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Cool Stuff About Business and Entertainment in the Greater Harrisburg, PA Area. |
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Cool Stuff About Business and Entertainment in the Greater Harrisburg, PA Area. |
| A Place Where Business Ideas Become Reality
How to make the most of the Entrepreneurial Development Center By Valerie A. Gregg, EDC Director The Entrepreneurial Development Center (EDC) exists to provide technical assistance, mentoring, and support to aspiring entrepreneurs. This includes individuals with no previous business experience, as well as those who are ready to grow their existing small businesses. Our services are provided at little or no direct cost to our clients. In return, clients are expected to “do their homework” when it comes to the research, writing, number crunching, and other gritty details of preparing for the reality of business ownership, expansion, and success. With that in mind, here are some suggestions on how to work together with us on your business planning effort. The Business Planning ProcessA recent report indicated that the rate of new business failure is on the increase recently, even in the face of positive economic trends. One reason given: the lack of serious attention to pre-planning before beginning the business venture. A good economy is no excuse for carelessness. We want to give EDC clients the best opportunity for success. So, come prepared to commit several weeks — or months — depending on your own commitment and productivity, to business planning. If you are seeking assistance in finding financing for your business venture, come prepared to discuss the following:
With this information, our staff and counselors may provide you with direction about potential sources for funds. Getting Current Information and InstructionStill not sure if starting a business is for you, but want to learn more? There are many classes and workshops available! Come in and check our listings. Some are offered conveniently on-site, at 1800 State Street. Can’t do any in-depth on-line research on your business idea because you don’t have access to a computer? The EDC has several computer stations available for use by our clients! With a rapidly-changing, information-based economy, it’s important to stay current in your field of business interest. Shopping Around for the right Business Idea Some of our clients are sure that they want to go into business … they just haven’t decided which one! If you are  “shopping”
for just the right business idea, that’s fine! Bring a list of the various businesses
you are considering. Better yet, bring two lists: one of the business possibilities, and
the other of the specific results you want from owning such a business — things such
as flexibility, financial reward, meaningful work, and/or control over your time.
While you are shopping around, expect to do some homework about the most promising business ideas on your list. What are the start up requirements? What are the typical earnings? Why you are suitable to operate such a business? Talking to owners of similar businesses (who would not be in direct competition) can be a useful experience. Bring this information with you when you come to the EDC. Jump Starting an Existing BusinessThe EDC is also available to owners of existing small businesses who are ready for growth. Many business owners recognize the need to make changes to their current business strategies. For example, it may be time to rework your marketing approach, expand your operations or develop an investment strategy. The EDC is available for “business check-ups” to address such issues. Come prepared to discuss your previous business plan, if any; your current operations; and future goals, up to a 5- or 10- year time frame. Take Time to Think About It … … And think some more. The time to ponder your ability to succeed at a business venture is now … not after the door is open. Here are a few places you can start:
There are a number of on-line resources, too, if that’s more your style: We look forward to supporting your business efforts here at CREDC’s Entrepreneurial Development Center. Good Luck! WHAT THE EDC BOARD HAS TO SAY“Yes, Dauphin Bank supports the Entrepreneurial Development Center. It’s just the right thing to do. We are certainly a major player in this region, and, as such, we support the development of our community, especially its economic vitality. It’s our way of assuring a better quality of life for all who live in the Capital region.” -Thomas C. Bell, Vice President, Dauphin Deposit Bank and Trust Company “PP&L has a long history of supporting economic
development in areas that we serve. We are particularly proud to partner with the
Entrepreneurial Development Center. As their successful clients “graduate” to
become business owners, our economy will reap the benefits.” “I am very proud of what we have achieved here at the
Entrepreneurial Development Center. The first year has been successful beyond our
expectations. Six new businesses have started - - and more are on their way! As an
entrepreneur myself, I find this particularly exciting. With the EDC as a resource, the
reality of business ownership is now more achievable than ever in this region.” Advisory Board Samuel Apicelli Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellot Jeffrey A. Baltimore Vladimir Beaufils Thomas C. Bell Angela Brooks Rodney Brooks David Anderson Brown Charles L. Cenkner Nancy Chavez John E. Coleman, Treasurer Vera C. Cornish, Secretary Shelly Danzy Marsha M. Davis Samette George J. Alex Hartzler, Esq. Vincent J. Hill, Sr. Robert M. Jackson Rev. Robert Kilby II Mukund Kulkarni, Ph.D. Martha McGraw Donna T. Mottilla, D.B.A. Colleen Nash Margaret M. Nicholson Kenneth J. Olson William F. Peterson, Chairman Nancy Rockey Mary Jo Shaub Angela Smith Dawn Spaar Raymond Spencer
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