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    <title>Michigan Small Business &amp; Technology Development Center Upcoming Events</title>
    <description>Upcomming Events</description>
    <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/events.aspx</link>
    <lastBuildDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 15:25:20 GMT</lastBuildDate>
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      <title> FastTrac New Venture - Register if Interested - Grand Rapids, Thursday, May 17, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Kentwood Branch Library, Grand Rapids&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 17, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, 10 sessions ending Thursday, July 19&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: FastTrac&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Thanks to the financial support of a MSU's Broadband Technology Opportunity Program (BTOP) grant award, the registration fee of the class has been reduced from $700 to $140. (FREE for veterans)&lt;br /&gt;Please call the MI-SBTDC West Michigan office at (616) 331-7370 with questions.  To register, you must have a business idea and the desire to start a business.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 140.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320006"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320006</link>
      <category>FastTrac</category>
      <category>Kent County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Kentwood Branch Library, Grand Rapids</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 11:33:33 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business - Owosso, Thursday, May 17, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;I-69 Trade Corridor Region - Shiawassee Satellite Office, Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce, Owosso&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 17, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;This course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to grow small businesses. It covers basic marketing tools, market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well-planned approach to marketing is demonstrated with examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques. Focus is on the business' customers - creating and keeping them!&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 5.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=82320002"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=82320002</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Shiawassee County</category>
      <author>Business Training: I-69 Trade Corridor Region - Shiawassee Satellite Office, Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce, Owosso</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 14:20:55 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website: AM Session, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through:

- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website
If you're planning to create a website at the event, here's how you can prepare:

1. Sign up for a free Google account.
2. Pick three options for your domain name (this is your web address, such aswww.example.com).
3. Write down a one sentence and one paragraph description of your business.
4. Gather relevant digital photos and bring these on a USB drive for easy upload.

For more information, visit http://www.michigangetonline.com/faq&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Registration will be from 9:30 am - 9:45 am followed by the SBTDC welcome at 9:45 am. The Build Your Free Website session will begin at 10:00 am.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320086"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320086</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 13:05:57 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers 9:30 AM, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;ThumbWorks! A Michigan Works! Agency, Marlette&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit.  

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. &lt;br /&gt;Registration:  9:30 to 9:45 AM
Welcome &amp; Introduction:  9:45 to 10:00 AM
Grow Your Business Online: 10 to 11:30 AM (Lecture Room)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320112"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320112</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Sanilac County</category>
      <author>Business Training: ThumbWorks! A Michigan Works! Agency, Marlette</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 11:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online: AM Session, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. 

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Registration will be from 9:30 am - 9:45 am followed by the SBTDC welcome at 9:45 am. The Grow Your Business Online session will begin at 10:00 am.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320087"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320087</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 13:31:01 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers 11:30 AM, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;ThumbWorks! A Michigan Works! Agency, Marlette&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit. 

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. &lt;br /&gt;Registration &amp; Welcome:  11:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Grow Your Business Online:  11:45 AM to 1:15 PM (Lecture Room)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320115"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320115</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Sanilac County</category>
      <author>Business Training: ThumbWorks! A Michigan Works! Agency, Marlette</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 09:49:47 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website: PM Session, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through:

- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website
If you're planning to create a website at the event, here's how you can prepare:

1. Sign up for a free Google account.
2. Pick three options for your domain name (this is your web address, such aswww.example.com).
3. Write down a one sentence and one paragraph description of your business.
4. Gather relevant digital photos and bring these on a USB drive for easy upload.

For more information, visit http://www.michigangetonline.com/faq&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Registration &amp; Welcome:  11:30 to 11:45 AM
Build Your FREE Website Online:  11:45 AM to 1:15 PM (Computer Lab)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320080"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320080</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 13:15:47 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online: PM Session, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps.  

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Registration &amp; Welcome:  11:30 to 11:45 AM
Grow Your Business Online:  11:45 AM to 1:15 PM &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320081"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320081</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 13:15:36 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> BRC Opening Series: Fundamentals of Finance, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;District Library, Ypsilanti, MI&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;An introductory seminar, this 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 &amp; loss statement are explained. Cash flow analysis and breakeven are also covered with specific small business examples.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant Ron Stevens&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Ypsilanti District Library &amp; Washtenaw Community College &lt;br /&gt;Please preregister online or by calling 734-547-9170.  This business fundamentals series is provided to you at no cost through the generous support of the Ypsilanti District Library, Washtenaw Community College, and other local partners. &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120310058"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120310058</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Washtenaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: District Library, Ypsilanti, MI</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 11:43:20 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Lennon, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Perkins Library - Lennon, MI, Lennon&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;You see a need, you have a passion or a hidden talent. Do you know what it takes to turn that enthusiasm into a successful business? This seminar is for individuals considering self-employment or at the beginning stages of starting a business. Get focused. Get motivated. Be informed.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Consultant&lt;br /&gt;$5.00 printing charge payable at the door&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 5.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=82320001"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=82320001</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Lennon</category>
      <author>Business Training: Perkins Library - Lennon, MI, Lennon</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:04:31 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Restaurant/Food Service Business - Kalamazoo, MI, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Western Michigan University, Haworth College of Business&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, May 22, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;If you are considering opening a restaurant or food service small business, this workshop was designed for you!  Discover what it takes to start and run a restaurant or food service business from setting the culture to setting up a cash flow. Topics to be covered include a review of licensing requirements, buying equipment, creating a menu and what to consider when looking for a space and the costs of building out the space and much more.  Presented by Mr. John Schmitt, MI-SBTDC Senior Business Consultant and former restaurant owner.

Please register online and pay via charge card on MI-SBTDC Google Pay.  The Google Pay account you establish is only for the MI-SBTDC online payment system.  You are not signing up for Google.  Please contact our office with any online payment questions or concerns.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 35.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110310065"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110310065</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Kalamazoo County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Western Michigan University, Haworth College of Business</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:04:20 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Advanced Social Media, Wednesday, May 23, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 23, 2012 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Are you familiar with social media but not sure how to use it for your business marketing?  If you're considering adding social media to your marketing plan but don't know where to start . then this is the workshop for you!  

This is a hands-on workshop where you will interact with the presenter as you walk through being introduced to the most commonly used social media platforms.  You will also be guided step-by-step through building a Facebook page for your business.   A detailed presentation and how-to instructional guide will be provided to participants.

This seminar is for entrepreneurs, business owners and employees responsible for marketing a business.  To gain the most from this session, basic computer and Internet skills are required; as well as, having a personal Facebook account already set up.  You will also need to have remote access to your e-mail account.  If you do not have a personal Facebook page set up in advance, you will need to do this during the lunch break . the presenter will be there to assist you.

Space is limited ... register TODAY to save your space!

$35 fee is non-refundable

If you have questions regarding the seminar, please contact our speaker Kris McArdle at (810) 569-6856. Or click the e-mail button below.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Kris McArdle, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant &amp; Social Media Specialist&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 35.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320080"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320080</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 15:25:20 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Pre-Business Research Workshop/FastTrac Orientation - Detroit AM, Wednesday, May 23, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 23, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? This workshop is designed for you to learn best practices for increasing your chances of entrepreneurial success. The takeaways: an understanding of the business planning process;  how the planning process develops your business plan;  and the critical role of research in business planning and feasibility analysis. You will also learn to separate the myths from the realities of small business financing and have an opportunity to ask questions of a business consultant.  

Call Brian King at 313-967-9295 for more information.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320062"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320062</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:31:21 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Women's Business Certification (WBE) Orientation - Waterford - AM, Wednesday, May 23, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 23, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Managing a Business&lt;br /&gt;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.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Michigan Women's Business Council &lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.  Workshop fee is payable at the door to: WBEC-GL&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 25.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320038"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320038</link>
      <category>Managing a Business</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:41:40 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Flint AM, Thursday, May 24, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;I-69 Trade Corridor Regional Office - Flint - Counseling &amp; Training Site, Kettering University, Campus Center, Flint&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. 
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Kettering University, Corner of Chevrolet and University Avenues, Flint, MI -- Campus Center, Room 5-200.  Parking instructions will be emailed to you upon registration.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320013"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320013</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Genesee County</category>
      <author>Business Training: I-69 Trade Corridor Regional Office - Flint - Counseling &amp; Training Site, Kettering University, Campus Center, Flint</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2012 11:11:35 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Lansing, Thursday, May 24, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Kellie Hanford, Certified Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310135"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310135</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 16:56:26 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Meet the Lender - Kalamazoo, MI, Thursday, May 24, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Western Michigan University, Haworth College of Business&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;Meet the Lender gives new entrepreneurs seeking to start a business, or existing business owners, an open forum to meet with multiple lenders in one location to discuss their business plan and funding needs.  
Entrepreneurs Starting a Business:  Need funding to start your business?  Discover what potential lenders look for when making a lending decision.  Receive valuable feedback on your business plan.
Current Business Owners:  Looking to grow but struggling to find additional funding?  Use this opportunity to meet with lenders and evaluate your pitch.  Come prepared with a business plan and know your credit score.  If you need assistance to prepare a business plan, please contact the MI-SBTDC at 269-387-6004 or sbtdc-kzoo@wmich.edu.  The MI-SBTDC would like to thank the Economic Development Foundation-SBA 504 Loans for sponsoring this lending event at WMU.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320037"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320037</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Kalamazoo County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Western Michigan University, Haworth College of Business</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 15:20:30 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Social Media Revolution, Thursday, May 24, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Mid Michigan Community College, Doan Building, Mt. Pleasant&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;This course is designed for those looking to increase their familiarity with Social Media.  Using the internet effectively is a critical piece of many small businesses.  This training will cover the big three social networking sites, with a nod to a few others of note. 
Topics Include: What is Needed to Nurture a Successful Presence | Build an Online Brand | Appropriate Use of Social Media | Social Media Platforms&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Scott Gillespie&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 25.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=40320055"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=40320055</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Isabella County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Mid Michigan Community College, Doan Building, Mt. Pleasant</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 11:11:14 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> SBA Forum on Small Business Lending, Thursday, May 24, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 24, 2012 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;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.

&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultants, Local Bankers, SBA Loan Officers&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Washtenaw Community College&lt;br /&gt;There is no smoking allowed on the campus of Washtenaw Community College, please do not smoke while attending the seminar. Thank you for your assistance.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320018"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320018</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Washtenaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2012 09:50:12 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Thursday, May 24, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Hoyt Library, Saginaw&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 24, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.  Offered multiple times across the region.  Cost: Free!&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant and Hoyt Library Reference Librarian&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Public Libraries of Saginaw, Saginaw Future Inc., Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and Michigan Works!&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320012"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320012</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Saginaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Hoyt Library, Saginaw</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:33:15 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> 5 Keys to Achieving Fiscal Fitness - Detroit, Wednesday, May 30, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 30, 2012 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Fiscal Fitness&lt;br /&gt;An advanced financial planning workshop for established businesses designed to help even the non-financial business owner achieve "Fiscal Fitness", this state-wide training program is designed to help business owners strengthen financial literacy and improve the ability to access capital needed to grow.

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. 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.

To attend, please pre-register and pre-pay using your credit card, space is limited.*
         * Fifth Third Bank clients, please contact the MI-SBTDC office for scholarship information 313-967-9295.

&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC staff and a Bank Loan Officer from Fifth/ Third Bank&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Fifth Third Bank&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 25.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320029"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320029</link>
      <category>Fiscal Fitness</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:48:36 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Business Incubator Funding Workshop - Kalamazoo, MI, Wednesday, May 30, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Western Michigan University, Haworth College of Business&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 30, 2012 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Other&lt;br /&gt;Securing financial support is a key aspect of running a successful incubator. During this workshop, industry veteran Sandra Cochrane will provide detailed information about how to get funding for an incubation program from both the public and private sectors.  Cochrane, who has helped a number of clients write grant proposals, will explain various types of public and private grant funding and how to increase the chances of success in submitting an application. The types of grant sources covered include:
    * Federal (EDA, USDA, HUD, etc.)
    * State (State EDA, Workforce Development, etc.)
    * Local (incentives, LDFA, brownfield redevelopment, etc.)
    * Business community funding
    * Foundational funding/philanthrophy
An in-depth explanation of how to best prepare for and execute a successful funding campaign will be discussed. Specific topics included:  Assessing community support for an initiative, developing a case and rational for the campaign, creating an effective presentation and presenting the opportunity for investment.

Presented by:  Ms. Sanra Cochrane, MI-SBTDC Technology Consultant and Board Member with the National Business Incubator Association.


Fee includes workshop materials, lunch and one WMU day parking pass per attendee.  

Pre-registration and payment is required one week prior to workshop.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 295.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320032"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320032</link>
      <category>Other</category>
      <category>Kalamazoo County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Western Michigan University, Haworth College of Business</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:02:45 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website, Wednesday, May 30, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 30, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website: Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through: - Setting up your free website account - Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web) - Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it.

This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google, Intuit, MI-SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Google, Intuit, Washtenaw Community College&lt;br /&gt;Washtenaw Community College is a smoke free campus.  Please refrain from use of all tobacco products while on college grounds. &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320016"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320016</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Washtenaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 12:55:20 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers with Google, Wednesday, May 30, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 30, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers: Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. - Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more. - Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. 

This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit.  
Registration &amp; Welcome 9:30 - 10:00am 
Grow Your Business Online 10:00 - 11:30am&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google, MI-SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Google, Washtenaw Community College&lt;br /&gt;Washtenaw Community College is a smoke free campus.  Please refrain from use of all tobacco products while on college grounds. &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320014"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320014</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Washtenaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 12:55:47 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website, Wednesday, May 30, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 30, 2012 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website: Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through: - Setting up your free website account - Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web) - Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it.

This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google, Intuit, MI-SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Google, Intuit, Washtenaw Community College&lt;br /&gt;Washtenaw Community College is a smoke free campus.  Please refrain from use of all tobacco products while on college grounds. &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320017"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320017</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Washtenaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 12:55:07 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers with Google, Wednesday, May 30, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 30, 2012 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers: Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. - Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more. - Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. 

This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google, MI-SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Google, Washtenaw Community College&lt;br /&gt;Washtenaw Community College is a smoke free campus.  Please refrain from use of all tobacco products while on college grounds. &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320015"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320015</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Washtenaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2012 07:24:27 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Entrepreneur Series - Money Savings Opportunity - Livonia, Wednesday, May 30, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 30, 2012 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, 5 sessions ending Wednesday, June 27&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Other&lt;br /&gt;This money savings series is a real value and includes the following 5 classes:
Fundamentals of Starting a Business
Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan
Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business
Fundamentals of Financial Management
Fundamentals of Business Legal Issues
&lt;br /&gt;You must register and pay through Schoolcraft College prior to the start of the series to take advantage of the savings.

To register, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 169.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320079"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320079</link>
      <category>Other</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 08:57:37 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Livonia, Wednesday, May 30, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, May 30, 2012 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320054"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320054</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:43:50 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Team SBA Financing Roundtable  - Waterford - AM, Thursday, May 31, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, May 31, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;Before you apply for a business loan, we recommend that you first attend this 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, we'll 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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBA/Business Banker/Oakland County Business Counselor/Oakland County Business Finance Corporation Loan Officer&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320039"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320039</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:41:13 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Business Research Essentials - Portage, MI, Monday, June 04, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Portage District Library, Portage&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Monday, June 04, 2012 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Discover resources available 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 and locate your competition along with other information that will impact your business.  Business research classes are presented by Nicolette Warisse Sosulski, Business Librarian at the PDL.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320022"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320022</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Kalamazoo County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Portage District Library, Portage</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:05:36 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Lansing, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Kellie Hanford, Certified Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310103"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310103</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 15:56:19 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Small Business Loan Workshop, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;Are you in need of a small business loan or line of credit?  Then our workshop is for you!

Learn directly from financial institutions and small business consultants about:
. What is necessary to obtain financing
. The key elements of a loan package
. Options available for financing


Let us answer your questions and provide you with essential information to achieve your goal of starting a business or growing your existing business.

Lenders in attendance may include: Community Alliance Credit Union, Fifth Third Bank, PNC Bank and Michigan Certified Development Corporation.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320073"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320073</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 11:37:08 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through:

- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website

Registration: 9:30 to 9:45 AM
Welcome &amp; Introduction: 9:45 to 10:00 AM
Build Your FREE Website Online: 10 to 11:30 AM (Computer Lab)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320078"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320078</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 08:18:40 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit. 

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. 

Registration: 9:30 to 9:45 AM
Welcome &amp; Introduction: 9:45 to 10:00 AM
Grow Your Business Online: 10 to 11:30 AM (Lecture Room)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320080"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320080</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 08:19:28 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through:

- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website

Registration &amp; Welcome: 11:30 to 11:45 AM
Build Your FREE Website Online: 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM (Computer Lab)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320079"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320079</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 08:19:09 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit. 

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. 

Registration &amp; Welcome: 11:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Grow Your Business Online: 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM (Lecture Room)
&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320107"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320107</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 08:19:44 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Social Media 101, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;GVSU Bicycle Factory, Grand Rapids&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Other&lt;br /&gt;This course is designed for entrepreneurs and business owners who are new to social media.  Through step by step instruction and examples, attendees will learn how to get their business online using Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Rob Geer, West Michigan Kelly IT&lt;br /&gt;**Parking for this event will be in the Watson Lot. All attendees will need a permit in order to park here. We will send out emails prior to the event with these permits attached**&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320063"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320063</link>
      <category>Other</category>
      <category>Kent County</category>
      <author>Business Training: GVSU Bicycle Factory, Grand Rapids</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:57:28 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> FastTrac NewVenture - Waterford - PM, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, 10 sessions ending Tuesday, August 14&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: FastTrac&lt;br /&gt;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® 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. 

Full cost for the FastTrac NewVenture 10 week series is $700, however, scholarships are available to reduce the cost to $140.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;* * * You must submit an entrepreneurial assessment, business concept statement, and resume to qualify for the scholarship.  Class is limited to 30 people.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 140.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320040"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320040</link>
      <category>FastTrac</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 08:20:07 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Owosso, Tuesday, June 05, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;I-69 Trade Corridor Region - Shiawassee Satellite Office, Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce, Owosso&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 05, 2012 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;If you want to open and run a business successfully, a business plan allows you to be an effective business owner. Project costs, plan marketing strategies, set short and long-term goals, prepare for that important meeting with potential creditors. The SBTDC consultant will show you each step of the planning process.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 5.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=82310037"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=82310037</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Shiawassee County</category>
      <author>Business Training: I-69 Trade Corridor Region - Shiawassee Satellite Office, Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce, Owosso</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:18:04 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> 5 Keys to Achieving Fiscal Fitness - Grand Rapids, Wednesday, June 06, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;GVSU Bicycle Factory, Grand Rapids&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 06, 2012 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Fiscal Fitness&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC and Fifth Third Bank&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: No Cost: Thanks to support of the Fifth Third Foundation, we are able to reduce the normal program price of $75.&lt;br /&gt;Registration and light refreshments will begin at 8:30 AM and the program will run from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

**Parking for this event will be in the Watson Lot. All attendees will need a permit in order to park here. We will send out emails prior to the event with these permits attached**
&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320016"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320016</link>
      <category>Fiscal Fitness</category>
      <category>Kent County</category>
      <author>Business Training: GVSU Bicycle Factory, Grand Rapids</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 15:52:48 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> 8(a) Certification Orientation in Detroit, Wednesday, June 06, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 06, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Government Contracting&lt;br /&gt;The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center at Tech Town is hosting 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. Monthly pre-qualification meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month from 9 am - noon at Tech Town.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBA Staff&lt;br /&gt;**Attendees should arrive promptly at 9 am to be admitted, no one is admitted after 9:15 am. Doors open at 8:30 am** &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320021"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320021</link>
      <category>Government Contracting</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Dec 2011 11:11:03 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Clinton Township - AM, Wednesday, June 06, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-Works!, Atrium Center, Clinton Township&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 06, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.  Macomb County Residents attend Free, all others pay $30.00&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: A certified business counselor.&lt;br /&gt;The Atrium Center is located on the east side of Hayes Road, between 19 Mile &amp; Hall Road.  The MI-Works! Entrance is located behind the building.  FREE parking available in the lot.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320020"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320020</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-Works!, Atrium Center, Clinton Township</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 07:53:31 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Livonia, Wednesday, June 06, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 06, 2012 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320055"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320055</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 15:42:43 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business - Waterford - PM, Wednesday, June 06, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 06, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration and pre-payment are strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320041"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320041</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:43:54 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Small Business Loan Workshop - Waterford - AM, Thursday, June 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 07, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;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.

&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SCORE/SBA&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Pay by check or cash at the door.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 20.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320042"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320042</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:44:14 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Thursday, June 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Grand Valley State University, Holland Campus, Holland&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 07, 2012 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Explore business startup issues and receive assistance during these orientation sessions focused upon readiness to be in business, market research, writing a business plan and obtaining financing for your small business.  Learn the steps to starting a business from a Certified Business Consultant and receive answers to your financing questions from a Small Business Banker.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC and Fifth Third&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=74320011"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=74320011</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Ottawa County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Grand Valley State University, Holland Campus, Holland</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:14:33 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Business Research: Feasibility to Expansion - Waterford - PM, Thursday, June 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Ferndale Public Library, Ferndale&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 07, 2012 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;. Are you thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? 
. Are you a business owner who wants to benchmark your profit margin and other measures against similar size businesses in your industry? 
. Do you want to know about market trends and opportunities to grow your sales? 
. Are you looking for new customers or to diversify your market base?

Takeaways: 
. Find your ideal customers
. Find new customers  
. Find your competitors 
. Perform competitive analysis  
. Identify new site locations  
. Target direct mail campaigns  
. Reveal untapped markets  
. Expand into appropriate new markets  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Oakland County Business Center, Oakland County Research Department and an Oakland County Public Library&lt;br /&gt;Pre-Registration is strongly advised.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320043"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320043</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Ferndale Public Library, Ferndale</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 08:16:37 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Thursday, June 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Grace A Dow Memorial Library, Midland&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 07, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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 their 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.  Offered multiple times across the region.  Cost: Free!&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant and Grace A Dow Memorial Library Reference Librarian&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Grace A Dow Memorial Library; Midland Tomorrow; Midland County Clerk; Midland Area Chamber of Commerce; and Michigan Works!&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320006"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320006</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Midland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Grace A Dow Memorial Library, Midland</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:33:47 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Lapeer, Monday, June 11, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Mott Community College - Lapeer - Training Site Only, Lapeer, MI&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Monday, June 11, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. 
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Reg 6 MI-SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: VetBizCentral is a nonprofit based in Flint, MI dedicated to services specifically for veterans, providing counseling, training and advocacy related to small business.  For more information, visit www.vetbizcentral.com.&lt;br /&gt;Lapeer Campus of Mott Community College, 550 Lake Drive, Lapeer, MI  48446, Room B203.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320054"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320054</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Lapeer County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Mott Community College - Lapeer - Training Site Only, Lapeer, MI</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 19 Mar 2012 15:16:26 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Port Huron, Monday, June 11, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;St. Clair Community College, MTEC Building, corner of Glenwood and Erie Streets, Port Huron, MI&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Monday, June 11, 2012 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.   Class will meet in Room 208 of the St. Clair Community College MTEC.

For startup businesses, a recommended pre-requisite to this course on writing a business plan is to attend  "Fundamentals of Starting a Business," a 2 hour seminar that is offered by MI-SBTDC at multiple locations and dates around the region and state.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: VETERANS eligible for full scholarship - DD214.&lt;br /&gt;Advance payment is required for class planning purposes and registration will not be complete until payment is made at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled class. Payment may be made online by credit card, or by cash, check or money order made payable to Kettering University by mail or dropped off 5 business days in advance to:  MI-SBTDC  Kettering University, Campus Center Room 5-100, 1700 University Ave., Flint, MI  48504 

For more information or questions about registration and payment, contact the I-69 Trade Corridor Regional Office at 810.762.9660.

&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=101320002"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=101320002</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>St. Clair County</category>
      <author>Business Training: St. Clair Community College, MTEC Building, corner of Glenwood and Erie Streets, Port Huron, MI</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 16:15:46 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Cost Effective Marketing - Warren - AM, Tuesday, June 12, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Macomb County MI-SBTDC in Warren, Business Resource Center, Warren&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 12, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Learn how to develop a cost-effecting marketing plan that works using market research to identify your customers and their needs. Prepare a plan of action to meet those needs.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Don Morandini, Regional Director&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Michigan Business &amp; Professional Association and Michigan Food &amp; Beverage Association&lt;br /&gt;Limited seating, please pre-register online. For more information contact NaTasha Jones at 586-393-8800 or Denise Mentzer at 586-469-5118.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320044"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320044</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Macomb County MI-SBTDC in Warren, Business Resource Center, Warren</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 08:10:22 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Pre-Business Research Workshop/FastTrac Orientation - Detroit AM, Tuesday, June 12, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 12, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? This workshop is designed for you to learn best practices for increasing your chances of entrepreneurial success. The takeaways: an understanding of the business planning process;  how the planning process develops your business plan;  and the critical role of research in business planning and feasibility analysis. You will also learn to separate the myths from the realities of small business financing and have an opportunity to ask questions of a business consultant.  

Call Brian King at 313-967-9295 for more information.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320063"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320063</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:32:20 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business - Lansing, Tuesday, June 12, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 12, 2012 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Laurie Lonsdorf, Senior Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80320010"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80320010</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 Apr 2012 08:10:50 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business Workshop, Tuesday, June 12, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Jefferson East Business Association - MI-SBTDC East Detroit Outreach Office, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 12, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 35.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=92320007"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=92320007</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Jefferson East Business Association - MI-SBTDC East Detroit Outreach Office, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:45:52 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> CEED Microloan Orientation - Waterford - AM, Wednesday, June 13, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 13, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;This workshop is free, but pre-registration is required. &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320044"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320044</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:45:24 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Mt. Clemens - AM, Wednesday, June 13, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 13, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.  
PLEASE NOTE: Macomb County Residents attend FREE, all others pay $40.00&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: A certified business counselor.&lt;br /&gt;Metered parking ($0.25 per 1/2 hour -- Quarters, only) is available adjacent to the Macomb County Administration Building, 1/2 block south of the intersection of Main and Cass Streets -- enter off Main Street.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320031"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320031</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 07:54:30 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Wednesday, June 13, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Hoyt Library, Saginaw&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 13, 2012 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.  Offered multiple times across the region.  Cost: Free!&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant and Hoyt Library Reference Librarian&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Public Libraries of Saginaw, Saginaw Future Inc., Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and Michigan Works!&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320017"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320017</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Saginaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Hoyt Library, Saginaw</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:34:16 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business - Livonia, Wednesday, June 13, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 13, 2012 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320056"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320056</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:48:56 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Business Legal Issues, Wednesday, June 13, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center  (MAREC), Muskegon&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 13, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Legal&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Parmenter O'Toole&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=72320002"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=72320002</link>
      <category>Legal</category>
      <category>Muskegon County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center  (MAREC), Muskegon</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:15:10 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> LinkedIn for Business (Beginner) - Waterford - PM, Wednesday, June 13, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 13, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Introduction to Social Media Marketing and using LinkedIn for Business
Millions of people are using LinkedIn and social media for fun and to find jobs, but it is also a powerful business tool that can connect you with your customers, potential customers and the world.  
Social media is a two-way marketing channel-a conversation with your customers.  With social media marketing and LinkedIn you can leverage these conversations and relationships to: increase brand visibility and reach, be established as a thought leader and expert in your field, give real time customer service, stay on top of industry trends and conduct competitive research, build brand advocates, and yes- you can see a measurable ROI-even sales!
But before you jump in and start using social media, learn how to get these results with an introduction to social media marketing and LinkedIn for business.
What you will learn:
. How to create your own as well as a Company Profile on LinkedIn
. How to set up your account and profile
. How to optimize your profile
. How to navigate LinkedIn
. LinkedIn culture
. How to find (the right) connections and businesses to follow
. How to use tags to manage your connections
. How to find and join the right groups to further your goals (make new connections, network, establish yourself as a thought leader)
. How to ask for and write recommendations (and why!)
. LinkedIn Privacy
. How to protect yourself and your brand on LinkedIn
. How to establish and track your digital footprint
. How to stay on top of social media and LinkedIn trends
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Salina Washington&lt;br /&gt;Pre Registration is highly recommended.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320045"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320045</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:55:19 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Destination...Store, Thursday, June 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Alpena Community College, Newport Center, Room 108, Alpena&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 14, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;In this presentation, learn how to: Provide a rich experience for customers. Develop a holistic approach that involves both emotional and rational triggers of customers. Create an interactive experience that no one else can replicate, therefore making YOU a Destination Store! Presented by professional consultant Denise Hansen.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Denise Hansen&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce&lt;br /&gt;For infomration or registration, call teh Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce at 989-354-4181&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 15.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=30320003"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=30320003</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Alpena County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Alpena Community College, Newport Center, Room 108, Alpena</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 14:25:18 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Waterford - PM, Thursday, June 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 14, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration and pre-payment are strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320046"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320046</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:46:16 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Small Businesses Social Symposium, Friday, June 15, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Friday, June 15, 2012 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: E-Commerce&lt;br /&gt;Early Bird Pricing through May 30th: $20.00 for the full web marketing conference!

Small Businesses Social Symposium separates itself from other conferences and events. The half-day program is designed by business owners for business owners through engaging sessions that will include insightful industry tips from recognized business leaders. More than 300 attendees, primarily small business owners, will gather for this year's Small Business Symposium. In addition to breakout sessions covering social media, website design, and managing your online brand, the event will feature local experts from businesses and business support organizations who will provide information and services to help your business grow.

Event Schedule: 

12:00pm - 12:30pm Event Registration &amp; Exhibitors Booths

12:30pm - 1:30pm Welcome and Keynote Speaker

1:30pm - 2:15pm First Workshop Series Presentations

2:30pm - 3:15pm Second Workshop Series Presentations

3:30pm - 4:15pm Third Workshop Series Presentations

4:15pm - 5:00pm  Networking with Experts&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: David Lorenz, MEDC&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: MI-SBTDC, Washtenaw Community College&lt;br /&gt;Tables are available to exhibitors and business support organizations.  For more information please contact Shannon Beeman, 734-477-8762.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 20.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320012"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=120320012</link>
      <category>E-Commerce</category>
      <category>Washtenaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 14:20:24 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Flint AM, Tuesday, June 19, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;I-69 Trade Corridor Regional Office - Flint - Counseling &amp; Training Site, Kettering University, Campus Center, Flint&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 19, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. 
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Kettering University, Corner of Chevrolet and University Avenues, Flint, MI -- Campus Center, Room 5-200.  Parking instructions will be emailed to you upon registration.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320015"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320015</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Genesee County</category>
      <author>Business Training: I-69 Trade Corridor Regional Office - Flint - Counseling &amp; Training Site, Kettering University, Campus Center, Flint</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2012 11:13:13 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Branding Tool Kit for the Small Business Owner, Wednesday, June 20, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 20, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;For any small business to stand out from the competition, it's essential to develop a strong, identifiable brand. In this workshop we'll discuss what branding is, why it mattes and the importance of both visual and verbal branding.  We'll give you the tools to sketch out key branding components that define your company's brand personality, insights and position, tagline and key marketing messages.  You'll walk away with a strong framework for developing your company's own verbal brand.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Laurie Lonsdorf, Senion Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80320011"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80320011</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:23:59 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business - Mt. Clemens - AM, Wednesday, June 20, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 20, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;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. 
PLEASE NOTE: Macomb County Residents attend FREE, all others pay $40.00&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: A certified business counselor.&lt;br /&gt;Metered parking ($0.25 per 1/2 hour -- Quarters, only) is available adjacent to the Macomb County Administration Building, 1/2 block south of the intersection of Main and Cass Streets -- enter off Main Street.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320035"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320035</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 07:54:48 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Financial Management - Livonia, Wednesday, June 20, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 20, 2012 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;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 &amp; loss statement are explained. Cash flow analysis and breakeven are also covered with specific small business examples.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320057"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320057</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:49:14 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> LinkedIn for Business (Intermediate) - Waterford - PM, Wednesday, June 20, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 20, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Create your LinkedIn Strategy
You will:
. Establish your social media objectives and goals for LinkedIn
. Create your LinkedIn social media marketing strategy and schedule 
. Integrate LinkedIn  into your marketing strategy 
What you will learn:
. Core strategies and tactics businesses are using to get customers talking through LinkedIn
. How to use social media management tools for LinkedIn
. How to schedule updates in advance
. How to use social media search tools for optimizing the timing and reach of your updates
. How to use social media monitoring tools and leverage them for your LinkedIn strategy 
. How to leverage LinkedIn Groups and Answers to establish yourself as a though leader and expert in your field
. How to respond ethically and effectively to brand supporters and detractors
. How to manage your digital footprint-connect LinkedIn with your website and other social media platforms&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Salina Washington&lt;br /&gt;Pre Registration is highly recommended.  ***Prerequisite for this session is LinkedIn for Business (Beginner)
&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320047"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320047</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:55:31 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Team SBA Financing Roundtable - Sterling Heights - AM, Thursday, June 21, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC - Macomb, Velocity, Sterling Heights&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 21, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;Learn how lenders analyze your loan request, and what they look for in a credit application. Meet with bankers, SBA loan officers and small business consultants to discuss your financing needs. You must know how much money you need to borrow. A completed business plan is required. Contact our office at 586-469-5118 to meet with a business counselor prior to registering for this event. You MUST pre-register.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Nancy Grose, SBA&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBA&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320042"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320042</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC - Macomb, Velocity, Sterling Heights</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 07:56:13 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Thursday, June 21, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Grand Rapids Urban League, Grand Rapids&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 21, 2012 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Explore business startup issues and receive assistance during these orientation sessions focused upon readiness to be in business, market research, writing a business plan and obtaining financing for your small business.  Learn the steps to starting a business from a Certified Business Consultant and receive answers to your financing questions from a Small Business Banker.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC and Fifth Third&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320031"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320031</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Kent County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Grand Rapids Urban League, Grand Rapids</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:11:52 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Social Networking for Small Businesses - Livonia, Thursday, June 21, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 21, 2012 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Learn the basics and etiquette of social networking for your small business. Content will include how to leverage social networks to help grow your business while reducing your marketing costs. Benefits, disadvantages and tricks of the major social networks (FaceBook, Twitter, and Linked-In) will be discussed.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Shannon Beeman - Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Register for this event online" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320070"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320070</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:49:37 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business &amp; Writing a Business Plan - Kalamazoo, MI, Thursday, June 21, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Western Michigan University, Haworth College of Business&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 21, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;In this course, participants will learn the fundamentals of starting and owning a small business in Michigan and how to write a comprehensive business plan and cash flow statement.  Business plans are important to help you set goals, determine resources needed to carry out your plan, and foresee problems.  This three-hour course will discuss each section of a business plan:  Executive Summary, Business Description, Marketing, Operations, Management, Sales, and Financials. 

Please register online and pay via charge card on MI-SBTDC Google Pay.  The Google Pay account you establish is only for the MI-SBTDC online payment system.  You are not signing up for Google.  Please contact our office with any online payment questions or concerns.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 35.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320005"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320005</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Kalamazoo County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Western Michigan University, Haworth College of Business</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:43:53 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Writing A Business Plan - Waterford - PM, Thursday, June 21, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 21, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration and pre-payment are strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320048"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320048</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:47:01 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Friday, June 22, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Michigan Works!, North Pointe Plaza, Bay City&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Friday, June 22, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Delta College; Bay County Clerk; Bay Area Chamber of Commerce; Alice &amp; Jack Wirt Public Library; Michigan Works!; Bay Future Inc.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320028"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320028</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Michigan Works!, North Pointe Plaza, Bay City</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:34:41 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online! Google Event - AM SESSION, Tuesday, June 26, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;WSU - Macomb Education Center, Clinton Township&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 26, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through:
- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website

If you're planning to create a website at the event, here's how you can prepare:
1. Sign up for a free Google account.
2. Pick three options for your domain name (this is your web address, such aswww.example.com).
3. Write down a one sentence and one paragraph description of your business.
4. Gather relevant digital photos and bring these on a USB drive for easy upload.

For more information, visit http://www.michigangetonline.com/faq&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;TO REGISTER: Please call 586-469-5118&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320052"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320052</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: WSU - Macomb Education Center, Clinton Township</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 08:11:22 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online! Google Event - PM SESSION, Tuesday, June 26, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;WSU - Macomb Education Center, Clinton Township&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, June 26, 2012 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through:
- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website

If you're planning to create a website at the event, here's how you can prepare:
1. Sign up for a free Google account.
2. Pick three options for your domain name (this is your web address, such aswww.example.com).
3. Write down a one sentence and one paragraph description of your business.
4. Gather relevant digital photos and bring these on a USB drive for easy upload.

For more information, visit http://www.michigangetonline.com/faq&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;TO REGISTER: Please call 586-469-5118&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320053"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320053</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: WSU - Macomb Education Center, Clinton Township</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 09:30:24 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Finance ~ 5 Keys to Achieving Fiscal Fitness - Mt. Clemens - AM, Wednesday, June 27, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 27, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Fiscal Fitness&lt;br /&gt;This state-wide program was designed to assist the non-financial small business owner to achieve "Fiscal Fitness",  strengthen their financial literacy and improve their ability to access the capital they need to grow their businesses.  

Topics discussed include identifying problems using your balance sheet and income statement, using the breakeven analysis to improve decision making,  ways to increase cash flow, planning working capital to support growth of the small business, and how to keep your banker on your side.
* Fifth Third Bank clients, please contact the MI-SBTDC office for scholarship information 586-469-5118
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: A Certified Business Counselor&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Fifth-Third Bank&lt;br /&gt;Metered parking ($0.25 per 1/2 hour -- Quarters, only) is available adjacent to the Macomb County Administration Building, 1/2 block south of the intersection of Main and Cass Streets -- enter off Main Street.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 25.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320007"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320007</link>
      <category>Fiscal Fitness</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 07:56:33 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Pre-Business Research Workshop/FastTrac Orientation - Detroit AM, Wednesday, June 27, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 27, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? This workshop is designed for you to learn best practices for increasing your chances of entrepreneurial success. The takeaways: an understanding of the business planning process;  how the planning process develops your business plan;  and the critical role of research in business planning and feasibility analysis. You will also learn to separate the myths from the realities of small business financing and have an opportunity to ask questions of a business consultant.  

Call Brian King at 313-967-9295 for more information.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320064"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320064</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:32:50 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Business Legal Issues - Livonia, Wednesday, June 27, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 27, 2012 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Legal&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320058"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320058</link>
      <category>Legal</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:49:56 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business, Wednesday, June 27, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center  (MAREC), Muskegon&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 27, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Jason Piasecki, Revel&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=72320006"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=72320006</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Muskegon County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center  (MAREC), Muskegon</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:35:40 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> LinkedIn for Business (Advanced) - Waterford - PM, Wednesday, June 27, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, June 27, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Create and Launch your LinkedIn Campaign
You will:
. Establish objective and goals for a LinkedIn campaign
. Create and launch a LinkedIn campaign
. Learn advanced strategies for reaching influencers and building a long-lasting online community
. Explore ways to take LinkedIn beyond social media marketing
. Acquire the tools you need to deputize your employees for organization-wide LinkedIn engagement
You will also:
. Build a complete multi-channel, social media-enabled marketing strategy
. Integrate LinkedIn and traditional marketing channels to deliver a competitive advantage
. Establish a social media LinkedIn timeline
. Grow your base of connections/followers and engage participants 
. Learn how to advertise with LinkedIn
. Ensure a reasonable rate of return on your social media investment
. Acquire the tools you need to deputize your employees for organization-wide LinkedIn engagement
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Salina Washington&lt;br /&gt;Pre Registration is highly recommended. 
***Pre-requisites for this class are LinkedIn for Business (Intermediate) and LinkedIn for Business (Beginner).  No exceptions.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320049"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320049</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:55:42 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Developing Your Unique Marketing Plan Workshop - Livonia, Thursday, June 28, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 28, 2012 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Successful small business owners need to develop a unique marketing plan. The interactive design of this course will allow you to assess your current marketing initiatives and determine marketing opportunities that will drive awareness and sales. In this course, time will be dedicated to creating a strong marketing plan for each attendee's business.  * Lunch will be provided.

As part of the class, a mandatory questionnaire needs to be completed before the class date. Please call the MI-SBTDC at 734-462-4438 to request the questionnaire.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Lori Sullivan&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 150.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320071"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320071</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:50:29 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Lansing, Thursday, June 28, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 28, 2012 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Kellie Hanford, Certified Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310136"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310136</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 16:57:13 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> QuickBooks® Essentials Part I - Waterford - AM, Thursday, June 28, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 28, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Cash Flow Management&lt;br /&gt;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&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Stacey Kildal - Kildal Services, LLC&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly suggested.  We highly recommend bringing a laptop.
Attend both Part I and Part II for $75.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320050"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320050</link>
      <category>Cash Flow Management</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:47:44 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> QuickBooks® Essentials Part II - Waterford - AM, Thursday, June 28, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, June 28, 2012 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Cash Flow Management&lt;br /&gt;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 &amp; making deposits
. Entering vendor bills/paying vendor bills
. Using credit card accounts&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Stacey Kildal - Kildal Services, LLC&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly suggested.  We highly recommend bringing a laptop. 
Attend both Part I and Part II for $75.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 35.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320051"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320051</link>
      <category>Cash Flow Management</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:48:10 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Pre-Business Research Workshop/FastTrac Orientation - Detroit AM, Tuesday, July 10, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, July 10, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? This workshop is designed for you to learn best practices for increasing your chances of entrepreneurial success. The takeaways: an understanding of the business planning process;  how the planning process develops your business plan;  and the critical role of research in business planning and feasibility analysis. You will also learn to separate the myths from the realities of small business financing and have an opportunity to ask questions of a business consultant.  

Call Brian King at 313-967-9295 for more information.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320065"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320065</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:34:48 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Livonia, Tuesday, July 10, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, July 10, 2012 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320059"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320059</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:50:50 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business Workshop, Tuesday, July 10, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Jefferson East Business Association - MI-SBTDC East Detroit Outreach Office, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, July 10, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 35.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=92320008"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=92320008</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Jefferson East Business Association - MI-SBTDC East Detroit Outreach Office, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:46:23 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> 8(a) Certification Orientation in Detroit, Wednesday, July 11, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 11, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Government Contracting&lt;br /&gt;The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center at Tech Town is hosting 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. Monthly pre-qualification meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month from 9 am - noon at Tech Town.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBA Staff&lt;br /&gt;**Attendees should arrive promptly at 9 am to be admitted, no one is admitted after 9:15 am. Doors open at 8:30 am** &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320022"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320022</link>
      <category>Government Contracting</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Dec 2011 11:12:44 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> CEED Microloan Orientation - Waterford, Wednesday, July 11, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 11, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;This workshop is free, but pre-registration is required. &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320053"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320053</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:19:09 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Mt. Clemens - AM, Wednesday, July 11, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 11, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.  Macomb County Residents attend Free, all others pay $30.00&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: A certified business counselor.&lt;br /&gt;Metered parking ($0.25 per 1/2 hour -- Quarters, only) is available adjacent to the Macomb County Administration Building, 1/2 block south of the intersection of Main and Cass Streets -- enter off Main Street.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320021"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320021</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 07:56:52 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Wednesday, July 11, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Alice &amp; Jack Wirt Public Library, Bay City&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 11, 2012 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant; Alice &amp; Jack Wirt Public Library Representative&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Delta College; Bay County Clerk; Bay Area Chamber of Commerce; Alice &amp; Jack Wirt Public Library; Michigan Works!; Bay Future Inc.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320023"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320023</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Alice &amp; Jack Wirt Public Library, Bay City</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Nov 2011 09:58:43 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Business Research: Feasibility to Expansion - Waterford - AM, Thursday, July 12, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, July 12, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;. Are you thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? 
. Are you a business owner who wants to benchmark your profit margin and other measures against similar size businesses in your industry? 
. Do you want to know about market trends and opportunities to grow your sales? 
. Are you looking for new customers or to diversify your market base?

Takeaways: 
. Find your ideal customers
. Find new customers  
. Find your competitors 
. Perform competitive analysis  
. Identify new site locations  
. Target direct mail campaigns  
. Reveal untapped markets  
. Expand into appropriate new markets  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Oakland County Business Center, Oakland County Research Department and an Oakland County Public Library&lt;br /&gt;Pre-Registration is strongly advised.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320052"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320052</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 11:08:19 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Livonia, Thursday, July 12, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, July 12, 2012 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320060"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320060</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:51:15 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> PeerSpectives CEO Roundtable - Lowe Foundation Retreat, Sunday, July 15, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;, Big Rock Valley Retreat Center, Cassopolis&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Sunday, July 15, 2012 , 3 sessions ending Tuesday, July 17&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Leadership of My Organization

Leadership of My Organization will explore the critical elements of culture and the productive impact that systems have on the organization.

You will learn how to:

--  Build a culture that empowers employees to give their very best in a trusted and energetic environment

--  Diagnose your company's readiness for change to make it more robust and resilient.

--  Use practical techniques to design an organizational structure, systems and processes that enhance, instead of restraining, the work your people do.

--  Gain insight and tools that encourage your organization to continuously renew itself.

&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Edward Lowe Foundation Staff&lt;br /&gt;This retreat is only open to current members of Michigan PeerSpectives Roundtables&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 300.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=150320001"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=150320001</link>
      <author>Business Training: , Big Rock Valley Retreat Center, Cassopolis</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:45:29 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Lansing, Tuesday, July 17, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, July 17, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Kellie Hanford, Certified Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310104"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310104</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 15:57:45 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business - Livonia, Tuesday, July 17, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, July 17, 2012 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320061"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320061</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:51:33 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> 5 Keys to Achieving Fiscal Fitness - Waterford - AM, Wednesday, July 18, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 18, 2012 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Fiscal Fitness&lt;br /&gt;Fiscal Fitness will assist business owners understand and use their financial information to advance and grow their company. The ideal participant in Fiscal Fitness will have 2-3 years of financial history and be pursuing financing or having challenges with cash flow. 

Who should attend: 
CEOs and owners of businesses with two or more years of financial history who want to have a better understanding of how to use their financial statements to make better business decisions. 

Topics include how to: 
. Use your Balance Sheet and Income Statement in managing your business
. Use breakeven analysis to improve your decision-making 
. Find the source of your cash flow problems
. Increase your company's cash flow 
. Get the banker on your side
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Fifth Third Bank&lt;br /&gt;Pre-Payment Required&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 25.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320033"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320033</link>
      <category>Fiscal Fitness</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:43:09 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Business Legal Issues - Mt. Clemens - AM, Wednesday, July 18, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 18, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Legal&lt;br /&gt;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.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: John Carter, Esq. and Lori K. Bianco, CPA&lt;br /&gt;Metered parking ($0.25 per 1/2 hour -- Quarters, only) is available adjacent to the Macomb County Administration Building, 1/2 block south of the intersection of Main and Cass Streets -- enter off Main Street.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320028"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320028</link>
      <category>Legal</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 07:57:11 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Financial Management, Wednesday, July 18, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center  (MAREC), Muskegon&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 18, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;This course introduces basic accounting concepts and how to apply financial information that helps small business owners manage a business more effectively. Key documents including Cashflow Statement, Profit &amp; Loss, and Balance Sheet are explained, using specific small business examples. The course is designed to help entrepreneurs understand accounting principles and financial statements, and work more effectively with the accounting team.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=72320010"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=72320010</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Muskegon County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center  (MAREC), Muskegon</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:44:18 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Writing A Business Plan - Waterford - AM, Thursday, July 19, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, July 19, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration and pre-payment are strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320054"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320054</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:19:32 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Business Legal Issues - Livonia, Thursday, July 19, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, July 19, 2012 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Legal&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Staff&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320063"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320063</link>
      <category>Legal</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:51:59 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Thursday, July 19, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Grand Rapids Urban League, Grand Rapids&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, July 19, 2012 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Explore business startup issues and receive assistance during these orientation sessions focused upon readiness to be in business, market research, writing a business plan and obtaining financing for your small business.  Learn the steps to starting a business from a Certified Business Consultant and receive answers to your financing questions from a Small Business Banker.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC and Fifth Third&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320032"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=70320032</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Kent County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Grand Rapids Urban League, Grand Rapids</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:12:52 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Thursday, July 19, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Grace A Dow Memorial Library, Midland&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, July 19, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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 their 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.  Offered multiple times across the region.  Cost: Free!&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant and Grace A Dow Memorial Library Reference Librarian&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Grace A Dow Memorial Library; Midland Tomorrow; Midland County Clerk; Midland Area Chamber of Commerce; and Michigan Works!&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320007"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320007</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Midland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Grace A Dow Memorial Library, Midland</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:01:35 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Team SBA - Detroit, Friday, July 20, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Friday, July 20, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;(This SBA Forum has been Cancelled.) Before you apply for a business loan, we recommend that you first attend a Financing Roundtable. The roundtables are a free loan orientation workshop conducted by a business banker, a business consultant from the SBAs network of Small Business Development Centers, and an SBA representative. 

During the roundtable, we will debunk the myths and demystify the process of small business financing. You willl learn how the lending process works and what is expected of you and you will  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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBA staff, a Business Banker, and a MI-SBTDC Business Counselor&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: U.S. Small Business Administration&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320044"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320044</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:19:06 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Financial Management - Livonia, Tuesday, July 24, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, July 24, 2012 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;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 &amp; loss statement are explained. Cash flow analysis and breakeven are also covered with specific small business examples.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320062"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320062</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:52:17 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business - Lansing, Tuesday, July 24, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, July 24, 2012 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Laurie Lonsdorf, Senior Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80320012"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80320012</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 13:34:04 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Pre-Business Research Workshop/FastTrac Orientation - Detroit AM, Wednesday, July 25, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 25, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? This workshop is designed for you to learn best practices for increasing your chances of entrepreneurial success. The takeaways: an understanding of the business planning process;  how the planning process develops your business plan;  and the critical role of research in business planning and feasibility analysis. You will also learn to separate the myths from the realities of small business financing and have an opportunity to ask questions of a business consultant.  

Call Brian King at 313-967-9295 for more information.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320066"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320066</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:35:06 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business &amp; Writing a Business Plan - Portage, MI, Wednesday, July 25, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Portage District Library, Portage&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, July 25, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;In this course, participants will learn the fundamentals of starting and owning a small business in Michigan and how to write a comprehensive business plan and cash flow statement. Business plans are important to help you set goals, determine resources needed to carry out your plan, and foresee problems. This three-hour course will discuss each section of a business plan: Executive Summary, Business Description, Marketing, Operations, Management, Sales, and Financials. 

Please register online and pay via charge card on MI-SBTDC Google Pay.  The Google Pay account you establish is only for the MI-SBTDC online payment system.  You are not signing up for Google.  Please contact our office with any online payment questions or concerns.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 35.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320023"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=110320023</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Kalamazoo County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Portage District Library, Portage</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:04:56 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> TEAM SBA - Financing Roundtable, Thursday, July 26, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, July 26, 2012 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;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 &amp; Technology Development Center.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Nancy Grose, SBA&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50310262"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50310262</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:59:30 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> TEAM SBA: Financing Roundtables - Livonia, Friday, July 27, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Friday, July 27, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;Before you apply for a business loan, first attend a free financing roundtable. We will 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 will 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 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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Cathy Gase -SBA&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBA&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320027"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320027</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:01:38 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Legal &amp; Financial Basics - Waterford - AM, Tuesday, July 31, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, July 31, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Legal&lt;br /&gt;"Legal &amp; Financial Basics" provides new and existing Michigan entrepreneurs an understanding of the "key" legal and financial considerations when starting and operating a business in Michigan. The program addresses "how to" select the best legal entity for  your business, "how to" protect your business interests when dealing with customers, suppliers or independent contractors and important information and guidelines for establishing short and long term succession plans for your business.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: John Carter of Witzke Berry &amp; Carter PLLC&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly suggested.  Seating is limited&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320055"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320055</link>
      <category>Legal</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:19:54 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> 8(a) Certification Orientation in Detroit, Wednesday, August 01, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 01, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Government Contracting&lt;br /&gt;The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center at Tech Town is hosting 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. Monthly pre-qualification meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month from 9 am - noon at Tech Town.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBA Staff&lt;br /&gt;**Attendees should arrive promptly at 9 am to be admitted, no one is admitted after 9:15 am. Doors open at 8:30 am** &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320023"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320023</link>
      <category>Government Contracting</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Dec 2011 11:13:01 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Lansing, Wednesday, August 01, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 01, 2012 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Kellie Hanford, Certified Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310138"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310138</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 16:58:50 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business - Waterford - PM, Wednesday, August 01, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 01, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration and pre-payment are strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320056"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320056</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:11:41 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Thursday, August 02, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Grand Valley State University, Holland Campus, Holland&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, August 02, 2012 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Explore business startup issues and receive assistance during these orientation sessions focused upon readiness to be in business, market research, writing a business plan and obtaining financing for your small business.  Learn the steps to starting a business from a Certified Business Consultant and receive answers to your financing questions from a Small Business Banker.  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC and Fifth Third&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=74320012"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=74320012</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Ottawa County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Grand Valley State University, Holland Campus, Holland</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:16:42 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Business Research: Feasibility to Expansion - Waterford - PM, Thursday, August 02, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Ferndale Public Library, Ferndale&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, August 02, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;. Are you thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? 
. Are you a business owner who wants to benchmark your profit margin and other measures against similar size businesses in your industry? 
. Do you want to know about market trends and opportunities to grow your sales? 
. Are you looking for new customers or to diversify your market base?

Takeaways: 
. Find your ideal customers
. Find new customers  
. Find your competitors 
. Perform competitive analysis  
. Identify new site locations  
. Target direct mail campaigns  
. Reveal untapped markets  
. Expand into appropriate new markets  &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Oakland County Business Center, Oakland County Research Department and an Oakland County Public Library&lt;br /&gt;Pre-Registration is strongly advised.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320057"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320057</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Ferndale Public Library, Ferndale</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 11:08:46 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Pre-Business Research Workshop/FastTrac Orientation - Detroit AM, Tuesday, August 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 07, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;Thinking of starting your own business and want to research your business idea? This workshop is designed for you to learn best practices for increasing your chances of entrepreneurial success. The takeaways: an understanding of the business planning process;  how the planning process develops your business plan;  and the critical role of research in business planning and feasibility analysis. You will also learn to separate the myths from the realities of small business financing and have an opportunity to ask questions of a business consultant.  

Call Brian King at 313-967-9295 for more information.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320067"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=90320067</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: EMU MI-SBTDC @ TechTown, TechTown, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:38:00 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online - Build Your FREE Website (AM session), Tuesday, August 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 07, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Get Your Business Online - Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit.  

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop will walk you through:

- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website&lt;br /&gt;Registration: 9:30 to 9:45 AM
Welcome &amp; Introduction: 9:45 to 10:00 AM 
Build Your FREE Website Online: 10 to 11:30 AM - Computer Labs in K Wing (K104, 109 and 114)

&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320095"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320095</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:16:17 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online - Discover how to get found and attract customers (AM Session), Tuesday, August 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 07, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online - Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps.  This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit. 

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication.&lt;br /&gt;Registration: 9:30 to 9:45 AM
Welcome &amp; Introduction: 9:45 to 10:00 AM 
Michigan Grow Your Business Online: 10 - 11:30 AM - Lecture Room S 105 (S Wing)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320098"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320098</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 10:48:11 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online - Build Your FREE Website (PM session), Tuesday, August 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 07, 2012 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Get Your Business Online - Build Your FREE Website

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year.  This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop will walk you through:
- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website&lt;br /&gt;Registration &amp; Welcome:  11:30 to 11:45 AM
Build Your FREE Website Online:  11:45 AM to 1:15 PM - Computer Labs in K Wing (K104, 109 and 114)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320100"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320100</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:29:46 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online - Discover how to get found and attract customers (PM Session), Tuesday, August 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 07, 2012 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online - Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps.  This workshop is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC's) Pure Michigan Business Connect Tool Kit. 

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication.&lt;br /&gt;Registration &amp; Welcome: 11:30 to 11:45 AM
Grow Your Business Online: 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM - Lecture Room S 105 (S Wing)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320099"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320099</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Great Lakes Bay Office, Delta College H Wing, University Center</author>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:17:15 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Livonia, Tuesday, August 07, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 07, 2012 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320064"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320064</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:59:32 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> CEED Microloan Orientation - Waterford, Wednesday, August 08, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 08, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;This workshop is free, but pre-registration is required. &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320058"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320058</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:15:48 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Sterling Heights - AM, Wednesday, August 08, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC - Macomb, Velocity, Sterling Heights&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 08, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.  Macomb County Residents attend Free, all others pay $30.00&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: A certified business couselor.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320022"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320022</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC - Macomb, Velocity, Sterling Heights</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 08:07:02 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Twitter for Business (Beginner) - Waterford - PM, Wednesday, August 08, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 08, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Introduction to Social Media Marketing and using Twitter for Business
Millions of people are using Twitter and social media for fun, but it is also a powerful business tool that can connect you with your customers, potential customers and the world.  
Social media is a two-way marketing channel-a conversation with your customers.  With social media marketing and Twitter you can leverage these conversations and relationships to: increase brand visibility and reach, be established as a thought leader and expert in your field, give real time customer service, stay on top of industry trends and conduct competitive research, build brand advocates, and yes- you can see a measurable ROI-even sales!
But before you jump in to Twitter and start using social media, learn how to get these results with an introduction to social media marketing and Twitter for business.

What you will learn:
.How to sign yourself and/or your business up for Twitter
.How to set up your account and profile and choose the best Handle (user name)
.How to navigate Twitter
.Twitter lingo
.How to find (the right) people and business to follow
.How to use lists to manage who you follow as well as your followers
.How to Tweet, ReTweet, Mention, and Direct Message other users
.Use of Hashtags
.Twitter Privacy
.How to protect yourself and your brand on Twitter
.How to establish and  track your digital footprint
.How to stay on top of social media and Twitter trends
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Salina Washington&lt;br /&gt;Pre Registration is highly recommended.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320059"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320059</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:16:45 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Team SBA Financing Roundtable  - Waterford - AM, Thursday, August 09, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, August 09, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;Before you apply for a business loan, we recommend that you first attend this 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, we'll 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.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBA/Business Banker/Oakland County Business Counselor/Oakland County Business Finance Corporation Loan Officer&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration is strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320060"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320060</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:17:31 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Livonia, Thursday, August 09, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, August 09, 2012 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320065"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320065</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 10:05:42 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Waterford - PM, Thursday, August 09, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Thursday, August 09, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.
&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: SBTDC staff&lt;br /&gt;Pre-registration and pre-payment are strongly recommended.  Seating is limited.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 30.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320061"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320061</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:20:29 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Friday, August 10, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Michigan Works!, North Pointe Plaza, Bay City&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Friday, August 10, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Delta College; Bay County Clerk; Bay Area Chamber of Commerce; Alice &amp; Jack Wirt Public Library; Michigan Works!; Bay Future Inc.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320029"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320029</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Bay County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Michigan Works!, North Pointe Plaza, Bay City</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:05:09 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> 5 Keys to Achieving Fiscal Fitness - Livonia, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;Fiscal Fitness will assist business owners understand and use their financial information to advance and grow their company. The ideal participant in Fiscal Fitness will have 2-3 years of financial history and be pursuing financing or having challenges with cash flow. 

Who should attend: 
CEOs and owners of businesses with two or more years of financial history who want to have a better understanding of how to use their financial statements to make better business decisions. 

Topics include how to: 
. Use your Balance Sheet and Income Statement in managing your business
. Use breakeven analysis to improve your decision-making 
. Find the source of your cash flow problems
. Increase your company's cash flow 
. Get the banker on your side
&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Fifth Third Bank&lt;br /&gt;To register and pay for this seminar, please complete the following two steps:

1. Pay online through Schoolcraft College by clicking "Register online at the Schoolcraft College web site".
2. Click on "Click here to register for this event" and complete the form.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 25.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320050"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320050</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 10:06:14 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business - Lansing, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Kellie Hanford, Certified Business Consultant&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310105"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=80310105</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Ingham County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC Capitol Region Office, Lansing Community College - Washington Court Place, Lansing</author>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 15:58:46 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Going to the Bank - Warren - AM, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Macomb County MI-SBTDC in Warren, Business Resource Center, Warren&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Finance&lt;br /&gt;Funding is critical to business success. Learn about funding connections and how to approach financial institutions.&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Don Morandini, Regional Director&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Michigan Business &amp; Professional Association and Michigan Food &amp; Beverage Association&lt;br /&gt;Due to limited seating please pre-register online. For more information contact NaTasha Jones at 586-393-8800 or Denise Mentzer at 586-469-5118.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320047"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320047</link>
      <category>Finance</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Macomb County MI-SBTDC in Warren, Business Resource Center, Warren</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 08:10:48 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website: AM Session, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through:

- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website
If you're planning to create a website at the event, here's how you can prepare:

1. Sign up for a free Google account.
2. Pick three options for your domain name (this is your web address, such aswww.example.com).
3. Write down a one sentence and one paragraph description of your business.
4. Gather relevant digital photos and bring these on a USB drive for easy upload.

For more information, visit http://www.michigangetonline.com/faq&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Registration will be from 9:30 am - 9:45 am followed by the SBTDC welcome at 9:45 am. The Build Your Free Website session will begin at 10:00 am.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320083"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320083</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 13:28:57 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online: AM Session, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. 

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Registration will be from 9:30 am - 9:45 am followed by the SBTDC welcome at 9:45 am. The Grow Your Business Online session will begin at 10:00 am.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320082"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320082</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 13:31:33 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Michigan Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website: PM Session, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Get Your Business Online, Build Your FREE Website:

Google is partnering with Intuit to provide easy-to-build websites, a customized domain name and web-hosting for one year. 

Create and publish a website for your business using Intuit Sitebuilder. The workshop, using the computer lab, will walk you through:

- Setting up your free website account
- Registering a domain name (your "address" on the web)
- Selecting a website template and learn how to customize it
- Publishing your website
If you're planning to create a website at the event, here's how you can prepare:

1. Sign up for a free Google account.
2. Pick three options for your domain name (this is your web address, such aswww.example.com).
3. Write down a one sentence and one paragraph description of your business.
4. Gather relevant digital photos and bring these on a USB drive for easy upload.

For more information, visit http://www.michigangetonline.com/faq&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Registration &amp; Welcome:  11:30 to 11:45 AM
Build Your FREE Website Online:  11:45 AM to 1:15 PM (Computer Lab)&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320084"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320084</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 13:28:18 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Michigan Grow Your Business Online: PM Session, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Google Workshop&lt;br /&gt;Michigan Grow Your Business Online, Discover how to get found and attract customers:

Michigan businesses can learn more about Google's top tools for small businesses, including Google Search, Google+, Google Analytics, Google Alerts and Google Apps. 

- Learn the basics of how other people find your business online, with methods like search engine optimization (SEO), web analytics and more.
- Run your business more efficiently with online tools, including applications for improving collaboration and communication. &lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Google Experts&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: SBTDC&lt;br /&gt;Registration &amp; Welcome:  11:30 to 11:45 AM
Grow Your Business Online:  11:45 AM to 1:15 PM &lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320085"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=97320085</link>
      <category>Google Workshop</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Schoolcraft College  MI-SBTDC, Business Development Center, Livonia</author>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 13:28:30 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business + FTNV Orientation - Flint PM, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;I-69 Trade Corridor Regional Office - Flint - Counseling &amp; Training Site, Kettering University, Campus Center, Flint&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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. 

BONUS ORIENTATION:  FastTrac New Venture Orientation has been combined with the Fundamentals of Starting.  You'll learn about the FastTrac New Venture 7 week "boot camp" that provides a guided evaluation and planning process to develop a business concept and complete an actionable business plan.  In addition to reading and research activities, FastTrac offers experiential learning, opportunities to network with peers, and interact with consultants and guest entrepreneurs.  Due to the interactive nature of the course, FastTrac NewVenture class size in Flint is limited to 24 participants and will be filled "first come, first served" based on date of registration and completion of two prerequisite classes prior to session start.  This Fundamentals + Orientation satisfies the prerequites to participate in FastTrac New Venture.  For more information and registration, go to:  http://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320029&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Staff&lt;br /&gt;Kettering University, Corner of Chevrolet and University Avenues, Flint, MI -- Campus Center, Room 5-200.  Specific instructions for parking will be emailed to you upon registration.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320067"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=60320067</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Genesee County</category>
      <author>Business Training: I-69 Trade Corridor Regional Office - Flint - Counseling &amp; Training Site, Kettering University, Campus Center, Flint</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:43:51 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business Workshop, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Jefferson East Business Association - MI-SBTDC East Detroit Outreach Office, Detroit&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Tuesday, August 14, 2012 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 35.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=92320009"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=92320009</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Wayne County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Jefferson East Business Association - MI-SBTDC East Detroit Outreach Office, Detroit</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:47:17 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan - Mt. Clemens - AM, Wednesday, August 15, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 15, 2012 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Plan&lt;br /&gt;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.  
PLEASE NOTE: Macomb County Residents attend FREE, all others pay $40.00&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: A certified business counselor.&lt;br /&gt;Metered parking ($0.25 per 1/2 hour -- Quarters, only) is available adjacent to the Macomb County Administration Building, 1/2 block south of the intersection of Main and Cass Streets -- enter off Main Street.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320032"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=100320032</link>
      <category>Business Plan</category>
      <category>Macomb County</category>
      <author>Business Training: MI-SBTDC  - Macomb, 9th Floor Conference Room, Mount Clemens</author>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 07:58:36 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title> Fundamentals of Starting a Business, Wednesday, August 15, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Hoyt Library, Saginaw&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 15, 2012 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Business Start-up&lt;br /&gt;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.  Offered multiple times across the region.  Cost: Free!&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: MI-SBTDC Business Consultant and Hoyt Library Reference Librarian&lt;br /&gt;Co-Sponsor: Public Libraries of Saginaw, Saginaw Future Inc., Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and Michigan Works!&lt;br /&gt;Fee: Free&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320018"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=50320018</link>
      <category>Business Start-up</category>
      <category>Saginaw County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Hoyt Library, Saginaw</author>
      <pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:09:28 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title> Twitter for Business (Intermediate) -Waterford - PM, Wednesday, August 15, 2012 </title>
      <description>Where: &lt;b&gt;Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford&lt;/b&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;When: &lt;i&gt;Wednesday, August 15, 2012 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM&lt;/i&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Topic: Marketing and Sales&lt;br /&gt;Create your Twitter Strategy
In this Intermediate session of Twitter for Business you will:
.Establish your social media objectives and goals for Twitter
.Create your Twitter social media marketing strategy and schedule 
.Integrate Twitter into your marketing strategy

What you will learn:
.Core strategies and tactics businesses are using to get customers talking through Twitter
.How to use social media management tools 
.How to schedule tweets in advance
.How to use social media search tools for optimizing the timing and reach of your tweets
.How to use social media monitoring tools and leverage them for your Twitter strategy 
.How to use social media search tools to find and track people talking about your company/product/industry
.How to respond ethically and effectively to brand supporters and detractors
.How to manage your digital footprint-connecting Twitter with your website and other social media platforms
**The prerequisite for this session is Twitter for Business (Beginner)&lt;br /&gt;Speaker: Salina Washington&lt;br /&gt;Pre Registration is highly recommended.&lt;br /&gt;Fee: $ 40.00&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320062"&gt;Link&lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <link>https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=94320062</link>
      <category>Marketing and Sales</category>
      <category>Oakland County</category>
      <author>Business Training: Oakland  County Business Center MI-SBTDC, Executive Office Building, Waterford</author>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:15:13 GMT</pubDate>
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