The Women’s Business Center (WBC) of Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma Inc. (REI), a Durant-based economic development agency, will present a Women’s Biz Workshop in Shawnee.  Free workshops for entrepreneurs and business owners are a key component of REI’s business development programs.  

The workshop, “Entrepreneurship 101,” is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 30, 2010 at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Festival Grounds South Reunion Hall, 1700 Gordon Cooper Drive, in Shawnee.  There is no fee, but attendees should register online at www.ruralenterprises.com to insure class space. 

Presenters are Dewey Brandon, Oklahoma Tax Commission: Richard Huff, Gordon Cooper Technology Center; Dr. Barbara Rackley, REI; and a panel of lenders from local banks.

This workshop takes the attendee through many steps of business ownership. Participants will learn types of business structures and advantages and disadvantages of each; what permits and licenses are required; how to obtain these permits and licenses; and reporting procedures for taxes. 

Every business must market its products and/or services to the public.  The marketing presentation will provide an understanding of this process and give some ideas how to market without overextending the marketing budget.

Writing a business plan can seem a monumental task but learn what goes in a plan, how to present the plan and how this plan can help get a business off the ground and growing.

Finding a small business loan and successfully securing funds to start or expand a small business may seem a daunting task for the business owner.  Learn how this process may differ and how to be prepared for the loan process.   Listen as local lenders explain the best. way to approach a lender, what is expected of the borrower and what homework needs to be done in advance of seeking financing.

Although these workshops are designed primarily for women, all entrepreneurs and business owners are invited to attend.  There will be ample time for participants to talk with the presenters.

Co-sponsors are the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Gordon Cooper Technology Center, OSU Cooperative Extension, Shawnee Chamber of Commerce, Shawnee Economic Development Foundation, Tecumseh Chamber of Commerce and REI’s Women’s Business Center, which is funded, in part, by the US Small Business Administration.

For additional information, please contact Dr. Barbara Rackley or Lori Smith at 800-658-2823