In keeping with a mandate "to provide assistance and support to small and medium-sized businesses in both start-up and early-growth stages," the Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre (GBBEC) has a full lineup of training sessions available this winter.
"Our goal at the GBBEC is to provide entrepreneurs and new and existing small and medium-sized businesses with consistent assistance and support, to increase their success rate," said GBBEC manager Terri Plaxton-Smith.
March programming includes a business coaching session with Stephen Brydson entitled, "Get your year in gear." This four-week program, beginning March 1, includes two workshops and two personal coaching sessions for $129.
It is designed to get businesspeople out of their ruts and on to success.
A free seminar is scheduled for the afternoon of March 8, to help prevent identity theft (or recover an identity that has been stolen), protect assets upon a death or serious illness, and set up financial success.
A new program being offered in conjunction with Denise Herbert of DMH Public Relations and Communications, is specifically designed for self-employed individuals.
The "DMH Entrepreneurial Edge" is a series of workshops, beginning March 25, for entrepreneurs starting and/or running a small business in Ontario.
Consisting of four modules, it is set to run for six consecutive Saturdays.
The opening module will explore the decision-making process. It will explain the options available to would-be business owners and the nature of business philosophies and plan development.
Next business set-up and organizational development will be examined. Topics include licence requirements, location, start-up resources, business management, liability and capital needs.
The program wraps up by detailing business building and development strategies. Communications, marketing, sales and professional development are all dealt with in this module.
Cost for this program is $425, including GST. A $75 early-bird discount goes to registrants who book at least a month in advance.
The host of this program, DMH Public Relations and Communications, is a local business service.
"With the substantial economic growth, access to millions of people and the entrepreneurial spirit, drive and desire present in the Greater Barrie Area, there is a high demand for business resources and services and in particular, small business-training programs," says Herbert.
"With DMH Entrepreneurial Edge, entrepreneurs will have the information and tools they need to open, operate and develop a business."
All of these programs are being offered at the GBBEC offices, at 24 Maple Avenue, Suite 202. Participants can register by calling 705-720-2445.
Ongoing Networking Nights are held the third Thursday of each month from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., giving participants a chance to mingle and share information.
Registration forms are available online at www.barriebusinesscentre.ca. Students who are interested in starting a summer business may qualify for awards of up to $3,000 and the expertise of community mentors, under a provincial government initiative. The GBBEC website also provides more information and registration documents.
