GROW Calendar
 
grow business directory

Class Schedule

All events listed are held in the GROW Office unless otherwise noted. The GROW Office is located at 25 Sheldon, S.E., Suite 210 (YWCA).

Call (616) 458-3404 to register.

Intro to GROW (formerly Intro to Business Ownership)

Anyone interested in learning more about GROW is invited to attend a free class on the 1st Tuesday of the month (6:00 to 7:00 PM) or the second Thursday of every month (12:00 to 1:00 PM). Intro to GROW (formerly "Introduction to Business Ownership) is MANDATORY and the first step for anyone wanting to participate in a program. Registration is required--please call 458-3404 to reserve a seat in this class. Intro to GROW is held at 25 Sheldon SE (2nd floor--look for signs!).

  • June 3, 6:00 to 7:00 PM
  • June 12, 12:00 to 1:00 PM

Start Smart I

Life as an Entrepreneur.

Classes are held from 6:30pm-9:00pm.

  • No classes scheduled at this time.

Start Smart II

Can this Business Make Money?

Classes are held from 6:30pm-9:00pm.

  • May 15, 6:30 to 9:00 PM

Minding Your Own Business

  • Class 36 - May 31 to August 7, 6:00 to 9:00 PM

    This 10-week intensive program teaches students the basics of starting or expanding a business as they write a comprehensive business plan. The majority of classes are taught by volunteer facilitators who are professionals in their fields. Meets 2 nights per week (Mondays & Thursdays). Please note that the course will kick off with an all day retreat scheduled for Saturday, May 31 (9:00 to 3:00 PM) and will conclude with a graduation program (for the graduates, their guests, and anyone interested in attending; FREE, but please RSVP to 458-3404) scheduled for Wednesday, August 13th from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at the Loosemore Auditorium, DeVos Center, Grand Valley State University (Pew/Downtown campus).

Economic Literacy

  • Class 36 - June 9 to July 21, 6:00 to 9:00 PM

    This 7-week course takes a close look at the world of *personal* finance, covering such hard-hitting topics as credit & credit repair, preventing identity theft, rapid debt repayment plans, saving, budgeting, investing, communications & banking basics, and an overview of economics. This class is required for IDA participants and is also highly recommended for anyone looking to start a business....but on the right financial footing! Don't open a pandora's box of dealing with a second set of finances before you get your own personal financial house in order. Economic Literacy is offered three times per year; fall dates TBA.

UpClose Workshops

  • "Successful Business Ownership in a Busted Economy: How to Do Your Homework So Your Business Gets an A"

    May 20, 6:00 to 9:00 PM

    Jenny Shangraw (Information Resource Manager/Cybrarian at The Right Place, Inc.) will analyze the current state economy and share trends in the local and regional business world. She will also offer suggestions for staying on top of the changing market in order to successfully market your business to your clients. The use of available resources for business owners will also be covered including library tools, the Internet, and trade associations. Workshop participants will be studying the three pillars of market research: competition, industry, and identifying your target customer base. Jenny will speak on utilizing business research that you have completed in order to get the most out of your findings. This workshop is a must-have for businesses looking to stay strong despite a "busted economy."

Roundable Series: "Lunch with Punch!"

FREE networking and support group held the THIRD Wednesday of each month, noon to 1:00 PM. Topics vary. Bring a friend, bring your lunch, bring your business cards, and we'll supply the punch! Fill up a punch card by attending 5 sessions, and lunch is on us for the 6th one! Call 616-458-3404 to reserve your spot today (seating is limited). All roundtables will be held at GROW.

Classes are held from 12:00 to 1:00 PM.

  • May 21, 12:00 to 1:00 PM

    "Networking Opportunities"

  • June 18, 12:00 to 1:00 PM

    "Basic Business Skills"

Business Counseling 1:1

Call 458-3404 for a personal appointment.