Articles - Winter 2008 - return to index
Partnering for sustainable economic development
-By Shirl Meads
Entrepreneurs and established businesses find great resources at the Lane Community College Business Development Center.
Last year, the BDC assisted 574 start-up businesses. These entrepreneurs capitalized on a variety of free or low cost services such as free business advising, low cost classes, workshops, and seminars. Long-term management programs were provided to owners of small businesses, farm businesses, and innovators of new services and products.
The Employee Training branch of the BDC trained 1,100 employees at more than 20 local businesses. Training covered a variety of topics such as compliance, technology, leadership and supervisory skills, industry specific skills, English as a second language, and effective business practices.
Participants praised the quality of the training. "LCC Employee Training helped me to stay up-to-date and competitive in a changing work market," said John Simpson of Versalogic.
Joe Conrow, a supervisor from Country Coach, said, "The Genuine Leadership class taught me to let my employees think for themselves. I have noticed there is better communication between employees and management among those who have taken the class. It has not only helped me at work, but at home too."
The center's strategy is to expand marketing, build stronger partnerships, and deliver superior services to help businesses compete in a local, national and global marketplace. The center stands behind its mission statement: To invest, support and advance Lane County’s economy by providing business development and customized training services.
For more information:
Lane Community College
Business Development Center
1445 Willamette Street, Eugene
(541) 463-5255
www.lanebdc.com
The Business Development center is conveniently located on Willamette Street next to the Eugene Chamber of Commerce.
