News Archives 2008 from the Saginaw Small Business Information Network:
If you have news items that you would like to see included in SSBiN News, please contact SSBiN at: support@SSBIN.ORG
nov 18, 2008
The Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center at Delta College is pleased to present a three part workshop designed to help you build your business plan. The sessions are designed to discuss and develop an in-depth Business Plan for entrepreneurial ventures. The workshop is appropriate for both the expansion of an existing business and the start of a new enterprise. The workshop provides information and thoughts on the details necessary to develop a business plan that will help focus your attention and provide guidance in starting, expanding and maintaining a small business.
A workbook is included in the cost of the workshop that includes copies of materials to be presented, and reference materials covering considerations for starting up a business and preparing a business plan. In addition, a business plan template is provided in hard copy and electronic format for participant use.
Class size is limited, pre-registration is required and full payment deadline is Friday, April 11, 2008. Register online at www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/region5, Training or MI-SBTDC 989.686.9597.
Three Sessions
Session One: Business/marketing strategies and focus
Session Two: Translation into financial projections
Session Three: Discussion and review of the business plan draft
Each session runs from 8:300 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: Delta College, H113
Cost: $79.00. Class size is limited.
Nov 19, 2008
Guide to Starting a Business - Bay City
A free Guide to Starting a Business seminar will be held Wednesday, November 19, 2008, at the Michigan Works! Service Center, North Pointe Plaza, 4061 North Euclid in Bay City from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m.
Attendance is free and recommended for those who would like to start a small business or those in business that would like to be acquainted with community and business resources.
The seminar is an overview of what it takes to start a business; where to go for information and assistance; the business plan and why you need one; licenses and permits; funding and the myth of "Free Money"; and resources available to help set up your business.
Pre-registration is preferred online at www.misbtdc.org click 'Training Events' - Calendar or call (989) 686-9597.
nov 20, 2008
Guide to Starting a Business - Saginaw
A free Guide to Starting a Business seminar will be held Thursday, November 20, 2008, at the Hoyt Main Library, 505 Janes Avenue in Saginaw from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
The seminar is for those who would like to start a small business or for those who would like to become acquainted with community and business resources.
Topics include what it takes to start a business, where to go for information and assistance, the business plan and why you need one, licenses and permits, funding and the myth of "free money," and resources available to help set up your business. Pre-registration is required online at www.misbtdc.org or call (989) 686-9597.
nov 24, 2008
Effective Communications in Business - Saginaw
A free Effective Communications in Business seminar will be held Monday, November 24th from 6 - 8:30 p.m. at Michigan Works!, 3875 Bay Road, Suite 7 in Saginaw.
Even though this is the communications age, too many communications leave the recipient making assumptions that lead to poor productivity, low morale, and worse. Be clear, concise, and consistent in your message to internal and external customers of your business through proper and effective use of meetings, letters, memos, faxes, e-mails plus other activities and documents in communicating your business.
Cost is free and pre-registration is required online www.misbtdc.org click 'Training Events' or call (989) 686-9597.
This free seminar is made possible, thanks in part to funding provided by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor - WIRED initiative.
Sept 24, 2008
Retail Store Buying & Inventory Management
An advanced seminar for those in charge of buying for a small to mid-size retail store. Learn how to calculate inventory turns, when to do markdowns, how to track sales and place buying according to category, and how to take advantage of buying discounts. When should you buy? What quantity? What is your pricing policy? This class is for store managers, small business owners, and buyers for small chain stores that stock the merchandise they sell. Basic accounting skills are necessary for those attending this seminar.
This seminar will be held Wednesday, September 24th at the Huron Area Technical (Skill) Center, 2260 S Van Dyke in Bad Axe from 3 - 7 p.m. Cost to attend is free, pre-registration is required online www.misbtdc.org click 'Training' or call (989) 686-9597.
Free training seminars and no-cost confidential small business counseling is made possible in the Thumb Area, thanks in part to funding provided by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor - WIRED initiative.
Sep 25, 2008
Guide to Starting a Business
A free Guide to Starting a Business seminar will be held Thursday, September 25, 2008, at the Hoyt Main Library, 505 Janes Avenue in Saginaw from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
The seminar is for those who would like to start a small business or for those who would like to become acquainted with community and business resources.
Topics include what it takes to start a business, where to go for information and assistance, the business plan and why you need one, licenses and permits, funding and the myth of "free money," and resources available to help set up your business. Pre-registration is required online at www.misbtdc.org or call (989) 686-9597.
Sep 26, 2008
The Truth About Loans - A Financing Roundtable
If you are serious about seeking financing for your business, you owe it to yourself to attend a Financing Roundtable presented by TEAM SBA before you apply for a business loan. The roundtables are a no-cost loan orientation conducted by TEAM SBA; SBA lenders, business consultants, SBA economic development staff, and business owners like you.
We'll debunk the myths and demystify the process of bank financing; explain how the lending process works and what is expected of you; and show how the SBA can assist local lenders with its 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.
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 years, TEAM SBA has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs gain a better understanding of the financing process.
The free seminar is Friday, September 26th, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Delta College, 1961 Delta Road, Room H101, University Center, Michigan 48710. Pre-registration is required online at www.misbtdc.org or call (989) 686-9597.
Oct 2, 2008
Guide to Starting a Business
A free Guide to Starting a Business seminar will be held Thursday, October 2, 2008, at the Grace A Dow Memorial Library, 1710 W St Andrews, Conference Room B in Midland from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
The seminar is for those who would like to start a small business or for those who would like to become acquainted with community and business resources.
Topics include what it takes to start a business, where to go for information and assistance, the business plan and why you need one, licenses and permits, funding and the myth of "free money," and resources available to help set up your business. Pre-registration is required online www.misbtdc.org or call Midland Area Chamber of Commerce (989) 839-9901 or MI-SBTDC™ (989) 686-9597.
Oct 13, 2008
Marketing Your Business
A free training seminar Marketing Your Business will be held Monday, October 13th from 6 to 8:30 p.m.at Michigan Works!, 1409 Washington Street in Midland.
A clearly defined marketing strategy is the key to building a presence in the marketplace and is essential to the growth and success of your business. Learn the fundamentals of marketing and the primary tools for your business to secure its spot in the marketplace. Key topics covered include: importance of marketing, the marketing concept, basic aspects of a marketing plan, and available resources. This seminar is for business owners, sales consultants, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Cost is free, pre-registration is required online www.misbtdc.org or call (989) 686-9597.
This free training seminar is made possible in part thanks to a grant from WIRED funding program.
Oct 30, 2008
Who is your perfect customer, and how can you reach them? What is the best form of advertising for your particular type of business? Did you know your best source of new business is the least expensive to reach? Learn all about cross promotions, effective couponing, direct mail, referral marketing and more free or low cost ways to promote your business! Learn how and why to track results of all advertising expenses. Maximize your co-op and pocket the savings! How to determine an advertising budget and marketing plan.
This seminar, Spend LESS on Advertising, Get MORE Results!, will be held Thursday, October 30, at Michigan Works!, 3875 Bay Road, Suite 7 in Saginaw from 6 - 8:30 p.m. to answer those questions. Cost is free, pre-registration is required online www.misbtdc.org click 'Training Event' or call (989) 686-9597.
Free training seminar is made possible, thanks in part to funding provided by a grant from the U.S. Departmetn of Labor - WIRED initiative..
March 25, 2008
Course: Starting a Home-based or Small Business
The next 10-week program will begin April 23, 2008, from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. The program teaches the basics of starting and running a small business. instructors include Kathleen Tenwolde and guest instructors form the professional community.
Classes are at the Hoyt Main Library, 505 Janes Avenue in Saginaw. Cost of the class is $100. Partial scholarships, based upon need, are available as well as flexible payment plan. Class size is limited so register early. For more information please call Kathy at 989.754.2486.
To download the flyer (Word document), see the Downloads page.
Additional Dates:
New Spring 2008 Brochure
New Starting Homebased Biz Info
March 12, 2008
Team SBA Financing Roundtable
Before you apply for a business loan, we recommend that you first attend a Financing Roundtable. The roundtables are a free loan orientation session conducted by a business banker, a business consultant from the SBA's network of Small Business & Technology Development Centers , and an SBA representative. During the roundtable, TEAM SBA will: debunk the myths and demystify the process of small business financing; explain how the lending process works and what is expected of you; and show how the SBA can assist local lenders with its SBA Guaranteed Loan Program.
This session is best suited to those serious about seeking financing for their business, 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.
The roundtable is Friday, March 14, 2008, from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Delta College, 1961 Delta Road, H113 (H Wing), University Center and there is no cost to attend. Pre-registration is required (a roundtable may be cancelled due to low registration) online at www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/region5 click “Training” or call 989.686.9597.
Additional Dates:
march 12, 2008
This is the number one most requested seminar by both customers and business owners! Learn how to consistently deliver excellent customer service. Discover tips, techniques, and examples from those who increase their bottom line by making the customer feel appreciated, thereby building repeat business! The free Customer Service … It's the Little Stuff! seminar will take place from 6 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, Mar. 17, 2008, at the Mayville District Public Library, 6090 Fulton Street , Mayville.
For more information about this free seminar, other seminars, resources or to register online www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/region5 click “Training” or call (989) 686-9597 or (810) 622-9040.
Seminar sponsors are Mayville District Public Library and the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center at Delta College.
march 12, 2008
Learn how to invest in good people, and give them effective product knowledge and procedural training to get them off to a great start. Learn how to use commission, bonuses, perks, and rewards to motivate as well as non-financial rewards that pay off big. Learn methods of effective goal setting for your business, your team, and each salesperson. Avoiding “commission breath” in salespeople and infighting. Discover the benefits of building a motivational, educational library. Avoid perils of micro-managing your top salespeople, and learn how to get the best work out of each person. This is a follow up to the Success in Sales seminar and is geared toward managers, but is also excellent for self-motivated salespeople to attend.
The seminar will be held Tuesday, Mar. 25, 2008 at the Huron Area Technical Center , 1160 S Van Dyke, Bad Axe from 6 to 9:00 p.m. For more information about this free seminar, other seminars, resources or to register onlinewww.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/region5 click “Training” or call (989) 686-9597 or (810) 622-9040.
Seminar sponsors are Huron Area Technical Center and the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center at Delta College.
March 12, 2008
Two New Classes - Sandusky
Business owners will benefit from a partnership that will provide them with valuable, but inexpensive classes. The Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC ) at Delta College and the Sanilac Intermediate School District are pairing up to present 2 offerings beginning Thursday, March 20 at the Sanilac Career Center.
The first four-week session, “So You Want t o Own Your Own Business” provides information on business planning, including what it takes to start a business , the importance of marketing, and continuously improving the way business is conducted.
The second session, “Marketing Your Business” is ideal for business owners at any level. Attendees will learn the components of building a marketing plan and will be able to have a completed plan at the end of the four weeks.
“This class was offered in our Winter Session and was very well received,” stated Jill Western, Community enrichment Coordinator. “The presenter, Rita Dahmen, acquired a contract with the SBTDC, which led to the partnering agreement to offer the classes with more resources available to the attendees.”
Rita Dahmen is a contracted business counselor with the SBTDC, Region 5 , serving Sanilac County and the Thumb area.
Cost of each session is $60 and registration for the classes is available by contacting Jill Western at the Career Center at 810-648-4700, extension 209, or Mary Fraley at extension 266.
Feb 9, 2008
Building Your Business Plan: Three part workshop
The Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center at Delta College is pleased to present a three part workshop designed to help you build your business plan. The sessions are designed to discuss and develop an in-depth Business Plan for entrepreneurial ventures. The workshop is appropriate for both the expansion of an existing business and the start of a new enterprise. The workshop provides information and thoughts on the details necessary to develop a business plan that will help focus your attention and provide guidance in starting, expanding and maintaining a small business.
A workbook is included in the cost of the workshop that includes copies of materials to be presented, and reference materials covering considerations for starting up a business and preparing a business plan. In addition, a business plan template is provided in hard copy and electronic format for participant use.
Class size is limited, pre-registration is required and full payment deadline is Friday, April 11, 2008. Register online at www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/region5, Training or MI-SBTDC 989.686.9597.
Three Sessions
Session One: Business/marketing strategies and focus
Session Two: Translation into financial projections
Session Three: Discussion and review of the business plan draft
Each session runs from 8:300 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: Delta College, H113
Cost: $79.00. Class size is limited.
Additional Dates:
January 30, 2008
seminar, business plan basics - bad axe
A free Business Plan Basics Seminar will be held Wednesday January 30, 2008, at the Bad Axe Area District Library, 200 S. Hanselman Street, Bad Axe, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.w.
Attendance is free and recommended for those who would like to start a small business or those in business that would like to be acquainted with community and business resources. The seminar is an overview of what it takes to start a business; where to go for information and assistance; the business plan and why you need one; licenses and permits; funding and the myth of “Free Money”; and resources available to help set up your business.
Seminar sponsors are Bad Axe Area District Library, Huron County EDC, and Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center at Delta College.
For more information or Pre-registration is preferred to Huron County EDC (989) 269-6431 or register online at www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/region5 and click on Training or call (989) 686.9597.
Additional Dates:
january 31, 2008
Spend LESS on Advertising, Get MORE Results! - vassar
Who is your perfect customer, and how can you reach them? What is the best form of advertising for your particular type of business? Did you know your best source of new business is the least expensive to reach? Learn all about cross promotions, effective couponing, direct mail, referral marketing and more free or low cost ways to promote your business! Learn how and why to track results of all advertising expenses. Maximize your coop and pocket the savings! How to determine an advertising budget and marketing plan. Use your digital camera and e-mail accounts as free selling tools!
The seminar will be held at Bullard Sanford Memorial Library, 520 West Huron Avenue, in Vassar on Thursday January 31, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. There is no cost to attend and it is recommended you pre-register by visiting www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/region5 click on Training or call (989) 686-9597.
january 9, 2008
seminar, business plan basics - saginaw
A free Business Plan Basics Seminar will be held 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan 24, 2008 (additional dates below), at Hoyt Main Library, 505 Janes in Saginaw.
Attendance is free and recommended for those who would like to start a small business or those in business that would like to be acquainted with community and business resources. The seminar is an overview of what it takes to start a business; where to go for information and assistance; the business plan and why you need one; licenses and permits; funding and the myth of “Free Money”; and resources available to help set up your business.
Seminar sponsors are Public Libraries of Saginaw; Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center.
For more information, contact the library’s reference department, (989) 755-0904, or register online at www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/region5.
Additional Dates:
Thursday, Feb 28, 2008
Thursday, Mar 27, 2008
|
