Testimonials from 2023 Participants

“I feel so fortunate to have been selected to attend the Entrepreneurial Training Program.  I have wanted to open a retail store for quite some time but really didn’t know where to begin and what was needed to make this dream a reality.  The program consisted of textbook information, PowerPoint presentations, group discussions, and videos.  It was easy for all types of learners to absorb, process, and retain the information.  

One of my favorite parts of the program was the guest speakers.  The speakers were experts in legal issues, insurance, banking, marketing, etc. They covered topics and information that I had not even thought to consider.  I found the information presented to be invaluable. 

Ann was instrumental in helping me develop my business plan and connecting me with Ray to assist with the budget and business projections.  Ray tirelessly answered all of my questions and did an excellent job of suggesting and pulling market research, data, and resources so that I could add accurate statistics and current trends to my plan. 

Everything that I learned during the course helped me to make intentional decisions every step of the way in my business-planning.  The instructors were well-prepared, good listeners, supportive, and patient when it came to addressing our concerns and answering our questions.  They also weren’t afraid to offer constructive feedback to ensure that we looked at our business plans with open eyes and knew all of the potential risks. 

The support did not end when the class ended.  I invited Ann to the ribbon-cutting of my store which occurred 7 months after the course ended.  I was surprised when she not only came to the ceremony but also brought along two of her colleagues as well.  It meant so much to me to see them and hear the positive feedback and continued support. 

Launching a business can be an incredibly scary thing to do.  I feel like this program empowered me to make informed business decisions, expanded my network of local professionals and gave me the tools that I needed to succeed in my new venture.  I would recommend the program to anyone considering starting their own business.”

Heather Gross, Director of Operations at Wildflower Outdoors