Are you thinking about starting a new business? Would you like ideas for helping your business grow? Fort Bend County Libraries will have several programs in August for small-business entrepreneurs.
The programs are free and open to the public. For more information, call the branch library or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734.
“SCORE: Simple Steps to Fund a Business”
University Branch Library -- Friday, Aug 2, 10:30 am-12:30 pm, Meeting Room 1.
SCORE mentor Matt Fitzgerald will talk about sources of funding for beginning entrepreneurs who are planning to start a new business. Get a better understanding of what financing a business will need and what lenders look for when reviewing applications. Fitzerald will also discuss various sources of funds in the marketplace, the best place to start, and the key ingredients for success when borrowing money. Learn about sources of equity, and how to use equity as an alternative to borrowing funds. This program is presented in partnership with SCORE, the non-profit mentoring arm of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Registration is not required.
“Intro to LinkedIn”
Mission Bend Branch Library – Tuesday, Aug 6, 10:30-11:30 am, Computer Lab.
LinkedIn is the world’s largest social-media network for professionals and is a great vehicle for connecting with potential customers. Find out how to make the best use of LinkedIn to network and engage with contacts and businesses. Learn how to create a profile, and become familiar with online etiquette in the LinkedIn virtual community. Registration is required; call 832-471-5900.
“Facebook for Business Pages”
University Branch Library – Wednesday, Aug 14, 2:00 pm, Computer Lab.
One of the most popular social-media sites, Facebook offers a wealth of resources for the small-business owner. Learn how a business page differs from a personal page, how to set up a business page, and how to take advantage of some of the unique features that a business page provides. Registration is required; click here to register, or call 281-633-5100.
“Facebook for Business Marketing”
University Branch Library -- Wednesday, Aug 21, 2:00 pm, Computer Lab.
Learn how to use this popular social-media website to grow a business. Get tips on how to utilize Facebook analytics to identify user demographics, improve reach, and efficiently target all of the people who matter most. Registration is required; click here to register, or call 281-633-5100.
“SCORE: Write Your Own Business Plan”
Sugar Land Branch Library – Friday, Aug 23, 1:00-3:00 pm, Meeting Room.
Having a business plan is an important asset when seeking funding for a new business. This workshop will explain the critical elements of every business plan, beginning with creating a customized model, assessing the competitive quality of that model, and converting worksheet data into a professional business plan that financial lenders will appreciate. The workshop includes hands-on assistance for creating a real and relevant outline that can be used to launch a business. This program is presented in partnership with SCORE, the non-profit mentoring arm of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Registration is not required.