TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE, MONEY, AND CAREER!
This business builder course is valuable for anyone thinking about starting a business OR anyone who has been in business but needs to sharpen their business skills in order to be more productive and profitable. These classes are interesting, interactive and packed with meaningful information.
These business support services are brought to you through a partnership including: North Mason Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Council of Mason County, Washington State University Mason County Extension, Mason County, and Enterprise for Equity. And are available to Mason County residents only through special funding by the Washington State Community Development Block Grant Program with federal funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Steps
First Step: Information Session (90 minutes)
This session is a great opportunity to see if this course will be a good fit for you. Information sessions are held regularly throughout the year. These orientations are free to the public and provide background information about our training program, entrepreneurial support services and our organization. It is also a place to gain some knowledge about prospective participants, answer questions and provide introductory materials. PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU OR YOUR ORGANIZATION ARE INTERESTED IN HOSTING AN INFORMATION SESSION.
If you are interested in registering for an Information Session, which is the gateway into the Business Readiness Workshop and Business Planning Program, please fill out the Intake Form
Second Step: Business Readiness Workshop (2 days)
This two-day workshop is a wonderful way to explore both self-employment and business ideas. It provides to those who are interested in starting or enhancing a small business the information they will need to decide whether they want to participate in our classes. We will look at what is required to launch or grow a business – risks, costs, and rewards and the commitment and hard work necessary to succeed in the Business Planning Program and in business.
- September 8-9, 2018 from 9-5pm
Third Step: Business Planning Program (10 weeks)
Our very experiential course covers all of the main areas of business planning, including marketing, pricing, competition, customer service, financial planning and record-keeping. In addition, the planning program gives participants practical, hands-on experience in developing their business plans. Specialists in the different areas of the training present periodically. Participants gain many skills in addition to the business planning tools they need for their small businesses. These skills impact their confidence level, self-esteem and organization as they refine their presentation of their products and services.
How long does the training last? The classes meet for 4-5 hours in the evening, on a weekly basis for several weeks (generally between 10-12). The whole process takes approximately 2-3 months to complete. The homework in the class creates the foundation of the business plan.
Requirements
What Does It Cost?
These programs are FREE for Mason County Residents!
They are available to Mason County residents only through special funding by the Washington State Community Development Block Grant Program with federal funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Eligibility
While there are a few exceptions, generally those who live in Mason County whose annual household income falls under the numbers below are eligible for these trainings:
- 1 person household: 34,800
- 2 person household: 39,800
- 3 person household: 44,750
- 4 person household: 49,700
- 5 person household: 53,700
- 6 person household: 57,700
Other Workshops
Money 101
Do you know what you need to know about spending and saving money? This workshop has the power to transform lives! Money can create new possibilities, less stress, and more joy. With solid information, support and a good plan, this class can help you avoid making expensive mistakes.
- Step out of the paycheck-to-paycheck rat race
- Repair and build good credit
- Untangle money messes
- Make doable plans for big things like home ownership or retirement
- Create a positive relationship to money
- Make more money doing work you love and much more…
Dependable Strengths
A two-day workshop for job seekers, entrepreneurs, coaches, and career counselors. This empowering experience will enhance your ability to:
- Identify fulfilling careers
- Build a job-finding action plan
- Develop networking tools to explore “hidden income opportunities”
- Communicate your value to anyone seeking your services
- Prepare for interviews & meetings
- Demonstrate your value as an employee or an entrepreneur!