NORTH BEND, OR – Looking for a way to be more effective as a business owner?  Trying to finance your business?  Want to plan for business expansion, retirement or selling your business?

Beginning Thursday September 9, the Southwestern Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is offering a ten-session workshop that focuses on building a business on solid ground. Participants save time and avoid costly mistakes by learning how to grow a successful business and how to write a business plan to access funding. Participants learn why a business plan is important, how to use one and how to write an effective business plan that will get read. This valuable program provides an opportunity to share ideas with other entrepreneurs, learn business planning techniques, and locate resources helpful for business owners.

“This class is well worth the time and dollars,” said a previous participant. “I’d forgotten some of these concepts over the years and I look forward to putting this information to work in my business.”

The program’s format includes ten weekly evening workshop sessions featuring Pam de Jong as the facilitator. De Jong has an extensive background as a business leader in securities, administration, private consulting, and development. She also serves on the Board of Directors for two local non-profit organizations. As an added bonus in conjunction with the workshop, Chetco Federal Credit Union is sponsoring a “Write Your Business Plan” contest with cash prizes; first place is $300, second place is $125, and third place is $75.

30 hours of one-to-one business advising, as well as access to other SBDC resources, is included in the cost of the training.

Preregistration is required. The cost of the training is $100 for Bay Area Chamber Members, Tribal Businesses, Business Incubator Tenants, and participant referrals from local banks. All others are $289. The cost covers the complete program, as well as materials.

Those interested in or more information or registration can contact the SBDC at 541-756-6866.