New entrepreneur workshops coming to NGTC

A new series of workshops is being offered to local agricultural producers, artisans and other entrepreneurs as part of an Asset- Based Development Initiative to capitalize on traditional arts, culture, and heritage in order to impact economic development in the seven-county area served by North Georgia Technical College.

The eCommerce, Exportation and Marketing workshops are open to businesses of any kind. The purpose is to help local agricultural producers, heritage and contemporary artisans and other small businesses to explore new opportunities to develop and market products unique to the northeast Georgia region. The classes will be appropriate both for those who already own a business as well as anyone planning to start one.

The first workshop in the series will be eCommerce and it will be held on March 6 & 7. Attendees will learn how to use the Internet and an effective Web presence to grow market share, sell products beyond the local service area and "co-market" products through other businesses. This class will be followed by one in April on exporting products to friendly markets outside the U.S. The third class, offered in May, will be an overall marketing strategy course.

"The region relies heavily on agriculture and tourism and is rich in the Appalachian entrepreneurial spirit," says Dr. Judy Taylor, NGTC Vice President of Economic Development. "The beauty of the area, as well as the lure of mountain crafts and foods, has always drawn visitors." Today's visitors are also likely to be seeking opportunities to purchase unique regional products, including dining in restaurants that feature locally grown fish, organic vegetables, and unique wine. This series of workshops is part of a larger effort to provide the leadership, resources and training necessary to expand earning potential, add jobs, foster entrepreneurship, and protect and enhance the assets found in North Georgia.

For more information on the eCommerce workshop scheduled for March 6 & 7, from 5:30-10:00 p.m., contact the Small Business Resource Center at 706- 754-7880. Registration is $25 and includes a light dinner for both nights, along with a workbook and other materials. To register, call 706-754-7716 or visit www.northgatech.edu/cone d/registration.cfm.