Center for Entrepreneurial Success Connects Local Entrepreneurs with Resources to Succeed

As any entrepreneur can tell you, starting a business  can be exciting and overwhelming. With so much to think about, it's easy to become overwhelmed with a never-ending load of information and no clear direction.

The Center for Entrepreneurial Success at Goodwill has helped many entrepreneurs find direction and develop a solid business plan with its Signature Series, "Stepping Up to New Opportunities," a seven- week program designed to cover a real-life curriculum of business knowledge taught by local professionals in a variety of fields.

Marcie Bragg, director of the Center, grew up in a family of entrepreneurs and also worked as a small business banking officer. She often met with people who wanted funding but had no business plan.

"It is so important for someone starting or continuing a business to have a plan and a great network of support," she said.

The support of local professionals, as well as the local chambers of commerce,  is what makes the program so unique.

Over the past two years, Bragg has collaborated with the various chambers of commerce to offer programs in different communities.

The first series offered at North Canton Chamber of Commerce was Fall 2010.  Local professionals volunteered their time and expertise on topics such as marketing, web design, employment law, financial bookkeeping and legal issues.

One presenter, Stephan Wright, an attorney at law at Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty, believes a good, solid and trustworthy team is important and the course introduces local professionals who can offer support and guidance to the participants.

Bragg agrees that the success of the center truly pivots on the community volunteers who inspire, educate and share their passion for their field of expertise with the participants.

"Center participants gain resources and connections that go beyond after the series is completed," she said. "They have made connections with all the professional presenters, the other participants, and are made aware of numerous resources that can be used beyond the classroom."

Teresa Fedorchak, senior account manager at WRL Advertising and a fall 2010 presenter, thinks everyone should volunteer their time at something. She loves offering her support and giving advice on advertising and marketing techniques.

"It is the community reaching out to help the community so the impact is limitless," Fedorchak said.

The program is also for current business owners who need to re-energize or re-focus.

John Stoner, owner of Signature Floor Care, already had his business up and running when he attended the program last fall. It helped him evaluate his business and plan for growth.

For start-ups, however, the program could help a future business owner make immediate decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Shirl Matz, principal bookkeeper at Shields Blice & Company, said it's the only program available in Stark County that she is  aware of  that offers resources to educate yourself before you open your doors.

"It provides resources and education regarding various issues that many future business owners would not even think to investigate or know what is required," she said. "It can literally help them determine whether this is indeed the right direction for their next career or professional goal."

Calling all entrepreneurs:

Q: Where do I start?
A: Develop a great business idea, complete an application and fit-gap form online at www.defineyoursuccess.org and contact Marcie Bragg, the director of the Center, to schedule an initial consultation.

Q: How much is the course?
A: Affordable classes are offered and tuition scholarships are available to meet all income-level needs. Evening classes meet one night per week over a seven-week span and day classes meet one day per week over six weeks. Tuition for the program varies based on scholarship qualification.

Q: When does the next course start in Stark County?
A: March 24

Q: How many courses are offered a year?
A: There are two courses (a day and an evening option) a year. Locations are varied within Stark County.