The Bellingham Business Journal

A six-week class to help entrepreneurs plan the successful launch of a small business begins April 21 at Whatcom Community College.

“Six Weeks to Business Start-Up” is taught by Bill Pate, an accountant and owner of Bookkeeping Solutions NW in Lynden. Pate’s class will guide participants from their original business concept to planning for future growth. It will cover legal and licensing issues, taxes, hiring employees, leasing, business identity and branding.

“Anyone thinking of starting a small business will have a much better chance of success after learning some basics and making plans to guide them,” Pate said.

Pate is president of the Washington Chapter of the National Association of Tax Professionals. Before starting his own business, Pate was a tax attorney and also worked as a controller for a technology company and a retail department store chain.

“Six Weeks to Business Start-Up” will meet from 6-9 p.m. Wednesdays from April 21 to May 26. To register, call WCC Community Education at (360) 383-3200 or visit www.whatcomcommunityed.com.