Programs

Programs and Services

Enhanced First Steps

offered in English and in Spanish
If you want to find out if small business ownership is right for you and if you need to brush up on basic excel skills required in preparing a business plan, then you should begin your training with this four part series.  Register Now!

What’s covered: The first two sessions answer the question, “Is Small Business Ownership Right for You?” They include characteristics of successful entrepreneurs, areas in which a business owner must gain expertise, and resource information for start ups. The second two sessions provide an introduction to computers and excel, in order to prepare clients for work on cash flow statements in our 15 week entrepreneurial training program.

15-Week Entrepreneurial Training Program

offered in English and in Spanish
If you have an idea for a business, some experience in the field, and basic computer skills, then this course is right for you.  Download application.

What’s covered:
 – How to Register a Business & other Legal Issues
 – Management
 – Finance
 – Marketing
 – Accounting
 – Credit and Insurance
 – How to Write a Business Plan
 – Computer Instruction

Participants prepare detailed and professional business plans and present them to an executive panel that includes representatives from the business and banking sectors.

Peer Exchange Program (PEP)

for recent graduates of our 15-Week Program
After graduation, continue to move your business forward by signing up for our PEP program. Join us for facilitated peer support, once a month for eight months.  Register Now!

What’s covered: This post-graduate program focuses on setting goals and objectives, developing realistic action plans, addressing obstacles, tracking progress, and celebrating successes.

On-going and Specialized Assistance

One-on-one Counseling – WEDC staff and entrepreneurial trainers are available for counseling sessions by appointment

Seminars, Workshops, and Webinars

Networking Opportunities

Business Training for Mature Adults 50+

Access to Capital Information – WEDC is not a lender, but we work closely with ACCIÓN USA and other alternative loan funds.

Certification and Procurement as a Minority and/or Woman Owned Business
(M/WBE or M/WOB) – Information and programs are provided for those who wish to do business with the government and corporations that have supplier diversity programs. Many M/WBEs become certified in order to enhance their business opportunities.

“WEDC’s 15 Week Entrepreneurial Program enabled me to achieve my goal of starting my own business. The program provided the skills and the discipline to complete a business plan that I could easily implement. As a result, Shore Grant Services is up and running and doing business. “

• Adie Shore, Shore Grant Services

Access to Capital Forum with Emily Alfieri- Weinberg of TD Bank