Blog

September 8, 2008

New Small Business Institute Class Forming

Students from the Spring 2008 class learn about Business PlanningMetroAction has teamed up with the Wilkes University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the Wilkes-Barre Chamber to bring its successful Small Business Institute program to Luzerne County this fall. The Small Business Institute will be held at the Innovation Center @ Wilkes-Barre. on Tuesdays, October 7th to November 25th, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

The institute is an intense 2-month training program that utilizes the award winning Core Four® curriculum, including success, market, cash flow, and operations planning. This hands-on, common sense approach to small business development was designed to offer an entrepreneurial educational program like no other in this region.  Over the past three years, the program has graduated more than 75 entrepreneurs and managers.
 
“Training for the actual business side of the business in the beauty industry is non-existent,” states Amy Ghirelli, owner of Headquarters Salon & Coconut Grove Tanning, Scranton. “The Small Business Institute has given me a new outlook on the day-to-day structuring of the business. This program was extremely helpful.”
 
Challenges are abundant when it comes to developing and maintaining successful businesses. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, roughly 50% of small businesses fail within the first five years.

“Small business owners, both potential and existing, should have as many tools for success as possible, particularly in this very competitive economic environment,” states Ruth Hughes, Director of Wilkes University’s SBDC. “The Small Business Institute is an excellent way for entrepreneurs to gain valuable information and training in the areas that will give their businesses better chances for success.”
 
The Small Business Institute, sponsored by Community Bank & Trust Company and Bold Gold Media Group, takes place on Tuesday mornings, October 7 through November 25, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Innovation Center @ Wilkes-Barre. Cost is $149 per person. Seating is limited and registration is first-come, first-served and expected to fill quickly.

Register today for this comprehensive training program!