The Regional Development Funding Corporation (RDFC) is extending its sponsorship of West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WV SBDC) business fundamentals workshops. The sponsorship allows new and potential business owners to take a WV SBDC workshop at no cost.
WV SBDC online and in-person workshops ordinarily entail a $35 fee. RDFC renewed its sponsorship and doubled the duration, from three months to six.
The workshop covers practical basics entrepreneurs need to know to start a business in West Virginia. That includes getting a business license, identifying the market and where to find funding.
“The sponsorship makes it even easier for new business owners and prospective entrepreneurs on the verge of commitment to work with the SBDC to get their business started on the right foot,” said Deputy Interim Director Debra Martin. “The workshops offer practical insights to give West Virginia entrepreneurs the information, tools, and coaching they need to succeed.”
“Small businesses are essential to creating and retaining jobs in West Virginia,” said RDFC Executive Director Rebecca L. MacBlane. “RDFC is proud to support the WV SBDC team that supports the success of West Virginia’s small businesses.”
To register for an online or in-person workshop, visit www.wvsbdc.com and click on the Training Calendar.
RDFC provides economic development financing for land, existing building, new construction, machinery and equipment and working capital needs that contribute to economic development. Also, RDFC is approved to offer SBA 504 loans, which provides approved small businesses with long-term, fixed-rate financing for expansion or modernization.
Organizations interested in sponsoring a month, quarter or year can contact Liz Coffman with the WV SBDC Program Lead Center, elizabeth.a.coffman@wv.gov, 304-957-2080.
The WV SBDC workshops are designed specifically for people who are thinking of starting a business or have had a business for one year or less. The workshop covers topics such as how to develop a business plan, how to apply for a loan, and other essential information an entrepreneur needs to make their business a success.
After the participant completes an online or in-person workshop, the entrepreneur may want to take the next step by scheduling a meeting with a WV SBDC business coach. The confidential meetings are one-on-one between the entrepreneur and the WV SBDC business coach. The statewide network of WV SBDC coaches are skilled individuals with professional certifications that include exporting, innovation, technology and economic development, finance, management and marketing.
For more than 35 years, the WV SBDC has remained the premier resource for small business creation and expansion in the Mountain State. As a key economic driver, the WV SBDC offers a variety of services to entrepreneurs and small businesses to increase their profitability and customer base, enabling continued growth and prosperity for West Virginia’s diversifying economy.
