Learn how to start your own business at workshops

Unemployed individuals or others seeking a fresh start in establishing their own business can learn how to utilize their skills this fall during the "Start Your Business in Illinois" workshops hosted by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Elgin Community College.

The free workshops are held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, Aug. 20, Sept. 24, Oct. 22 and Tuesday Dec. 8, in the Fox Valley University and Business Center, Room UBC 103, on the ECC's Main Campus, at 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin.

"The current economic climate offers individuals an opportunity to work for themselves," said Kriss Knowles, center director and an experienced entrepreneur who teaches the workshop. "Offering these workshops to the public at no cost is a great incentive that allows them to begin on the path to job independence."

These workshops are ideal for individuals interested in starting their own business but are unsure where to begin. Participants will learn the importance of creating feasibility studies and business plans, both of which are essential steps in starting a new business. Topics also include available financing options; and where to get additional assistance at little or no charge.

In addition to the workshops, the center offers free small business startup tools on its updated Web page, www.elgin.edu/sbdc, that are available for download. The site includes links for a business plan workbook, feasibility checklist, answers to common questions about starting a business and guides for marketing plans, financial statements and managing cash.

For more information on the Illinois Small Business Development or to schedule a meeting with a business counselor, call (847) 214-7488.