One-on-one Counseling
Our well-trained business counselors will work with you to develop
an individual plan, taking advantage of our flexible services
and referrals to many other opportunities. We can help with entrepreneurial
readiness assessment, business feasibility assessment, networking,
accounting, record keeping and research. If you already have a
business we offer 'second phase' counseling whether that is referral
to more specialized resources or in-depth counseling on business
topics.
Classroom Training
NxLevel® Business Plan Basics is a 15 session course and is
offered at regular intervals. Micro-business Development Program
offers a comprehensive training program designed to introduce
clients to micro-business and business plan development.
The small business curriculum was developed by assembling an experienced
team which then created a program with the goal of exploring the
ability to achieve self-sufficiency through self-employment.
Participants will learn:
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What it takes to be a successful entrepreneur
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How to develop and test their business concept
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How to select the best business concept
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How to select the best business entry option
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How to organize and manage their business
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How to research and market their business
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How to understand and get their financials in order
- How and where to get funding for their business
- How to understand the feasability of their business concept
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Networking with other entrepreneur
Seminars
Classroom training is supplemented by shorter seminars on topics
ranging from "Selling Basics," to "Creating a Customer Database."
Shorter seminars vary in topic and frequency from region to region.
Please contact your regional MBDP for further information.
Loan Packaging
Loan applications inevitably require formal business plans, so
MBDP counseling frequently begins with creation of the plan. At
the same time, staff will guide the individual in evaluating the
validity of the business concept and her/his own readiness to
undertake self-employment. This evaluation allows MBDP to make
the best recommendations to the client regarding next steps and
continued training.
Job Start, a program
of the Vermont Economic Development Authority, is an ideal funding
option for individuals who have exhausted conventional sources
of credit that may be available, such as banks or credit unions,
and who lack the personal assets to undertake their self-employment
project.
Market Research and Analysis
Each region has a Market Research Center with research resources
including computer, Internet access and scanner. Along with assistance
from a business counselor, participants can research their market
or create marketing materials.
