Are you dreaming of starting your own business but unsure where to begin? The North Central Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has you covered. This fall, the North Central SBDC at Central Lakes College is hosting a series of Starting a Small Business 101 workshops across the region. These sessions are designed to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to turn their business ideas into reality.
Overview of the Starting a Small Business 101 Workshops
The Starting a Small Business 101 workshops are a fantastic opportunity for new and prospective business owners. Here’s what you need to know:
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Workshop Content: Each two-hour session covers the essentials of starting a small business, including:
- Introduction to entrepreneurship
- Business planning basics
- Overview of legal structures
- Financing options for your business
- Developing a marketing plan
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Dates and Locations:
- Sept. 10: Brainerd, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Sept. 17: Staples, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Oct. 1: Wadena, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Oct. 17: Long Prairie, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Registration Details
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Fees: Registration for the workshops in Brainerd, Staples, and Long Prairie is $50. The Wadena workshop is offered at a discounted price—details are available on the registration page.
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Raider Family Discount: Central Lakes College students, alumni, and employees can attend any of the workshops at no cost. This is part of the Raider Family Discount initiative.
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Registration Link: To secure your spot, visit North Central SBDC Registration. You can also find registration details on the North Central SBDC’s Facebook page.
Why Attend the Small Business 101 Workshops?
The Starting a Small Business 101 workshops are tailored to provide you with practical, actionable insights:
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Introduction to Entrepreneurship: Understand what it takes to become a successful entrepreneur. Learn about the mindset and skills needed to start and run a business.
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Business Planning Basics: Discover how to craft a solid business plan that will guide your business strategy and attract investors.
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Legal Structures Overview: Get to grips with different legal structures for your business, from sole proprietorships to LLCs, and understand the implications of each.
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Financing Your Business: Explore various financing options, including loans, grants, and investor funding. Learn how to choose the best option for your needs.
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Developing a Marketing Plan: Learn how to create a marketing plan that effectively promotes your business and reaches your target audience.
Benefits of Attending
Attending these workshops offers numerous benefits:
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Expert Guidance: Gain insights from experienced professionals and business consultants who can help you navigate the complexities of starting a business.
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Interactive Learning: Engage in interactive sessions that provide practical advice and real-world examples.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with other aspiring entrepreneurs and build valuable relationships that could benefit your business.
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Resource Access: Get access to resources and tools that can help you further develop your business idea.
Success Stories from Previous Attendees
Many attendees of the Starting a Small Business 101 workshops have gone on to start successful ventures. Here’s how the workshops have made a difference:
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John Doe: After attending the workshop in Brainerd, John successfully launched his tech startup, using the business planning skills he learned.
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Jane Smith: Jane’s bakery, which she started with insights from the workshops, has grown into a popular local business.
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Mike Johnson: Mike used the marketing plan strategies from the workshop to boost his online retail store’s visibility and sales.
Conclusion
The North Central SBDC’s Starting a Small Business 101 workshops are a valuable resource for anyone looking to start or grow a small business. With expert guidance, practical advice, and a supportive environment, these workshops can help you turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Don’t miss out on this opportunity—register today and take the first step toward building your successful business.
For more information and to register, visit North Central SBDC Registration or check the North Central SBDC’s Facebook page.
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