Entrepreneurship
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| SWIF is working to provide access to resources and training for all southwest Minnesota business owners. |
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The Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) is deeply committed to the entrepreneurs of the region and believes they hold one of the keys to regional economic advancement. The Entrepreneurship Initiative was created to facilitate and support regional resources to assist and invest in entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial ventures. SWIF is working to identify gaps in services available to entrepreneurs and create a seamless resource path for aspiring business owners.
Programs
Encore Entrepreneurship
A new approach for entrepreneurs aged 55 and better
SWIF's Encore Entrepreneurship program is dedicated to assisting people aged 55 and better who want to explore business and self-employment opportunities with education, financing and networking tools designed to fit their needs.
- Business Consultations, Starting/Expanding a Small Business Classes and college-level training opportunities
- Financial options for start-up and existing ventures offered through SWIF loan programs and bank partners
- Specialized technical assistance for the duration of the loans
- Streamlined access to entrepreneurial resources
- System of support from other southwest Minnesota entrepreneurs
- Confidence to help make the most of your business
Contact us to discuss your business ideas and options at 800-594-9480 or 320-587-4848.
Entrepreneurial Education Opportunities
"Small Business Consultation Sessions"
On the first Wednesday of each month meet with a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) consultant free of charge from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the SWIF office in Hutchinson. These sessions are an opportunity to have your business or pre-venture questions answered and to discuss challenges and opportunities surrounding business ownership. No appointments are necessary. Appointments can be made for a different day and time by calling the SBDC at (800) 594-9480, ext. 7386.
"Starting a Small Business Pre-Venture Classes"
These three-hour sessions are held the third Wednesday of each month at SWIF and taught by staff from SWIF, SBDC and Ridgewater College Small Business Management (SBM) program. The classes help entrepreneurs learn how to research and prepare a business plan, and determine whether a business idea is feasible marketable, and profitable. Contact SWIF at (800) 594-9480 or info@swifoundation.org for more information.
"Going into Business Classes”
Classes will be offered for tuition credits on a quarterly basis at SWIF through Ridgewater College. Watch our calendar for dates and times. Contact SWIF at (800) 594-9480 or info@swifoundation.org for more information.
Surviving the Recession Seminars
Southwest Initiative Foundation recently hosted seminars for business owners and supporters in six southwest Minnesota communities. Facilitator Duane Hoversten provided steps business owners can take to immediately help their business and an opportunity to network and share success stories.
Click here to view a video recording of the Ortonville seminar.
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