Services
GROW has 4 Program Components:
1. Small Business Readiness and Entrepreneurial Training
This component helps you evaluate your readiness to own a business and the viability of your business idea.
Business Readiness Assessment
The Business Readiness Assessment is comprised of a free Introduction to Business Ownership (held the first Tuesday of every month) and a 2-part "Start Smart" business fundamentals session at a nominal fee ($70.00), followed by a one-on-one business readiness counseling session to help you determine your next classes and steps.
"Minding Your Own Business" (MYOB)
MYOB meets twice weekly for 10 weeks to help women develop the skills and acquire the knowledge needed to operate a business and to write a business plan. Topics include accounting, bookkeeping, marketing, business writing, taxes, financial analysis, and sales. Most classes are taught by professionals and emphasize hands-on application.
The next session of MYOB will begin on February 16, 2008. In order to apply for a seat in the class, you must attend the FREE Introduction to GROW (offered the first Tuesday of every month from 6 to 7 PM and the second Thursday of every month from 12 to 1 PM), a Start Smart 1 & 2 series (offered monthly), and schedule a one-on-one business readiness counseling session prior to the end of January, 2008.
GROW will be offering a summer series scheduled for May 31 (all-day Retreat)through August 7, with classes meeting Mondays and Thursdays from 6:00 to 9:00. The fall series will begin in September.
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2. Business Support Services
Services are available to help you maintain your new or growing business in both individualized and group formats.
Business Counseling
Counseling offers an opportunity for one-to-one consultation in the areas of marketing, finances, and all other business management topics.
UpClose Seminars
UpClose Seminars zero in on topics of interest to small business owners and give participants the benefit of straight talk from people in the field. Seating is usually limited to allow for individualized advice. A nominal fee is charged.
Roundtable Series: "Lunch with Punch!"
FREE networking and support group held the THIRD Wednesday of each month, noon to 1:00 PM. Topics vary. Bring your lunch, your business cards, a friend, and we'll supply the punch! Attend 5 sessions, and lunch is on us for the 6th one (need not be 5 consecutive sessions)! Call 616-458-3404 to reserve your spot today (seating is limited). All roundtables will be held at GROW. See calendar page for a list of scheduled topics.
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3. Economic Literacy Training
Economic Literacy is a series of seven weekly classes. Those interested must attend the (FREE) Introduction to Business Ownership class (held monthly the first Tuesday of every month). Call the GROW office for current schedule.
Economic Literacy Training
Economic Literacy is intended to improve women's ability to discuss, act upon, and react to the events that shape the economic well-being of themselves and their families. Class topics include an overview of the economy and banking institutions, financial planning and asset accumulation methods, how to read credit reports, budgeting and debt repair, and more.
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4. Individual Development Accounts
IDAs are matched savings accounts dedicated to building assets for small business start-up or expansion. Local funders contribute to a qualified participant's account on a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio to boost economic power and pride. Prerequisite: completion of the Economic Literacy class. Click here to get more information on IDAs.
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