Business Resource Center Announces February Workshops

File Photo.

By Sonia Isotov

The County of Maui Office of Economic Development announced today its schedule of upcoming business startup, financing, and business development workshops for February.

These educational events are normally free or very affordable, and delivered by industry experts, at the Maui County Business Resource Center (MCBRC) located in the Maui Mall.

 “QuickBooks for Small Business”
Thursday, February 10, 5 to 8pm – $45 PER SESSION
Hands on Computer Training for Beginners
Richard Kehoe, SCORE
Learn to set up your company’s QuickBooks in a small class setting with personalized tutoring. This class is for new users and will teach you how to record sales, receive payments, prepare invoices and balance your checkbook. Get customized answers and schedule a follow-up appointment at a nominal fee to discuss YOUR solutions. Sponsored by SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and presented by Richard Kehoe, CPA and lead SCORE counselor.

“Doing Business with the Government”
Tuesday, February 15, Noon to 1pm – FREE
Evette Lau, MEO, Business Dev. Corp.
Every product or service that is acquired by the government is done through a bidding process. Evette Lau of MEO’s BDC, will leas this instructional workshop introducing participants to the process of successful government contracting with information on registration & technical assistance to Small Businesses who are interested in federal, state and local procurement.

“How to be Joyfully Jobless – Creating Work that You Love”
Wednesday, Feb 16, Noon to 1pm – FREE
Ed Gazmen
Learn to: Uncover your real asset, find your lost passion, take a dream and make it real, and overcome obstacles. Ed Gazmen specializes in creative thinking for personal and business development. He is the founder/publisher of Kayumanggi News, a tabloid targeting Filipino community.

“Market Research on a Budget”
Thursday, February 17, Noon to 1pm – FREE
Christine Pawliuk, Hawaiian Business Research Library
Come learn how to take advantage of the free research services that are available to Maui’s entrepreneurs! Whether you are starting a business, expanding, or looking for new markets to help weather tough time, you will need accurate market research to make the best decisions for your business. This workshop will teach you about the research tools and services available to Maui’s small businesses. Christine Pawliuk is the Research Librarian at the Hawaiian Business Research Library, a specialty center of the Hawaii Small Business Development Center Network that provides customized research services to Hawaii’s entrepreneurs.

“Taking Advantage of Increased Visual Marketing Opportunities”
Tuesday, February 22, Noon to 1pm
Doug Allan, Island Sign
Learn about the new Maui County Sign Ordinance Amendments and how your business can use it as an opportunity for marketing exposure. Dollar for dollar, signage is the clear winner when it comes to visibility and sales. Doug Allan, owner of Island Signs, was a member of the subcommittee that provided suggestive changes to county rules in regards to commercial signs. He has been designing and manufacturing signs for more than two decades.

“Taking Control of Your Credit”
Monday, February 24, NOON to 1pm – FREE
Delia Wilson, Loan Fund Manager
MEO Business Development Center
This workshop will answer questions about your credit and how it affects your ability to get financing to start or grow your business. Get help with planning how to repair credit the right way.

“Starting a Business in Maui County”
Friday, February 25, Noon to 1pm – FREE
Karen S. Arakawa, Small Business Advocate
Lectured by Karen S. Arakawa of the County of Maui Office of Economic Development, this seminar covers general information and requirement for starting a business in Maui County. Handouts, websites and other helpful information included.

As seating is limited, reservations are requested and may be made by calling the Maui County Business Resource Center (MCBRC).  Attendees are asked to bring their own lunches.  All workshops are subject to change or cancellation.  MCBRC also offers free business counseling sessions with experienced SCORE counselors that may be arranged by calling 808-873-8247.