Articles - Summer 2009 - return to index
Business Solutions: Business Center Offers a Smart Start
“I came in with many questions and walked out with knowledge and confidence. This is the best use of taxes I’ve ever been exposed to!” said Florence businesswoman Deborah Peters after her free consultation at the Lane Community College Business Development Center.
BDC advisors specialize in assisting potential and emerging business owners. Businesses receive concrete, down to earth advice, from highly experienced and enthusiastic advisors.
Often, beginning sessions cover market research, analysis of the business idea, and what it takes to make an idea work.
Existing business owners receive assistance with marketing, recordkeeping, business plans, product development, business growth issues, and related concerns. The working relationships build as the advisors and business owners continue to meet.
Advisors may share the expertise of others or refer clients to other local resources—whatever’s best for the business. Many people find the experience so beneficial that, as businessman Ron Tinsley put it, “I probably should have come here first, even before I started my business. The advisor was very insightful, answered all my questions and gave me some great options.”
Along with a wide breadth of knowledge within its advising staff, the BDC also offers a business lending library, classes, workshops, seminars and programs, all focused on entrepreneur education and business growth. The center also offers Construction Contractors Board self-study courses and instructor-led classes for people working to attain their contractor’s licenses.
“In this economy, can I be successful starting my own business?” That’s what many people ask. The answer may very well be, “absolutely yes,” depending on the business venture and the planning. After all, the BDC was born in the 1980s during the last recession, to advance entrepreneurial opportunities. Many of the companies developed during that time have grown and are still successful today.
If you’re thinking about starting a business or want help with the next step of your current business, visit the BDC. Learn more at LaneBDC.com.
