Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country | Founded 05-05-05

March 6, 2008 issue

Free Entrepreneur Workshop Series Begins April 1

Registration Deadline March 25

Do you have a business idea, but aren't sure where to go next? One option is to make plans to attend a free workshop series offered to entrepreneurs in the High Country.

Watauga County and the Appalachian Regional Development Institute (ARDI) have paired up to promote entrepreneurship and small business development through the Watauga Entrepreneur Development Partnership (WEDP).

The WEDP will offer a series of free workshops for aspiring business people looking for that extra push forward to try out their business dream. The workshop instructors are two professors from Appalachian State University's Walker College of Business who specialize in teaching entrepreneurship. Throughout the workshops, participants will learn business skills and receive resources necessary to take the next steps for beginning a business.

Participants will assess their interests and skills as well as discuss the pros and cons of entrepreneurship and self-employment. In addition, participants will work in groups to discuss business ideas and review business needs in the community. The second and third workshops will help participants begin the process of turning an idea into an actual business by working on the elements of their business plan. During the third workshop, the participants will be paired with an established businessperson or consultant who will provide first-hand information and real-world advice. These mentors have volunteered their time and expertise.

The upcoming workshop series is the eighth series offered to aspiring entrepreneurs in the region. Its tremendous success proves that entrepreneurs are both prevalent in the High Country and are willing to take a chance when they find a supportive community.

The first in the series of three free workshops begins Tuesday, April 1, with successive workshops on Tuesday, April 15, and Tuesday, May 6. All workshops are held from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Appalachian Enterprise Center located next to the Watauga County Human Services Center and Senior Center at the intersection of King Street and Poplar Grove Connector. The workshops are offered as a series—not as individual classes. There is no charge to participate in any of the workshops, but registration is required. The registration deadline is Tuesday, March 25.

If you would like to reserve a slot in the upcoming workshop series, register online at www.ardi.appstate.edu/abc/brochure.php. If you have any questions, contact Chilton Rogers at 828-262-6662 or rogersc@appstate.edu.

 

Want To Go?

Dates: Tuesdays, April 1, April 15, May 6
Time: 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Appalachian Enterprise Center
Cost: Free, registration required by Tuesday, March 25