Millikin University to offer 10-week course on “How to Start a Business”

[January 14, 2016]  DECATUR – Millikin University’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Decatur SCORE Chapter #296 have collaborated to offer a course that will help make business ownership a reality for aspiring entrepreneurs. The course is titled “How to Start a Business.”

A 10-week course, “How to Start a Business” is a practical, hands-on program designed to help entrepreneurs gain knowledge and skills needed to create, manage, and grow a successful business. The course will be held on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 – 9 p.m., starting Feb. 10 through April 13, 2016. Classes will be held in ADM-Scovill Hall, Room 109, on Millikin University’s campus.

Throughout the program, students will work on their own business ideas or existing businesses to move their ventures forward. The course helps students develop: a feasibility plan, market research, competitor analysis, product/service distinction, a network of startup and growth resources, and confidence in starting a business.

Course topics include: defining your business concept, gathering information for a feasibility plan, defining market segments, and determining financial feasibility.

Once students complete the program they will receive a free one-year membership (value $100) to the Micro Business Network (MBN). The MBN’s mission is to provide the local community of micro business owners an environment where they can share knowledge and resources to help each other succeed.

“This course gave me a direction as to where to begin and a logical step-by-step process to develop and improve my business ideas,” said a recent student.

Another student noted, “It gave me the tools to know what to do when I am ready to start my business in the future.”

Cost for the program includes all materials, speakers, business coaching and meals. A discounted package is available for two people in the same business with only one deposit.

A free informational meeting about “How to Start a Business” will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016, from 6 – 7 p.m. in ADM-Scovill Hall, Room 109, on Millikin University’s campus.

For more information on “How to Start a Business” or to enroll in the program, contact Millikin’s Center for Entrepreneurship at 217.424.6296 or by e-mail at [e-mail].

[Dane Lisser, Millikin University]