Sessions offer hands-on help for start-ups and existing businesses
Hudson, NY – Columbia Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) has announced applications are now being accepted for the organization’s annual MicroBusiness Seminar Series. This popular course will run October 6 – November 17. All classes will be held online via ZOOM, from 5:30PM to 7:00PM.
“Educating small business owners is part of a strategy to strengthen the Columbia County business community,” stated CEDC Business Development Specialist Martha Lane. “In addition to making small business loans, we offer the Microbusiness Seminar Series to ensure entrepreneurs know the basics about running a successful small business.”
The program sessions are taught by local professionals. Topics include marketing, bookkeeping, financing, and legal issues (see complete course list below).
“The MicroBusiness Seminar Series provides the tools and education necessary to develop not only a business plan but a strong sense of business leadership,” stated CEDC President and CEO F. Michael Tucker. “It’s an incredible opportunity to be coached by a dynamic and supportive team of local professionals.”
The $175 course fee is refunded in the form of a one-year membership in the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, or a gift card to Staples. Scholarships are available. Applications are available by calling CEDC at 518 828.4718 or on the CEDC website at www.columbiaedc.com.
2020 MICROBUSINESS SEMINAR SERIES
Session 39
All Classes Held via ZOOM
Tuesday evenings 5:30 – 7:00 PM
Session 1 – Tues., Oct. 6 – Business Basics
Realities of running a small business. Getting your business off the ground. Balancing your business and personal life. Working with challenging employees and customers. Economic realities of owning a business. Panelists: Patrick Kenny, Saisonnier; Seung Suh, Copake General Store; and Jeanette Nesel, Hudson Valley Malt
Session 2 – Tues., Oct. 13 – Laying the Groundwork
Pros and cons of business legal structures, including DBA’s, partnerships and various forms of incorporation. Property, casualty, workers’ compensation, NYS disability and other insurance topics. Presenter: Andrew Howard, Attorney, Freeman Howard PC
Session 3 – Tues., Oct. 20 – Financing Your Business
Capitalization, lines of credit, banks and banking relationships, alternative lending sources, including SBA Microloans.
Session 4 – Tues., Oct. 27 – Marketing 101
In a world where many activities are centered online, developing an effective digital marketing plan is important. Learn how to assess customer needs and utilize social media, search engine marketing, display advertising, content marketing, email, and more. Presenter: Joe Keenan, Adaptive Media Group
Session 5 – Wedn., Nov. 4 – Writing a Business Plan (CLASS MOVE TO WEDNESDAY DUE TO ELECTION DAY)
Tell the world about you and your business. Why a business plan is important. Learn how to write one that reflects your goals and sets deadlines for reaching them. Presenter: Brian Zweig, Business Opportunities Management Consulting
Session 6 -Tues., Nov. 10 – Staying Within the Lines
Small business bookkeeping, financial statements, income and expenses, and ways to stay compliant with the IRS. Presenter: Susan G. Baer, CPA, Baer Tax Group
Session 7 – Tues., Nov. 17 – Putting It All Together
Business updates from class participants. Sharing of Mission Statements. Transition to follow-up phases of the Microbusiness Program.
The $175 course fee is refunded in the form of a one-year membership in the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, or a Staples gift card. Scholarships are available. Applications are available by calling 518.828.4718 or online at www.columbiaedc.com.