June 07, 2007

SBDC to host 'Starting a Business' workshops

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. – The Illinois Small Business Development Center of Southern Illinois University Carbondale will sponsor three "Starting a Business in Illinois" workshops this summer, and registration is now under way.

Workshops are set for 9-11 a.m. June 20, 6-8 p.m. July 18 and 1-3 p.m. Aug. 15 in Room 150 at the Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center, 150 E. Pleasant Hill Road in Carbondale. The informational seminars provide general information needed to launch and manage a successful business. Discussion covers paperwork requirements, legal structure, finding financing, hiring employees and the basics of business planning.

"Anyone considering starting a business should really take the time to come to one of our workshops," said Robyn Laur Russell, director of the ISBDC. "These workshops take you through the logistics of starting a business and help entrepreneurs see if they think they have what it takes to launch and sustain a successful business. Research shows that the more planning put into the project on the front end, the better chances are for business survival. We want to give people the tools to succeed and see just what they can build with those tools."

The only charge is a $10 materials fee to cover the cost of the business startup kit that includes a business plan workbook, business startup checklist and a copy of the presentation slides along with other helpful materials and documents. To register or for more information call 618/536-2424 or e-mail ilsbdc@siu.edu. Online registration is available at www.southernillinois.biz