Want to open a business? Here's a place to start
The Illinois Small Business Development Center of McHenry County College is offering three seminars to help people planning to start a small businesses.
All three seminars will be held at the Shah Center, 4100 W. Shamrock Lane, McHenry.
For more information, call the Illinois SBDC at (815) 455-6098 or e-mail sbdc@mchenry.edu.
To register for any ISBDC seminar, call registration at (815) 455-8588.
• "Starting a Business in Illinois" is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday.
The cost of the seminar is $25, which includes course materials. Use course number NBD S21002 when registering.
"The 'Starting a Business in Illinois' seminar provides the tools that new or prospective business owners need," said Mary Margaret Maule, coordinator of the Illinois SBDC. The two-hour seminar will introduce those considering starting a business to many of the aspects of owning a business, including the attitude of an entrepreneur and the legal aspects of starting a business in Illinois.
Attendees will receive handouts that include agencies to contact, tax matters, a business plan outline and a checklist for going into business.
Participants also can schedule a one-on-one session for a more detailed consultation in addition to the class.
• "Where To Start? How To Choose Your Marketing Method" will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday.
The cost of the seminar is $39, which includes course materials. Use course number NBD S17001 when registering.
"How to use your marketing dollars is a decision that all small businesses face, but that choice can be difficult and confusing without knowing what your options are," said Catherine Jones, director of the Corporate Training and Business Development Center.
The seminar will provide an overview of various marketing methods and how to use them effectively. Topics to be covered include how to identify your customers, the best method for reaching them and how to measure the success of your marketing strategy.
• "How To Develop A Business Plan" is set from 7 to 10 p.m. on Sept. 19.
The cost of the seminar is $39, which includes course materials. Use course number NBD S26001 when registering.
"A solid business plan is a must for every company, both startup and existing," said Mary Margaret Maule, coordinator of the Illinois SBDC.
This three-hour seminar features details on creating and launching an effective business plan including short and long-term goals, marketing and financial strategies, and objectives. Experienced business consultants will guide students through the process of creating a strong business plan that will lay the groundwork for future success.