CLIMB: Small Business Development
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides training and educational programs for business owners. For information, visit our website at www.bizcenter.org or contact the SBDC at 971-722-5080.
How to Work with the SBDC
Start your entrepreneurial journey at our website: www.BizCenter.org., and you are on your way! On the Home page in the left side navigation area, click "Find Location", choose the Portland location, click on the link that says "Online Request for Counseling" (below the Facebook icon), then follow the prompts to complete your online client registration, starting with your email address.
Shortly after registering, you will receive information about the first step on your path: attending our New Client Orientation. Details about the next session are below and will also be included in the info we send you. In the Orientation we will help you assess your level of readiness and provide you with access to programs and resources. The Business Development path includes: THINKING about starting a business, LAUNCHING a new business venture, GROWING your current business, and RE-INVENTING or expanding a business. Each level of learning gets you to a higher level of business and personal development. Step out and enjoy the path to success on the SBDC Business Development Pathway.
THINKING about Starting a Business
After attending the New Client Orientation, the next step is the Directed Self-Study (DSS) Program which allows small business owners to direct the pace of their study, develop and refine their business idea by completing a business plan draft and prepare for a higher level of readiness when they meet with their SBDC business advisor.
After preparing a draft business plan, you will work with one of our business advisors to create a custom Action Plan for your business success and growth. DSS is for individuals thinking about starting a business, small business owners who are in the start-up phase and for those who are already running a business but still need a business plan.
LAUNCHING a New Business Venture
Our new business launching programs are designed to help you achieve your start-up business goals at the pace at which you are ready to embark. Whether you are on a fast track or want to take it slow, our Business Launching programs will fit your life's schedule. With class work, one-on-one advising and peer mentorship, you will learn the skills essential to building a solid business foundation to get your venture started in the right direction toward success. Contact us at sbdc@pcc.edu prior to enrolling for a program application.
- Entrepreneur Development Series - Understand Your Financials
- Entrepreneur Development Series - Marketing, Marketing
- Entrepreneur Development Series - Operations & Systems
GROWING Your Current Business
Our innovative programs for established businesses are designed to help you achieve your business goals through improved management, organization and operation skills. Through class work, one-on-one long-term advising, and peer mentorship you will learn how to develop, maintain, and use effective marketing and management tools, how to implement a plan for sound growth and expansion, and how to understand and use your financial data. Contact us at sbdc@pcc.edu prior to enrolling for a program application.
RE-INVENTING or Expanding a Business
When you are ready to expand your business by adding a location, employees or equipment, or re-invent with additional products or services, our advanced business management programs are designed to help you achieve your business goals. Through class work, one-on-one long-term advising, and peer mentorship you will learn how to implement a plan for sound growth and expansion, and how to understand and use your financial data to maximize your growth potential. Contact us at sbdc@pcc.edu prior to enrolling for a program application.
WORKSHOPS for Operating Your Business
Operating Your Business workshops offer basic education in specific areas useful to small business owners. These quick workshops will keep you on the road to success.