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General
WEV is a non-profit. Why do you charge for services?
A non-profit corporation is supported by a variety of income sources including grants, donations and fees. WEV charges fees for two reasons:
1) We believe that clients will be more committed to successfully completing our programs if they have invested their own money in their training and
2) Program fees are an important component of WEV's income and sustainability - we couldn't survive without fee income.
The difference between a non-profit and a for-profit corporation is that the non-profit exists for the benefit of the public. There are no shareholders in a non-profit and although we may show a "profit" at the end of the year, any excess earnings cannot be distributed but must be kept in the non-profit coffers to serve the organization's mission.
I would like a calendar of events, can you send me one?
We do not currently publish a calendar. Training events are listed on the appropriate program webpages (such as orientation dates on the Orientation page, or SET course dates on the Course Description page). A list of other events (such as SET graduation or WEV Connects) is available on the Upcoming Events page.
I heard WEV offers grants and free money, is this true?
WEV does not give grants or free money. It has come to our attention that some publications have printed this erroneous information. We hope you didn't "pay" for it!
I live out of town, can you direct me to an organization like yours in my area?
Please click the link to search for an association in your state who can direct you to an organization in your area:
Search AEO members by state
Search SBA's Resource Partners
Do you have any local statistics on my field of business?
Great information can be found in your public library. Also visit the Market Research category on the Useful Links page of our website.
Does WEV offer networking opportunities to local businesses?
By getting involved in some of WEV's programs and events, you will find yourself not only networking, but making friends and having fun. Perhaps you could be a guest speaker at one of our classes, attend a graduation ceremony or WEV Connects event in your region, or add your business to our Business Directory (for WEV clients only)! If you have not already done so, sign up for our mailing list so you can stay up to date on all of WEV happenings!
Can I buy a copy of the SET workbook?
The current version of the SET workbook is available to the public for $100, or $35 for an older version. You may purchase one by calling your regional WEV office, subject to availability.
How can I get a copy of the Alumni Directory?
You may browse the online directory. This is a listing of the current WEV Got Business (formerly W!) members, and has replaced the printing of any directories.
Can I retake the course?
We permit graduates to retake the course; scholarship eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis. If you graduated more than 1 year ago, we do require that you attend an orientation and fill out an application to enroll. Call your regional office or visit our Orientations page to sign up.
Self-Employment Training
How often are the classes held?
SET is offered in September and February. Attendance of an orientation is required to enroll in the course.
Where are the classes held?
Classes are held in Santa Barbara, Northern Santa Barbara County and Ventura County. For more information on specific locations, visit our Course Description page.
How much does the class cost?
The full cost of the course is $2,500. However, the course is offered on a sliding scale fee based on your household income for the past year.
I am taking the course with my business partner/spouse, do we both have to pay the tuition?
Yes. You both will receive a complete curriculum, and the instructor will be working with both of you throughout the course.
Do I need a business idea to take the class?
Yes. Since the course takes you through the process of writing a complete business plan, we recommend you enter the class with 1-2 business ideas upon which to base your plan.
I am already in business, can I take the class?
Absolutely! Many of our clients come to us with goals of growing and improving their business. Writing a business plan is the perfect avenue for moving forward.
Do you offer classes during the day?
No. Since the majority of our clients work full-time, we have created evening courses to accommodate their needs.
Do you provide child care?
We do not have child care available.
Can men take the class?
Yes, all of WEV's programs and services are available to women and men. WEV's target clients are women, in alignment with our mission.
Is SET offered in Spanish? Se ofrece el curso de Capacitación Empresarial en español?
Yes, SET classes are also offered in Spanish. Please call our office for more information. Si, se ofrece el curso en español también. Favor de llamar a nuestra oficina para más información.
After attending the orientation, how can I submit my SET application?
Please make an appointment or send/fax your paperwork to your regional office - see our Contact Us page.
Business Loans through the Small Business Loan Fund
How do I get a loan?
Information about loan amounts, fees, use of money and how to apply is available on our Get a Loan Overview and Application pages.
Do I have to take a WEV class to get a loan?
No, you do not need to be a WEV graduate or client to apply for a loan. However, WEV's Self-Employment Training (SET) and Business Plan Intensive (BPI) courses will help you complete a business plan, which is a requirement to apply for a loan through the Small Business Loan Fund.
Where can I get help to write a business plan?
1. WEV's Self-Employment Training course or Business Plan Intensive course
2. Your regional Small Business Development Center (SBDC):
3. SCORE
If I take a WEV class, will I get a loan?
There is no guarantee that a graduate will get a loan. Each loan applicant will be considered individually. Please see our Get a Loan page for complete information.
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