Boot Camp to Start New Businesses

FastTrac training starts in Bay County on September 17, 2010

May 27, 2010
By: O. J. Cunningham

University Center, Mich. - The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC), Region 5 at Delta College in partnership with Saginaw CRA Bankers Forum and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) is launching FastTrac® NewVenture training for those interested in starting a new business. FastTrac® NewVenture, a program of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, has been tailored for new entrepreneurs seeking to launch a business rather than finding another job or those looking for a new career option. During the nine session course, entrepreneurs will evaluate the feasibility of their business concept, make many contacts, including peers, resources and mentors, and learn to operate a profitable business, attract new clients or customers, retain employees, and improve service and product offerings. "By providing the FastTrac programs statewide, we are providing an opportunity for local entrepreneurs to hone the skills needed to create, manage and grow a successful business during a challenging economy," said Carol Lopucki, State Director of the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center.

The FastTrac® NewVenture statewide program was launched in June of 2009. Raymond Nowak, now owner of a computer repair service, is one of 527 entrepreneurs that went through the program in 2009. "When I took the class I wasn't sure if I was ready to start my own business. The program helped me focus on one of my business ideas, and it allowed me to test my business plan with professionals and participants in the class," stated Raymond. "The NewVenture program gave me confidence and the tools to start my own business."

"Michigan is committed to creating a supportive and robust culture of entrepreneurship that will strengthen and diversify the state's economy," Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) President and CEO Greg Main stated. "Our partnership with the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center will be a driving force in this effort, empowering small business owners and entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and helping them to succeed." The MEDC's funding will allow the SBTDC to deliver the program across the remainder of the state, which makes for a seamless statewide delivery.

The FastTrac® NewVenture program costs $700 per participant. Thanks in part to MEDC's funding, participants will be responsible for paying only $100 (NON-REFUNDABLE) before deadline September 10, 2010. The fee includes training sessions, materials and all business tools.

The program will begin September 17, through November 19, 2010, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays at Delta College, 1961 Delta Road, University Center in Bay County. Prerequisites: attend an Entrepreneurial Series Fundamentals of Starting a Business seminar and a mandatory FastTrac® NewVenture Orientation July 22 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.; August 11 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.; or August 31 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Delta College. Fundamentals of Starting a Business seminars are offered at low and no-cost throughout the state; visit www.misbtdc.org/training to locate and register for prerequisites near you before September 10, 2010.