By mark stewart
Contributor
Calling all entrepreneurs! Chandler takes great pride in offering no-cost programs for a variety of topics, especially to its small-business community. Our Chandler Public Library and Economic Development Team have partnered to develop a Build Your Business program.
During August, participants may attend four small-business workshops. Each focuses on specific topics related to answering tough questions about starting or growing a business. Staff members have coordinated several speakers knowledgeable in small-business resources, creating business plans, marketing efforts, financing, labor laws and long-term success. Representatives from Chandler companies, such as State Forty Eight, will share their stories during panel discussions.
Every large corporation started as a small business, and that is why it is important to support our small-business community. They are not just companies, but neighbors who live, work and play in our community. Chandler promotes an excellent business climate through the programs offered and in its partnerships with the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, Maricopa Small Business Development Center, East Valley Partnership and the Greater Phoenix Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE).
Chandler Public Library provides a great resource center connecting patrons to a variety of databases, such as “Reference USA,” which is useful for marketing and gathering demographic information, and lyndaLibrary offers a wide selection of video tutorials covering software, business and creativity skills. Whether visiting one of the four public libraries in person or online, all of these resources are free with your library card. City staff members are always available and willing to assist.
Another great benefit that the city provides at no cost is access to the Business Location Team (BLT). The BLT consists of staff members from Development Services, Economic Development, Fire and Planning, who are ready and available to help first-time entrepreneurs and experienced business owners navigate through the property development and permitting processes. For additional information, contact James Smith at 480-782-3033 or by email at james.smith@chandleraz.gov.
Starting a business can be overwhelming and at times scary. As an entrepreneur, I understand the challenges in creating and growing successful businesses. Networking is another opportunity during these types of free events. Connecting people who can learn from one another is priceless.
The mayor and City Council are champions for creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem and that is why these services are supported by the city. I encourage those thinking about starting a business or who own a business to take advantage of the many opportunities offered through the city.
Each workshop is stand alone on Wednesday nights, Aug. 1, 8, 15 and 22 6:30-8 p.m. at the Downtown Chandler Library, 22 S. Delaware St. There is no admission charge, but registration is required.
For more information, visit chandlerlibrary.org and check out the Downtown Library calendar.
Mark Stewart is a Chandler City Council member.
