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Key Points to Starting a (Pagan) Business
When a person looks at his or her life, and realizes there are goals to be achieved, things to do, or services to be offered to the public unlike those available from other businesses, it may be the right time to start up a business.
The process of following through on such a idea, however, isn't necessarily easy. There is the matter of incorporation, partnership or sole proprietorship to be considered. There is the possibility of consulting an attorney or an accountant. The need for financing means approaching loan officers at a bank, which can be daunting.
There are many, many questions.
Where can a person turn to find answers?
The best way is to SCORE.
SCORE is an acronym meaning Service Corps Of Retired Executives. This is a group of former management, financial, legal and executive experts who donate their time to help those contemplating starting a business, or new in business, to make their dream a success. And they are serious about what they do.
The South Bend chapter, for instance, has won awards for their work. Their members have been interviewed for business articles on a frequent basis, and their knowledge - rolled all together - spans not just decades, but centuries worth of experience.
This experience is offered to those seeking answers on a confidential basis. No one has to worry about being thought foolish when calling SCORE to ask their questions. SCORE members can help individuals find the resources they need, the forms to submit, or just be a sounding board.
What's even better is that this knowledge is shared with anyone interested in a more formal setting. The seminars offered by SCORE are excellent ways to get an idea whether starting a business is really something feasible to pursue. The seminars are offered monthly; pre-registration is requested, and there is a $20 fee:
STARTING YOUR OWN SMALL BUSINESS
The prospective small business owner needs to determine the feasibility of his or her ideas before launching into a new venture. A written business plan, availbility of sufficient capital, and access to professional accounting and legal advice are vital to business success. This two-hour seminar covers many of the things that must be considered in starting and operating a small business in Indiana. Sources of business information, other educational sources and available business assistance services are pointed out.
1st Tuesday of every month 6:00-8:00 p.m./3rd Tuesday of every month 2:00-4:00 p.m.
PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS PLAN
The business plan is often called the "blueprint for success" because it forces an entrepreneur to think through his or her ideas and to be able to communicate them clearly. Without a good business plan you may find it difficult to obtain capital. The purpose of this two-hour seminar is to help you answer the following questions. What should your business plan contain? How much detail and in what order? What will make it effective in communicating your company's strengths and potential?
1st Tuesday of every month 2:00-4:00 p.m./3rd Monday of every month 6:00-8:00 p.m.
MARKETING FOR SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS
Marketing is the activity that helps an organization's prospective customers or clients understand what you have to offer and why they should do business with you. This two-hour seminar is designed to help even the smallest organization make effective use of its marketing efforts. Tips and techniques are presented for making the most of your small size and flexibility.
On a Thursday every month.Call for specific dates and times.
Besides SCORE, there is a wealth of information which can be found on the State of Indiana website, under the "Business Services" heading: www.in.gov. An extensive list of forms are available, including incorporation papers for both for-profit and non-profit businesses. A business name search function is offered, to ensure those new to business their chosen business name does not get confused with that of any other in the state.
With so many ways to find answers at one's fingertips, there should be no reason why anyone considering starting a business can't follow through. Pick up the phone, or jump on-line, and start being your own boss!
*****
SBDC/SCORE Small Business Development Center
Commerce Center
401 E. Colfax Avenue, Suite 120
South Bend, IN 46601
Telephone: (574) 282-4350
Fax: (574) 236-1056
E-mail: chair@southbend-score.org
Website: www.southbend-score.org
Or visit the Indiana SCORE website, for links to SCORE offices in many other locations:
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