‘Starting Right’ program in Ohio City

Business Enterprise Center information

Did you know that the Business Enterprise Center has helped thousands of new business start-ups since 1985? Today, free business consultation services are still offered to new and existing businesses throughout the area due to a number of local banks, economic development agencies, community foundations, and counties donations that help offset costs.

In collaboration with the Wright State University Business Enterprise Center, the “Starting Right” pre-business planning seminar, designed to help individuals start a new business, will be offered free of charge on May 13 in the Ohio City Village Hall.

This two-hour workshop, designed to encourage new business development and job creation, is being sponsored by the county and city loan programs managed through the Ohio State University Extension Van Wert County Community Development Office.

Each participant receives a “Starting Right” packet including legal, recordkeeping, tax and general business information. A business plan questionnaire and cash flow projection worksheet is also included. During the class, a business counselor provides an overview of the information as well as instruction on the basics of business ownership.

Those attending the class can use the information provided to participate in the annual Business Plan Challenge where budding entrepreneurs compete for business development funds, a Chamber membership, continued counseling and business courses. A business counselor is available to offer guidance through this process and answer questions as necessary. Personal business counseling services are free and no limit is placed on the number of appointments. Business counselors assist with business financing for start-ups, business structure, planning and recordkeeping.

Individuals can register by calling the Wright State University Business Enterprise Center at 419.232.2008 or the OSU Extension Van Wert County Community Development Office at 419.238.2999. The “Starting Right” pre-business planning seminar is also offered monthly in Van Wert and Celina. Mercer County residents can call the Business Enterprise Center at the Lake Campus at 419.586.0355 or email Carol at carol.jones@wright.edu.