The Rogers State University Innovation Center is hosting a free workshop on Thursday, Jan. 18, for those who are interested in starting their own business.
The workshop will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Innovation Center. Participants will learn what it takes to be an entrepreneur and how to prepare for taking the plunge into small business ownership.
In addition, participants will get an overview of the Entrepreneur Development Program offered by RSU. The Entrepreneur Development Program is an online training course designed to assist entrepreneurs in planning and operating a successful business.
The program features 11 self-paced, online modules on topics including business planning, taxes, marketing, management and more. The program was developed by RSU’s Innovation Center staff with input from the university’s business faculty. Program enrollment is $95, which includes individual support from Innovation Center staff via email, phone, videoconferencing or face-to-face meetings.
“The majority of small businesses fail within the first few years due to lack of planning and insufficient business skills and resources, often attributed to poor preparation for business ownership,” said Dr. Ray Brown, RSU vice president for economic and community development. “The Entrepreneur Development Program provides a convenient framework for entrepreneurs to develop and follow a business plan as well as enhance business skills that will increase the likelihood of their success.”
The Innovation Center offers business workshops throughout the year that addressing similar entrepreneurial topics. The Entrepreneur Development Program, however, was created to offer a more comprehensive online program, removing the barriers of time and travel that might keep people from participating, Brown said.
 Those enrolled in the Entrepreneur Development Program will receive free personalized assistance in developing a business plan as well as personal business counseling. In addition, participants will receive free registration for three small business workshops.
For reservations and more information contact the Innovation Center at (918) 343-7533.