Events/Workshops

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.

Speaker: Susan Bates, Business Counselor

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: Nancy Benaske, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

THIS CLASS IS FULL. PLEASE DO NOT REGISTER. THE NEXT CLASS WILL BE HELD ON 3/10 from 7-9 PM at KPL. Discover resources available that can help you make informed decisions about your business’ future. The Kalamazoo Public Library will share their techniques in collecting information on what industry trends might affect you, information to estimate the size of your market, potential customers and competitors, related associations, and other information that will impact your business. Business Research classes are presented by Ryan Gage and held at the Kalamazoo Public Library. Preregistration is required. Please call 269-387-6004 with any questions. Please call 269-387-6004 with questions.

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 or 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

Fourth Week: Accounting; Benchmarks

Speaker: Geri Phelps, David Sayers

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 via charge card is required. Please call 269-387-6004 with any questions.

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

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 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

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 or 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

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 product/services. The basics of business ownership are introduced along with resources available to help launch new ventures in Michigan.

Speaker: Tim Lake

Fifth Week: Customer Service

Speaker: Phil Wrzesinski, Susan Franck, Roni Weaver

The Chelsea District Library will be creating a "living library" of people with unique knowledge on various business topics including: finance, human resources, law, marketing along with experienced business counselors. Each will introduce themselves and their areas of expertise and attendees will have the opportunity to "check out" these experts for a short one-on-one consultation. This is an opportunity get your questions answered by skilled professionals in any area.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Counselors

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

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

THIS CLASS IS FULL. PLEASE DO NOT REGISTER. THE NEXT STARTING A BUSINESS CLASS WILL BE HELD ON 3/17/10 FROM 6-8 PM AT THE PORTAGE DISTRICT LIBRARY. Learn the steps to starting your own business. This two-hour workshop, taught by an 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. Preregistration is required. Please call 269-387-6004 with any questions.

Do you dream of starting a business but don’t know where to begin? 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. Topics discussed include sources of assistance, market research, financing, business partners, taxes, record keeping, and more.

Speaker: Cathie Abad, MI-SBTDC Business Consultant

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. To register: www.misbtdc.org/region11, training tab to training calendar Please call 269-387-6004 with questions or for more information

Sixth Week: Human Resources

Speaker: Phil Wrzesinski, and tbd

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

Designed for persons thinking of starting a business or in or 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

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

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. To register: www.misbtdc.org/region11, training tab to training calendar Please call 269-387-6004 with questions or for more information

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; Grace A Dow Memorial Library Librarian Representative

Seventh Week - Resource Panel of Entrepreneurs

Speaker: panel

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.

Speaker: Susan Bates, Business Counselor

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

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: Nancy Benaske, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

Fundamentals of Business Research – Cost: Free Dates: February 10 (Wed 7-9 PM) Discover resources available that can help you make informed decisions about your business’ future. The Kalamazoo Public Library will share their techniques in collecting information on what industry trends might affect you, information to estimate the size of your market, potential customers and competitors, related associations, and other information that will impact your business.

Speaker: Ryan Gage, KPL Please call 269-387-6004 for more information.

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

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: Jeri Hopper

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, 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. Examples of effective business plans are used as course material.

Speaker: Donald Morandini, Regional Director

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: 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.

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: 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, 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: 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 via charge card is required: To Register: www.misbtdc.org/region11. Please call 269-387-6004 with questions. $25 for chamber members / $30 for non-chamber members.

Speaker: Tamara Davis

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: 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: MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

Fiscal management tools for the non-financial manager, CEO or owner. This workshop provides the business owner with an in-depth look at essential financial information for making effective performance decisions. For businesses with at least 3 years of financial history. Topics include: • Identifying problems using your Balance Sheet and Income Statement • Proven ways to increase your company’s cash flow • Using breakeven analysis to improve decision-making • Planning the working capital to support your growth • Keeping the banker on your side

Speaker: David Sayers, MI-SBTDC Financial Specialist

Team SBA is a round table session where you can learn what is required from a lender. You’ll have opportunities to meet business counselors who can help you prepare your loan request for the bank and chances to network with other business owners. Before you apply for a business loan, first attend this free financing roundtable. We will debunk the myths and demystify the process of small business financing. The “team” is a bank, an SBA representative, an SBA business counselor, and business owners like you. You will get first hand information on what credit criteria your banker had. 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 will 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.

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

Who should attend??? Anyone who would like to have a better understanding of how financial statements can inform their business decisions. Topics will 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 you banker on your side! Special Offer: Participants in this workshop will receive priority access to the MI-SBTDC Fiscal Fitness Counseling Program which helps you make an in-depth analysis of your own business financials. Cost: Thanks to the support and generosity of the Fifth Third Foundation, we are able to eliminate the normal program fee of $75.00 and offer this seminar for FREE!!!

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.

Whether starting, expanding, or redirecting a business, funding will probably be required. This seminar will review various funding sources and provide an overview of what's required to get that funding.

Speaker: Tom Donaldson, Regional Director

Whether starting, expanding, or redirecting a business, funding will probably be required. This seminar will review various funding sources and provide an overview of what's required to get that funding.

Speaker: Tom Donaldson, Regional Director

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. Room 205

Speaker: Curt Rypma, Schenk Boncher & Rypma

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 informative legal course will cover these small business topics: Introduction to different types of legal entities, how to start a business from a legal standpoint, review of basic contract elements, how to develop a collection plan in the event you are not paid, basic introduction of common employment issues, overall review of real property and zoning issues related to business operations and an overview of insurance needs. Preregistration and payment via charge card is required prior to class start date. Please call 269-387-6004 with any questions.

Learn about the benefits and process of becoming a Women's Business Enterprise (WBE). Benefits include certification to private sector WBE's and access to procurement opportunities with major national companies. For additional information visit www.miceed.org.

Speaker: Michigan Women's Business Council

There is no charge for this program and all information compiled and discussed is confidential. Lighted parking is available at the rear of the building and refreshments will be served. Contact: Sheila Jackson Jefferson East Business Association 14628 Jefferson Detroit, MI 48215 (313) 331-7939 ext.303 sjackson@jeffersoneast.org

Employers are constantly challenged to keep up with the demands and changes in Human Resource laws and the start of a new year is a great opportunity for employers to “tune up” their human resource practices. Part 2 of “HR School” will cover hiring practices, pay decisions, harassment, performance appraisals, discipline and termination. HR School Part 1 and Part 2 were designed to provide participants with basic “survival skills” necessary to navigate human resources legislation, employee rights, and good management practice. The workshops are designed for the small employer with only a few employees, or one large enough to have with a dedicated HR staff, and for all levels of management or HR staff. Sponsored by Region 6 Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center (MI-SBTDC) at Kettering University, 1700 University Avenue, Campus Center Room A on the 4th floor, Flint, MI 48504. There is no charge for the workshops but advance registration is required.

Speaker: Marc Rideout, President, Corporate Human Resource Solutions, Inc.,

Beginning QuickBooks- Cost: $145 Date: February 17th from 8:30am – 4:00pm (30 minutes for lunch) Instructor-led, hands-on certified QuickBooks curriculum course. Each participant will have their own computer and QuickBooks guide (guide is the attendees to keep). Class size is limited to nine people to ensure a one-on-one learning environment. Participants will learn how to set up and manage company files; develop customer, employee and vendor lists; receive payments; manage checking and credit card accounts; set up inventory and learn shortcuts and new features. Course presenters are CPA’s/Certified QuickBooks instructors and experts using the program. Registration and Payment: Contact the PDTC at 269-492-1460 or email at careertraining@pdtc.biz. Payment by credit card or check due prior to class starting date. Class held at the PDTC on 808 S. Westnedge just south of Vine Street next to Bagel Beanery. Sponsored by the MI-SBTDC Region 11.

Receive hands-on training in electronic bookkeeping using QuickBooks Simple Start software. You will learn the benefits of this financial management software and receive a free copy of the software with no expiration. Topics covered include an introduction to financial management and why accounts are important. This software provides just the essentials. It won't overwhelm simple businesses with tools they don't need. QuickBooks can help you track your sales and expenses, create professional-looking invoices and receipts, and automatically track tax-related income and expenses.

Speaker: Tim Lake

Fiscal Fitness – Cost $30 Date: March 2 (Tuesday 9-12 noon) @ WMU Haworth College of Business-Schneider Hall This workshop gives business owners an in-depth look at the essentials of using financial information to make effective business decisions that help improve company performance. The workshop is designed for CEO’s/Managers, with three or more years of financial history, who want to have a better understanding of how financial statements can help them make key decisions. Topics covered include ways to improve your company’s cash flow, how to use a balance sheet and income statement to diagnose business problems and opportunities, understanding breakeven analysis and how it 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. Pre-registration is required: Register on-line at www.misbtdc.org/region11, please pay by credit card on-line prior to couse start date. Please call 269-387-6004 for more information.

Before you apply for a business loan, we recommend that you first attend a Financing Roundtable. The roundtables are a free loan orientation conducted by a business banker, a business consultant from the SBAs network of Small Business Development Centers, and an SBA representative. During the roundtable, well debunk the myths and demystify the process of small business financing. You'll learn how the lending process works and what is expected of you and you'll understand how the SBA can assist with our SBA Guaranteed Loan Program. This session is best suited to those who have good credit, a solid business idea, and some money to invest in their business. Because the SBA does not provide loan guarantees to real estate investment firms, including purchasing and rehabbing houses for sale, this type of financing is not discussed at the roundtables.

Speaker: SBA/BUSINESS BANKER/OAKLAND COUNTY BUSINESS COUNSELOR/OAKLAND COUNTY BUSINESS FINANCE CORPORATION LOAN OFFICER

Before you apply for a business loan, we recommend that you first attend a Financing Roundtable. The roundtables are a free loan orientation conducted by a business banker, a business consultant from the SBAs network of Small Business Development Centers, and an SBA representative. During the roundtable, well debunk the myths and demystify the process of small business financing. You'll learn how the lending process works and what is expected of you and you'll understand how the SBA can assist with our SBA Guaranteed Loan Program. This session is best suited to those who have good credit, a solid business idea, and some money to invest in their business. Because the SBA does not provide loan guarantees to real estate investment firms, including purchasing and rehabbing houses for sale, this type of financing is not discussed at the roundtables.

Speaker: SBA/BUSINESS BANKER/OAKLAND COUNTY BUSINESS COUNSELOR/OAKLAND COUNTY BUSINESS FINANCE CORPORATION LOAN OFFICER

Getting a small business loan can be a challenging process. Learn the "5 C's of Credit", how to develop a winning loan proposal and what you need to know to position your business to be "bankable" before you meet with a lender.

Speaker: SCORE/SBA

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.

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

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: Lola Are

Making money in your small business comes from understanding your customer; where they live, where they shop, and what they prefer to do in their times of leisure. Building a customer profile is essential to growing your small business, in this course you will use the research tools of the Washtenaw Community College's Biz Resource Center to gain an insight into your customer base. From the information gained in this session you will have an understanding of the marketing resources available to you the small business owner. To register please call: 734.973.3379

Speaker: WCC Business Librarian

The fast-growing skill of the small business owner is and will continue to be the use of knowledge. The more you understand about the competitions infrastructure, the more you can apply this knowledge to your benefit. Gaining an understanding of your competitor can also help you to understand the unique attributes or niche of your small business. In this course you will use the research tools of the Washtenaw Community College's Biz Resource Center to gain an insight into your competitors businesses. To register please call: 734.973.3379

Speaker: WCC Business Librarian

The second workshop in our sales and marketing series will focus on utilizing and reviewing the work that was done in the first session. Form this you will develop the content of the marketing tools that you will need to communicate your message to your target audience. We will also cover public relations, advertising, and marketing research. All of the work from the two workshops will be applied to a marketing plan outline.

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant Cathie Abad

This course will give the small business owner and salespeople an introduction to sales tools to help grow their business today and create a sales process for success. This hands-on approach to selling will provide the tools for implementation of prospecting, presenting and follow up, inspiring confidence and a comfort level for building sales effectiveness one step at a time. A practical, motivating course designed to improve sales whether you have a sales force of one or a team of many. Room 204

Speaker: Scott Kline, VP of Sales at WorkSquared

Does your company understand its strengths and use those to create a unified vision for management and employees? Learn how to create a strong foundation on which to diversify your company’s product and market portfolio. This workshop will guide you in understanding the current environment of your company, assessing external factors, seizing SWOT analysis opportunities, and exploring effective sales and marketing practices, financials and other metrics. The foundation work in this session would be used as a framework for determining the organization’s future strategies. 7:30-8:00 Continential Breakfast and sign-in 8:00-11:00 Hands-on workshop Pre-registration and payment is required. Register on-line at www.misbtdc.org/region11. Please call 269.387.6004 with questions. Location: Western Michigan University-Haworth College of Business, Schneider Hall. Conf. Room 3150. Park in Fetzer Center Lot 72F.

Speaker: Kathleen Hoyle, Vice President Business Development, Blue Strategies Group

This course presents a workshop approach to using practical applications of marketing concepts designed to grow small businesses. This workshop will challenge you to define your market, competitors, strengths and weaknesses, market position, and defining your brand. 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. Basic Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business is recommended prior to taking this workshop.

Speaker: Bill Smith, President of Compucraft & AAA Flow, Inc.

Does your company understand the customer need for your products and services? Ensuring that appropriate Information and data are available to support new innovation development is critical to creating a smooth flowing pipeline of ideas including that capture of internal,external, and voice of the customers data to provide streamlined reporting for making decisions and creating action. This session will include how to collect and find information on competitors, potential customers and new markets. 7:30-8:00 Continential Breakfast and sign-in 8:00-11:00 Hands-on workshop Pre-registration and payment is required. Register on-line at www.misbtdc.org/region11. Please call 269.387.6004 with questions. Location: Western Michigan University-Haworth College of Business, Schneider Hall. Conf. Room 3150. Park in Fetzer Center Lot 72F.

Speaker: Kathleen Hoyle, Vice President Business Development, Blue Strategies Group

Opening remarks by the Clinton County Economic Alliance • “Contracting 101” with the State of Michigan – Teaches vendors how to bid on State projects, & how to access free State resources. • Elements of a Quality Proposal with the State of Michigan - Teaches vendors the expectations of State bid proposals. • Services for Vendors from PTACs of Michigan – Procurement Technical Assistance Centers provide bid matching service, bid response assistance, research, & more • Services for Vendors from SBTDCs of Michigan – Small Business & Technology Development Centers provide business & marketing plan assistance, financial & organizational assessments & more. Buy Michigan First provides an outstanding opportunity for small businesses and under-represented vendor groups to learn about selling to the State of Michigan.

The Small Business Tour will bring resources right to the doorstep of companies with 5-25 employees. Participants will meet with a team of local small business development professionals including an accountant, attorney, commercial lender, business consultant and Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce leaders to focus on business issues important to their success. The meeting will take place at the participant's place of business and last for approximately one hour.

Speaker: An accountant, attorney, commercial lender, business consultant and Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce leaders

The purpose of Fiscal Fitness is to assist business owners understand and use their financial information to change and grow their company. The ideal participant in Fiscal Fitness will have 2-3 years of financial history, pursuing financing, challenges with cash flow or selling their business. Who should attend: CEOs of businesses with at least three years of financial history who want to have a better understanding of how to use their financial statements t o make better business decisions. Topics include: • Identifying problems using your Balance Sheet and Income Statement • Proven ways to increase your company’s cash flow • Using breakeven analysis to improve decision-making • Planning the working capital to support your growth • Keeping the banker on your side

Speaker: MI-SBTDC Consutlatns: Jim Rowley and Deb Wieland

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. The next 10 week FastTrac program will be held on Tuesday afternoons from 2 - 5 PM starting February 16 and running through April 27. Note that there will be no class on April 6. For more information, register online at www.misbtdc.org/training.

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 6: May 4 through June 15, 2010 September 21 through November 2, 2010

Speaker: Kaufman Foundation Certified FastTrac Facilitators

This two hour, no-cost orientation session is offered to prepare students for the 10-week FastTrac NewVenture course. Attending an orientation session is mandatory for acceptance into the FastTrac NewVenture course.

Speaker: Christine Greve / Deb Wieland

The FastTrac® New Venture™ orientation session will give attendees a detailed program overview and answer any questions prior to enrolling in the course. FastTrac® New Venture™ is a practical, hands-on business development program designed 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. They work on their own business ideas or ventures throughout the program--moving their ventures to reality or new levels of growth. 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. Pre-registration is required. To register: www.misbtdc.org/region11 or call 269.387.6004

An orientation session required to register for the Fast Trac® Courses in Washtenaw, Lenawee, Hillsdale, 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. 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 & Tech Counselors

This two hour, no-cost orientation session is offered to prepare students for the 10-week FastTrac NewVenture course. Attending one of these orientation sessions is mandatory for acceptance into the FastTrac NewVenture course.

Speaker: Christine Greve / Deb Wieland

This two hour, no-cost orientation session is offered to prepare students for the 10-week FastTrac NewVenture course. Attending one of these orientation sessions is mandatory for acceptance into the FastTrac NewVenture course.

Speaker: Christine Greve / Deb Wieland

The FastTrac® New Venture™ orientation session will give attendees a detailed program overview and answer any questions prior to enrolling in the course. FastTrac® New Venture™ is a practical, hands-on business development program designed 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. They work on their own business ideas or ventures throughout the program--moving their ventures to reality or new levels of growth. 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. Pre-registration is required. To register: www.misbtdc.org/region11 or call 269.387.6004

This 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 attend an orientation seminar for the FastTrac NewVenture program. In addition, they must attend a Fundamentals of Starting a Business class 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 March 1, 2010.

Speaker: Deb Wieland, Christine Greve

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

BBC is encouraging those who have significant experience with NIH SBIR/STTR proposals, to attend this half-day session that will cover changes to the research plan, supporting documents and forms. Please note – this session will focus on changes only. ( If you are new to NIH and/or SBIR, have only limited experience with NIH proposals, or haven’t attended training recently, this session is not for you) In order to receive one-on-one assistance you are required to attend at least one proposal preparation training course. If you have already attended a previous course and plan to apply this year you are not required to attend again. HOWEVER, BBC’s data strongly supports the fact that clients’ outcomes improve significantly if they attend training prior to each proposal that they plan to submit. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Technology-based entrepreneurs and small companies experienced with NIH SBIR/STTR proposals. WHY ATTEND? To learn what changes have been made to the review criteria, research documents and forms, necessary information for current and future NIH SBIR/STTR proposals.

Speaker: Lisa Kurek