WCEDA highlights free small business services for National Entrepreneurship Month

The West Central Economic Development Alliance is helping local small businesses flourish this November for National Entrepreneurship Month. Entrepreneurs in Wadena County are busy creating the newest products and innovations and strengthening our economy, and the North Central Small Business Development Center satellite in WCEDA is here to provide tailored support for each step of the business development journey.

What is National Entrepreneurship Month?

National Entrepreneurship Month takes place in November and National Entrepreneurs' Day is observed every third Tuesday of November, occurring this year on the 19th. Both offer a time to celebrate the efforts of entrepreneurs in communities across the U.S. as they better the economy locally and nationally.
Entrepreneurs deserve recognition and support for several reasons. Not only do they produce new and improved goods, services, and ideas, but their businesses also create new jobs. As new companies are launched, employment opportunities increase and the local economy grows as more funds circulate within the county. More spending increases tax revenue for roads, municipal services, and schools, and the improved quality of life creates more opportunities. It’s a dynamic cycle with benefits for the entire community, and supporting entrepreneurs is key to growth.

Supporting entrepreneurs in Wadena County

With WCEDA, the opportunities to access small business support from a wide range of professionals are immediate and expanding. In April 2024, the North Central SBDC launched a satellite center at WCEDA in Sebeka, Minnesota, to provide Wadena businesses with easier access to the center’s diverse range of resources and consultancy services.

Budding entrepreneurs in rural settings encounter unique logistical challenges, and the SBDC satellite in WCEDA was launched to remove multiple barriers, including access to high-quality support in the planning and development stages of an enterprise. Through the satellite office, Wadena County residents benefit from the same services more densely populated areas receive without the time and financial burdens of travel.

“From the concept stage to businesses ready to scale, companies at all stages of development  can benefit from the personalized guidance offered by North Central SBDC,” Hope Williams, Economic Alliance Executive Director, said.

For new businesses with limited funds, hiring professionals to assist with research and marketing may not be an option, but the SBDC can help by providing one-on-one support and consulting at no charge. Similarly, a well-established business ready to expand may be uncertain on next steps. The SBDC’s strategic and growth planning assistance is available to formulate a road map for the future.

Free workshops and seminars also provide growth and development insights and facilitate networking with other like-minded professionals. Past learning topics include marketing, finance, management, and business planning, and educational opportunities updated regularly.

Guidance customized for local entrepreneurs

During National Entrepreneurship Month, WCEDA would like to honor entrepreneurs in our community. We applaud their hard work, passion, and dedication to designing new businesses, and in doing so, building the U.S. and local economy. Both WCEDA and the SBDC are dedicated to the success of our small businesses. Whether you are exploring starting a business, ready to launch, or a fixture in the community, the SBDC satellite office is here to help with guidance in multiple areas including:

• Market research
• Feasibility
• Loan packaging
• Marketing plan reviews and development
• Business plan development
• Workforce
• Strategic planning
• Growth planning
• Succession planning

Learn more about the wide-range of services offered by the SBDC Satellite Office in Wadena County and sign up as a client here or contact the West Central Economic Development Alliance to discuss your small business needs.