DIXON – Northwest Illinois Economic Development is hosting a free entrepreneurial boot camp for aspiring business owners.
The “Build It Grow It” program will run from January to April, with a series of educational sessions touching on a range of business topics. Meeting locations will alternate between the Davis Community Center, 631 S. East St., in Mount Carroll and the Mud Run Beer Co., 124 S. Main St. in Stockton. All sessions will include a light meal and the chance to network with other entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
The boot camp is open to small-business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, and high school and college students.
Dates, locations and topics
- Thursday, Jan. 30, at the Davis Community Center: Business Legacy and the Long Game
- Thursday, Feb. 27, at Mud Run Beer Co.: Entrepreneurship and Financial Management
- Thursday, March 27, at the Davis Community Center: Digital Marketing and Branding
- Thursday, April 24, at Mud Run Beer Co.: NWILED’s Shark Tank and Program Graduation
Participants also will have a chance to pitch their business idea to a panel of investors at NWILED’s Shark Tank for a chance to win up to $5,000.
The program is a collaborative effort among NWILED, the Foundation for Northwest Illinois, Gradient Coaching & Consulting, Highland Community College and Basket Case Galena. Last year’s program had 44 participants, 23 of whom graduated with certificates of achievement.
NWILED is a nonprofit organization promoting economic growth and development in northwest Illinois throughout Jo Daviess and Carroll counties.
For information or to register, email David Schmit at DSchmit@nwiled.org.