Are you self-employed and operating your business in Coos County? Would you like to take your business to the next level? MicroCredit-NH, a statewide business development program of the non-profit New Hampshire Community Loan Fund, can assist you. Applications for its 2009 Coos County Entrepreneurial Program (CCEP) are now being accepted.
The CCEP helps Coos County's self-employed individuals and microbusiness owners (businesses with one to five employees, including the owner) to further develop their businesses and enhance the quality of jobs in the region. Twelve entrepreneurs who are dedicated to growing their businesses, and have been in business for at least six months, will be selected to participate in this 10-month program.
CCEP participants will learn business and leadership skills from business professionals and local entrepreneurs; receive peer support and feedback; access and use cutting-edge techniques to build a solid foundation for growing their businesses and increasing sales; and receive stipends of up to $3,000 to invest in their businesses. By the end of the program, each participant will create and implement a strategic business plan.
"Interacting with other entrepreneurs in Coos County was such a mind-opener. It gave me a lot of confidence and enthusiasm to move forward," said Vicki DeLalla, 2008 CCEP participant and owner of CNW Creations and Weaving Studio, LLC in North Stratford. "I feel more prepared and wouldn't have known anything was missing in my business if I hadn't gone through CCEP. If anyone has the chance to participate, I would highly recommend it."
CCEP participants also have access to MicroCredit-NH's loan program, which offers loans up to $15,000, and its Individual Development Account (IDA) matched savings program. The CCEP has been made possible through the generosity of the Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund, an advised fund of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation.
"As the 2008 CCEP class progressed, our team noticed a significant change in the participants' analytical and critical thinking skills, especially in regards to business opportunity assessment and future planning," said David Hamel, MicroCredit-NH Director. "This program takes a hands-on approach to strategically develop participating businesses, which results in business stability and enhanced growth opportunities, including the addition of new jobs."
The 2009 CCEP class will meet one full day per month beginning in January. Applications will be accepted until Friday, November 14. For more information and an application, visit www.microcreditnh.org or call Joyce Presby MicroCredit-NH at 1-800-769-3482.
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