Where can I find training for small business startups?

On Thursday, May 14, I had the privilege of attending the 1st Annual Awards & Entrepreneur Showcase Event of The Intersect Fund, an organization founded by Rutger’s seniors Rohan Mathews and Joe Shure. The Organization provides an opportunity for local communities new and existing small businesses to better educate themselves before entering the business world.

In the current economic downturn, many Americans who thought their jobs were secure now find themselves looking for work. The comfort of depending on one’s employer to provide stability and long-term financial success may be a thing of the past. Thousands are finding opportunity in the midst of crisis by striking out on their own to start small businesses in their communities.

The Intersect Fund, a non-profit organization based in New Brunswick, can help. The group offers seed capital, consulting services, and comprehensive training, all at affordable prices.
Entrepreneurs who wish to participate are invited to take a course that meets once a week for six weeks and covers the fundamentals of business that one should know before embarking on a new business venture. Topics include budgeting, managing cash flow, marketing, registering one’s business, and a host of other useful skills. When entrepreneurs complete the course, they have the tools necessary to create a viable business plan, a must for every new and existing business to succeed. They also become eligible to apply for a loan that helps them buy working capital or cover the cost of expansion. Courses are available in Spanish.

In addition to receiving quality business services at a reasonable price, The Intersect Fund entrepreneurs’ have available to them a myriad of networking opportunities and continued support from an attentive, competent staff. The Fund also provides low-cost logo creation and graphic design services, and can also help set up a web site.

Starting or expanding a business can seem like a daunting task. And, let’s face it: it is. With the right support system and training, the steps to business success become far easier to handle.

To learn more about The Intersect Fund, and to find out how to take advantage of the services the Group offers, send an e-mail to info@intersectfund.org.

Richard Strug
Greater Princeton Area SCORE (Chapter 631)
Serving Mercer and Middlesex Counties