A new program to help local entrepreneurs launch new businesses has just been approved for funding through the Washington State Employment Security Department’s Self Employment Assistance Program
Launch and Build Your Business, which is offered by Whatcom Community College, the Northwest Innovation Resource Center and Western Washington University’s Small Business Development Center, blends online instruction with live workshops and support services that provide participants the foundation to build new enterprises.
Through the three-month course, held on WCC’s campus in Bellingham, participants will learn the fundamentals of running a business, develop a complete business plan, and network with other business owners and professionals.
The organizers started the program in fall 2012 in response to client requests for start-up business development support.
“Some of the business people we’ve heard from have been successfully employed for years in other industries,” says SBDC Director Jennifer Shelton, in a press release. “They are looking for that extra information that will help them to make decisions and complete elements that are missing for a business launch, to explore accelerated concepts, and to connect with experts and other entrepreneurs in the region for encouragement and inspiration.”
The next round of classes starts April 16. A pre-course information session will be held from noon to 1 p.m. on April 2 at the SBDC’s downtown Bellingham office, 115 Unity St., Suite 101.
The $239 registration fee includes enrollment in Palo Alto Software’s Start, Run & Grow Your Business curriculum; participation and lunch at six biweekly roundtables, including interviews with local entrepreneurs; six-month subscription to Business Plan Pro’s LivePlan to write a business plan; and three textbooks.
To register, call 360-383-3200 or visit www.whatcom.ctc.edu/continuinged.
