Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Workshop on its way for potential entrepreneurs

For people interested in starting a small business, a workshop will be held to help along the way.

Lonnie Jackson, director of the Small Business Development Center at Henderson State University, spoke with Rotarians about the program Thursday, May 8.

SBDC will be teaming up with the City of Gurdon, Southern Financial Partners, Cabe Foundation and Clark County to offer the First Step Fast Trac program in Gurdon.

The program is a practical, hands-on education workshop that provides the framework and tools for participants to explore their readiness and ability to be an entrepreneur, he said.

Those attending will develop a feasibility plan and evaluate their business concept. They will also explore issues related to key aspects of business during the class, in consulting sessions and through assignments completed outside of class. Participants will determine whether their idea has legs and if starting a business is the right decision.

A few titles of the programs courses include Gathering Information for Feasibility, Product and Services, Market Analysis: Industry and Competition, Price and Profitability: Profits and Plan for Further Action: Resources for success.

The 12-week program will be held from 5:15-8:15 p.m. on May 13, 20, 22, June 3, 10, 17, July 1, 8, 15, 24, 29 and Aug. 5. All sessions will be at Gurdon City Hall. There is a one-time application fee of $25, and limited scholarships are available.

For more information, please contact Jwan Baughn, SBDC training coordinator, at (870) 230-5184 or baughnj@hsu.edu