CSUN Opens Center for Family Businesses

Cal State Northridge on Thursday opened a new center designed to serve as a resource to meet the unique needs of family-owned businesses.

The CSUN Family Business Center, a membership-based program, will offer area businesses help that includes access to advisors, as well as networking opportunities with other kindred spirits.

“Family business has a lot of unique dynamics that are caused by family relationships in the firm,” said center director Daniel McConaughy, speaking at the first of what will be a quarterly program series.

Annual membership in the center will cost $875, which entitles two people from each business to use of the resources. In addition, McConaughy said he hopes to offer some events that are free and open to the general public.

Members will have access to quarterly forums, workshops, networking opportunities and technical assistance.

To assess the needs and concerns of family businesses, the center is conducting a comprehensive survey, the results of which will be released early next year, McConaughy said.

“This gives you a place where you can talk to other people about those problems,” said Paul Miccolis, president and chief executive of a Chatsworth-based restaurant chain.

For more information, contact the center at (818) 677-4612.