Valleywide : Entrepreneurs Learn Strategic Planning

Owners of fledgling businesses who are committed to growth and creating jobs can qualify for an extensive, 10-week training program funded by the city of Los Angeles and sponsored by the Valley Economic Development Center.

Topics covered in the free course range from strategic planning, marketing, sales and operations to financing and leadership.

Participants also receive one-on-one professional business consulting, said Wilma Berglund, vice president of VEDC.

To qualify for the training course, merchants must own at least 30% of their small business, must be located within limits of the incorporated city of Los Angeles, must have been in operation--or under new ownership--for fewer than five years, and must agree to create at least one new job after completing the program, Berglund said. A $50 deposit is required, but will be refunded following completion of the program, she added.

The Entrepreneur Training Program has been funded by the city of Los Angeles’ Community Development Department since 1992.

“This training can provide business owners with very powerful tools,” Berglund said. “To have professional consultants giving you advice on marketing, finance, growth, that’s invaluable. When you’re a fledgling business, you can get caught in a rut. Or, if you grow too quickly and can’t manage it, it can kill you. Our training includes developing business strategies and management techniques.”

In addition to seminars and individual consultations, participants will meet once each week with a group of business professionals to network, discuss goals, support and motivate each other, Berglund said.

For more information, call VEDC at (818) 989-4377.