October 13, 2011 In this issue: WEV Connects in Santa Paula, Business Ready Workshop, Client of the Month, Thrive in Five, Santa Barbara Axxess, Need a New Niche?, Build a Million Dollar Company, Bank-Hosted Business Training
In less than three short months, 2011 will come to a close. We’re already reflecting on the remarkable accomplishments WEV grads have made this year. What’s still on your to-do list? Read on for resources that will convert your remaining goals into soul-satisfying progress!
-The WEV Staff
WEV Connects in Santa Paula
On September 29th, a fantastic group of current clients, enthusiastic alumni and dedicated friends of WEV attended the first ever WEV Connects event in Ventura County at the Best of VC Marketplace. The atmosphere was social as attendees snacked on treats from Petite Reve Cafe, networked and browsed for Ventura County’s “hidden” treasures.
SET Graduate, Gwendolyn Alley won the Grand prize gift basket of products from the Best of VC Marketplace valued at over $85! Stay tuned for details on the next WEV Connects event.
Business Ready Workshop
Are you ready to be an entrepreneur?
Starting this month in Santa Barbara – and in November in Ventura – WEV will offer Business Ready. This 10-hour workshop helps participants identify or refine one solid business concept, while determining if they have what it takes to start their own business. Hurry and sign-up today! The workshops fill quickly!
Client of the Month – October
Brothers and SET graduates Aureliano and Gelacio Lopez not only make incredible tacos, they also run thriving businesses. They have a combined total of 14 employees at their respective taquerias in Santa Maria and Lompoc! Read more.
Thrive in 5 – Open Enrollment
For the first time ever, the incredible, one-on-one support provided through Thrive in Five can be tapped at any time. It’s now possible to join any month in the year instead of waiting for the start of a new cohort.
Contact Program Manager Lisa Champagne-Minyard at lminyard@wevonline.org to find out how Thrive in Five can provide the accountability, guidance and “tough love” to push your business to the next level.
Santa Barbara Axxess
Save on everyday expenses while donating to WEV
Let the savings begin! Get your Santa Barbara Axxess card today through WEV. Each card costs $30 and $10 of that amount will be generously donated back to support WEV’s programs. Get yours today!
Why SB Axxess? WEV’s Small Business Loan Fund provided SB Axxess with a loan in its infancy – over 10 years ago!
And if you’re in Ventura County… Ventura Axxess cards will be available through WEV in the coming weeks.
Resources
Need a New Niche?
Try government contracting! Need to know more? Check out this helpful resource: ‘Should I pursue government contracting?‘ WEV will host two free workshops in collaboration with the Federal Technology Center (FTC). Register online or call 916.334.9388
Responding to RFPs (Request for Proposal) October 21st, 9am-12pm, WEV’s Ventura office, More info.
Project Management November 8th, 9am-12pm, WEV’s Ventura office, More info.
What It Takes to Build a Million Dollar Company
How to get from staying busy to figuring out the steps to build a successful, sustainable and SALEABLE business
To truly be in business we must create more than just a job for ourselves; we must focus on business-building. Presenter Susan Solovic suggests a re-invention: start with the end in mind and work your way backwards. She will help you identify the steps you need to take to reach the end you want. You won’t want to miss this important program! (Hosted by NAWBO Santa Barbara)
When: Wednesday, October 26, 2011, 11:30-1:30 pm Where: Fess Parker DoubleTree Resort, 633 E. Cabrillo, Santa Barbara Cost: $35 members & students/$45 non-members. (WEV Clients can attend at the student rate!)
Reservations required by October 21. Space is limited so register today!
Local Bank Hosts Business Series
Montecito Bank & Trust is offering a series of Business to Business (B2B) events to help you grow your business. Beginning in late September, the series will cover a wide range of topics, from surviving the current economy to effectively using social media. More info.
SET graduate Jenn Romero, owner of Unurth – a contemporary house and garden wares company – has launched one of the most beautiful websites we’ve seen in a while! Unurth supports local economies and Jenn’s handmade products make great gifts for the upcoming holidays, especially for the gardener in your family.
Share Your Success
We’re always on the lookout for a new Client of the Month, Success Story, Featured Artist or addition to the Client Achievements section of the newsletter. But don’t wait for us to find you… let us know how you’re doing now! Email news@wevonline.org
WEV Classifieds
Shrinking Profits or Revenue? Cash Flow Issues?
Step away. Get clarity and solutions you can immediately implement at a price you can afford. For business owners, nonprofits and entrepreneurs. 5-10 people per workshop so you get custom and personal attention in an intensive workshop designed for results.
Sign up now to get advance notification to save your spot. Workshop with Robin Eschler, of Social Impact Marketing and a Thrive in Five Lead Consultant
Haunted Santa Paula
Tuesday, October 18th, 7–9pm
This spooky tour with Richard Senate starts at the Best of VC Marketplace, 108 N. 10th, Santa Paula. Reservations required. Click here to buy tickets.
Contribute To the Classifieds
If you’ve got something for sale or rent – or a special deal to share with the WEV community – email news@wevonline.org