Story provided by Stillwater Public Library
Future business owners will learn the essentials needed to take their venture from conception to reality at “Starting Your Business” on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Brad Rickelman, Assistant Director of Meridian Technology’s Center for Business Development, will cover topics like how to conduct market research, writing a solid business plan and navigating financial estimates.
The current economy creates many challenges due to the ongoing pandemic, but new businesses are actually on the rise.
“Current business statistics all point to a sharp uptick in startups across the country,” said Rickelman. “Many factors are driving this trend. Loan rates are low right now, and more people are working from home and looking for side hustles and new opportunities to help earn money.”
The business landscape has changed a lot during the pandemic, but Rickelman believes that successful pathways exist.
“Businesses that are providing delivery services or taking their business directly to the consumer’s home are seeing an increase in sales,” said Rickelman. “If your consumer base is not purchasing in-store as much as they used to, there are ways to reach them. That’s one of the things we’ll discuss in class.”
“Starting Your Business” will mostly cover basic questions regarding new businesses, but will also provide insight into maintaining customers and profits over time. Being aware of resources can help. Local options include Meridian Technology Center, the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce and the Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center.
“I like for people to walk away from the class knowing where to reach out to when they have questions or need some guidance,” said Rickelman.
The Library also has a vast number of business books and a “Small Business Reference Center Database” covering topics such as hiring employees, management techniques, accounting, marketing strategies and much more. The database is accessible on the Library’s website at http://library.stillwater.org/databases.php. It is the first database listed and is available to use in the Library or at home with a Library card number.
“Starting Your Business” takes place online using Zoom, and registration is required by Feb. 12 at 5 p.m. Sign-up at http://library.stillwater.org/register.php. Librarians can also assist with registration, finding books and locating reliable resources. Stop by the Library, call (405) 372-3633 x8106 or email [email protected].
This program is offered through a partnership between Meridian Technology Center and the Stillwater Public Library. Learn more about Meridian’s Center for Business Development at meridiantech.edu/center-for-business-development.
The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 S. Duck St. Library hours are Monday-Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
