough working capital to support growth, and how to keep your banker on your side. Agenda: 8:30 - registration and light refreshments 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM - program

FastTrac® New Venture™ is an intensive, 10-week program that helps you evaluate business opportunities and develop an action plan for owning your own business. Written by entrepreneurs for aspiring entrepreneurs, FastTrac® New Venture™ offers essential business information to help you develop your entrepreneurial skills and build your business on a strong foundation. FastTrac® NewVenture™ provides the opportunity to objectively evaluate your concept and plans for moving forward, begin building an infrastructure for your business operations and processes, understand how to access the human, financial and business resources, and build an actionable business plan.

Speaker: SBTDC Staff

An orientation session required to register for the Fast Trac® Courses in Lenawee, and Jackson Counties. This half day session will orient you to the Fast Trac® program and what commitment will be required of you as the entrepreneur. At this session you will spend time with an advisor who will help you select, and enroll in the Fast Trac® entrepreneurial program best suited for you and your business. This orientation session is required to enroll in any FastTrac program in Jackson and Lenawee Counties. There's no substitute for experience. Nothing proves better than Fast Trac® a program facilitated by entrepreneurs who are not only knowledgeable but have a proven ability to connect with people. They create an environment that encourages you to interact with other entrepreneurs - gaining insight from their experiences and establishing relationships.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Counselors

FastTrac® New Venture (TM) ORIENTATION is a 2-hour seminar that will provide an overview of the course content and personal commitment necessary to participate in the licensed training, FastTrac® New Venture (TM). This orientation is one of two pre-requisites for participation in the 10 module course that will meet one day each week for seven weeks providing essential business information to help you develop your entrepreneurial skills and build your business on a strong foundation. PRE-REQUISITES to participating in FastTrac® New Venture (TM). 1) Attend a FastTrac New Venture Orientation session. 2) Attend one of SBTDC’s “Fundamentals of Starting a Business” or "Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan" seminars Schedules and online registration for both of these trainings/events are listed in the SBTDC Events calendar at www.misbtdc.org. FastTrac® New Venture (TM) was written by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. It is designed to help you: Objectively evaluate your concept and plans for moving forward; begin building an infrastructure for your business operations and processes; understand how to access the human, financial and business resources; and build an actionable business plan. Next scheduled sesssions of FastTrac® New Venture (TM) in Region 6: September 21 through November 2, 2010

Speaker: Kaufman Foundation Certified FastTrac Facilitators

Participants in this no cost session will acquire an overview of the FastTrac NewVenture program’s key objectives, benefits and features. They will learn how this program assists entrepreneurs to develop a business concept through each step of the business planning process. Recommended to attend prior to beginning FastTrac NewVenture 10-week Series.

FastTrac GrowthVenture (Venture Forward) is an intensive, 10-week program designed for owners, CEOs and top management team members of businesses with at least two years of operating experience. Focused on issues most important to business health and growth, attendees gain knowledge to make critical decisions about their business and strategy, investigate next-stage growth and opportunity, plan for strategic growth, build and maintain a competitive advantage and maximize cash flow for profitability.

Speaker: SBTDC counselors

FastTrac® New Venture (TM) ORIENTATION is a 2-hour seminar that will provide an overview of the course content and personal commitment necessary to participate in the licensed training, FastTrac® New Venture (TM). This orientation is one of two pre-requisites for participation in the 10 module course that will meet one day each week for seven weeks providing essential business information to help you develop your entrepreneurial skills and build your business on a strong foundation. PRE-REQUISITES to participating in FastTrac® New Venture (TM). 1) Attend a FastTrac New Venture Orientation session. 2) Attend one of SBTDC’s “Fundamentals of Starting a Business” or "Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan" seminars Schedules and online registration for both of these trainings/events are listed in the SBTDC Events calendar at www.misbtdc.org. FastTrac® New Venture (TM) was written by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. It is designed to help you: Objectively evaluate your concept and plans for moving forward; begin building an infrastructure for your business operations and processes; understand how to access the human, financial and business resources; and build an actionable business plan. Currently scheduled sesssions of FastTrac® New Venture (TM) in Region 8: September 17, 2010 through November 19, 2010.

Speaker: Kaufman Foundation Certified FastTrac Facilitators

Fast Trac* New Venture* is an intensive, 10-week program that helps you evaluate business opportunities and develop an action plan for owning your own business. There's no substitute for experience. Nothing proves better than Fast Trac® a program facilitated by entrepreneurs who are not only knowledgeable but have a proven ability to connect with people. They create an environment that encourages you to interact with other entrepreneurs - gaining insight from their experiences and establishing relationships. The cost for this course is $700, currently there are $650.00 scholarships available through the MEDC and LEDC. *Fast Trac and New Venture are trademarks

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant Cathie Abad

10 week start-up entrepreneurial program: FastTrac® New Venture™ is a practical, hands-on business development workshop to help entrepreneurs hone the skills needed to create, manage, and grow a successful business. FastTrac® New Venture™ participants don't just learn about business, they live it. Participants learn in a variety of ways including standard classroom lecture, small group activities, guest speakers and individual counseling from MI-SBTDC facilitators. Attendees work on their own business ideas/ventures throughout the program--moving their ventures to reality or new levels of growth by creating a business plan and learning about the core fundamentals of how to create a successful business. FastTrac® is one of America's leading entrepreneurial training programs and remains on the cutting edge by providing programs that are written by entrepreneurs, facilitated by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs. Dates: September 15– November 17, Wednesdays from 9-12 noon FastTrac Eligibility: Each attendee is required to participate in the following to receive the MEDC workshop discount: (1) Attend the FTNV Orientation session on either August 16 from 9-11 AM or August 25 from 2-4 PM. (2) Attend one MI-SBTDC class for business start up prior to the FTNV class start date of September 15. MI-SBTDC classes can be located on the MI-SBTDC web site under the training tab. www.misbtdc.org/region11

Fast Trac* New Venture* is an intensive, 6-week program that helps you evaluate business opportunities and develop an action plan for owning your own business. There's no substitute for experience. Nothing proves better than Fast Trac® a program facilitated by entrepreneurs who are not only knowledgeable but have a proven ability to connect with people. They create an environment that encourages you to interact with other entrepreneurs - gaining insight from their experiences and establishing relationships. The cost for this course is $700, currently there are $650.00 scholarships available through the MEDC and LEDC. *Fast Trac and New Venture are trademarks

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant Cathie Abad

FastTrac NewVenture is an intensive, 10-week program that helps you evaluate business opportunities and develop an action plan for owning your own business. Written by entrepreneurs for aspiring entrepreneurs, FastTrac NewVenture offers essential business information to help you develop your entrepreneurial skills and build your business on a strong foundation. FastTrac NewVenture provides the opportunity to objectively evaluate your concept and plans for moving forward, begin building an infrastructure for your business operations and processes, understand how to access the human, financial and business resources, and build an actionable business plan. **Due to the financial support from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, eligible Kent County residents will pay a reduced rate of $100. Those who are not Kent County residents may be eligible for other financial assistance.**

FastTrac® New Venture (TM) is a 7 module course that will meet one day each week for ten weeks providing essential business information to help you develop your entrepreneurial skills and build your business on a strong foundation. PRE-REQUISITES to participating in FastTrac® New Venture (TM). 1) Attend a FastTrac New Venture Orientation session. 2) Attend one of SBTDC’s “Fundamentals of Starting a Business” or "Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan" seminars Schedules and online registration for both of these trainings/events are listed in the SBTDC Events calendar at www.misbtdc.org. FastTrac® New Venture (TM) was written by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. It is designed to help you: Objectively evaluate your concept and plans for moving forward; begin building an infrastructure for your business operations and processes; understand how to access the human, financial and business resources; and build an actionable business plan. Currently scheduled sesssions of FastTrac® New Venture (TM) in Region 8: September 17, 2010 through November 19, 2010.

Speaker: Kaufman Foundation Certified FastTrac Facilitators

Boot Camp to Start New Businesses - This 9-session program takes place over a 10-week period and is designed to test your business idea, broaden your understanding of business, plan your financial needs to avoid cash flow problems, structure your business operations for efficiency, and develop entrepreneurial skills through a practical, hands-on approach. Participants will work on their own business ideas or ventures throughout the program—moving them from concept to reality or to new levels of growth in just a few weeks! Prior to beginning the class, interested students must have attended an Entrepreneurial Series ... Fundamentals of Starting a Business seminar that is offered throughout the state at no-cost. Course valued at $700 is being offered for $100 (NON-REFUNDABLE). Class size is limited - register early. Registration and full payment deadline is September 10, 2010.

Speaker: Deb Wieland, Certified Facilitator and local experts

Written by entrepreneurs for aspiring entrepreneurs, FastTrac® NewVenture™ offers essential business information to help you develop your entrepreneurial skills and build your business on a strong foundation. In Region 6 (Flint) this comprehensive course is taught over 7 weeks, meeting one day each week. This course is designed to give you the opportunity to: Objectively evaluate your concept and plans for moving forward; begin building an infrastructure for your business operations and processes; understand how to access the human, financial and business resources; and build an actionable business plan. NOTE: There are two PRE-REQUISITES to participating in FastTrac® New Venture (TM). 1) Attend a FastTrac New Venture Orientation session. 2) Attend SBTDC’s “Fundamentals of Starting a Business” or "Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan" training There are multiple dates and statewide locations available to take the pre-requisites as well as FastTrac NewVenture course. Schedules and online registration for all can be found in the SBTDC Events calendar at www.misbtdc.org.

Speaker: Kaufman Foundation Certified FastTrac Facilitators

For FastTrac New Venture Graduates only: Join your FastTrac peers for Networking, Information and Inspiration: Wednesday evening, September 29, 2010, 6 P.M.- 8 P.M. at Tech Town (Refreshments at 5:30 P.M.. No fee to attend, space is limited, please register as soon as possible. Reconnect and Refresh your Vision; Assess your Options and Next Steps: The FastTrac New Venture Entrepreneurial Training Program that you atteded is only one of the many steps on the road to successful business ownership. In addition, to help you succeed, the MI-SBTDC offers a host of free resources and services to aspiring entrepreneurs like you, that include confidential one-on-one consulting, market research, loan packaging, and assistance with developing business, marketing and financial plans.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Staff

FastTrac® Growth Venture is an intensive, 10-week program designed for owners, CEOs and top management team members of businesses with at least two years of operating experience. Focused on issues most important to business health and growth, attendees gain knowledge to make critical decisions about their business and strategy, investigate next-stage growth and opportunity, plan for strategic growth, build and maintain a competitive advantage and maximize cash flow for profitability.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC counselors

BBCetc will conduct this half-day workshop covering the SBIR/STTR program basics, including: program purpose; eligibility; and sources of funding. The course is targeted to a broad audience that is still exploring the SBIR/STTR program. It is designed to provide enough information for attendees to determine if they would like to seriously pursue proposal development. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Technology-based entrepreneurs and small companies seeking funding for R&D WHY ATTEND? To learn the basics about this $2.3 billion dollar federal funding program To determine if your company and opportunity are suitable and eligible for this source of non-dilutive funding TOPICS COVERED Overview of the federal SBIR/STTR program Federal agency sources of funding Eligibility for funding Tools to help you do your homework and strategic planning prior to proposal preparation

Speaker: BBCetc - Andy Jakimcius

Thursday, September 23, 2010, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm AND Friday, September 24, 2010, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm BBCetc presents this one and one half day proposal preparation seminar focused on National Science Foundation(NSF). Agenda: Day 1 morning: SBIR/STTR Program Overview and Requirements Day 1 afternoon: Detailed Proposal Preparation Day 2 morning: Registration Requirments and Commercialization WHO SHOULD ATTEND? •Technology-based entrepreneurs and small companies seeking funding for R&D with plans to submit a proposal within the next 12 months WHY ATTEND? •To receive detailed instruction on preparing each component of a proposal •To get current information on the SBIR/STTR program and the agency’s proposal submission processes •To ensure that you have all of the tools and information necessary to prepare a competitive proposal TOPICS COVERED: •Strategic Planning – First, Do Your Homework •SBIR/STTR program details •Technological innovation and commercial merit – what this really means •Strategies for targeting your proposal to meet Agency’s mission and requirements •How to do your intelligence work prior to writing the proposal •Proposal Development -- Crafting a Fundable Proposal – Details on the proposal preparation process. (This is not just a basic research grant!) •Planning tools for writing the proposal •The SBIR/STTR review process – learn how to write the proposal to meet the reviewers’ expectations •Step-by-step process on how to write each section of a SBIR/STTR proposal •Common problems and pitfalls and how to avoid them •Preparing a Commercialization Plan - Good technology is necessary but not sufficient. A strong commercialization strategy is a critical element in successful SBIR/STTR proposals. •Proposal Submission – Detailed information you need to be prepared for a successful submission. •Post-Award Administration – What to do once you learn you are going to be funded (and what to do next if you learn you are not)

Speaker: Andy Jakimcius

Biotechnology Business Consultants is conducting a two day intensive SBIR/STTR propsal preparation workshop focused on proposals to NIH. Thursday, September 30, 2010 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Friday, October 1, 2010 9:00 am - 4:00 pm *Location may change within Ann Arbor This session will include both technical and commercialization plans and proposal submission procedures. Differences between agencies are addressed. Core principles of preparing fundable SBIR/STTR proposals are stressed. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Life science focused and technology-based entrepreneurs and small companies seeking funding for R&D with plans to submit a SBIR/STTR proposal within the next 12 months. WHY ATTEND? To receive detailed instruction on preparing each component of a proposal To get current information on the SBIR/STTR program and the agency’s proposal submission processes To ensure that you have all of the tools and information necessary to prepare a competitive proposal TOPICS COVERED: - Strategic Planning – First, Do Your Homework - SBIR/STTR program details - Technological innovation and commercial merit – what this really means - Strategies for targeting your proposal to meet Agency’s mission and requirements - How to do your intelligence work prior to writing the proposal - Proposal Development -- Crafting a Fundable Proposal - Planning tools for writing the proposal - The SBIR/STTR review process – learn how to write the proposal to meet the reviewers’ expectations - Step-by-step process on how to write each section of a SBIR/STTR proposal - Common problems and pitfalls and how to avoid them - Preparing a Commercialization Plan - Good science is necessary but not sufficient. A strong commercialization strategy is a critical element in successful SBIR/STTR proposals. - Proposal Submission – Detailed information you need to be prepared for a successful submission. - Post-Award Administration – What to do once you learn you are going to be funded (and what to do next if you learn you are not)

Speaker: Lisa Kurek