Small Business Services

WRC acts as a one-stop-shop of small business information providing services to enhance women’s knowledge about different aspects of entrepreneurship, and help build skills for improving the success of their ventures. The Women’s Foundation of Colorado is a proud supporter of WRC’s small business services.

MyBiz - A Conference for Women Entrepreneurs
Thank you to all who presented and participated in this year's MyBiz conferece that took place March 1st at the Durango Recreation Center. The conference, designed specifically for women business owners is a one-day educational event that features workshops on marketing, advertising, financial management, insurance, legal issues, human resources, start-up funding and more. Presenters are local professionals from a variety of fields, many of whom own businesses themselves. The highly successful conference was made possible with generous support from The Durango Herald, Region 9 Economic Development District, and the Small Business Development Center.

Small Business Consultations
Every first Monday, WRC offers one-hour consultations with Joe Keck, Director of the Small Business Development Center at Fort Lewis College, for women who need advice on starting their own businesses. Appointments are for women who have a definite business idea and specific questions. Consultations are on a first-come, first-served basis, with preference given to WRC members. Pre-registration is required. Call 247-1242 for to make an appointment.

Small Loans Program
WRC partners with the Region 9 Economic Development District of Southwest Colorado to offer a microloan program for women who own a business or want to start a business. Loan amounts range from $500 to $5,000 and can be used on anything from marketing the business to purchasing equipment. Loan terms are flexible to encourage the growth and success of women-owned enterprises. A business plan is required. Applications are available at WRC or here.

Business Plan Development
A business plan is essential before starting your business. It will help you focus on your product or service, your niche in the community, your competition, how to forecast expenses and revenues, and more. The Small Business Development Center at Fort Lewis College can help or you can access sample business plans at these links:
http://www.bplans.com/sp/businessplans.cfm
http://www.sba.gov/starting_business/planning/writingplan.html

30-Minute Experts Mentoring Program
We could all use a little advice once in a while. So, let WRC pair you up with one of our “30-Minute Experts.” These are professional women in the community who have agreed to volunteer their time and expertise on a variety of business-related topics. Call 247-1242 and WRC will put you in contact with your mentor. Appointments are 30 minutes by phone, e-mail or in person, depending on the mentor’s availability. Following is the list of available topics:

  • Advertising, Marketing and Promotion
  • Financial Planning
  • Income Tax Consultation
  • Insurance Planning Job Search
  • Life Coaching
  • Writing Assistance (grant writing, resumes, cover letters, business plans, promotional copywriting)

Business Women's Network
Business Women's Network is held eight times and year and is open to any woman interested in meeting other women in our business community, whether you work for someone else, are self-employed, or own a business. The evening includes a brief introduction by the host agency, informal networking, and a facilitated discussion about a business-related topic. This fun event is hosted by a WRC individual or corporate member and allows the host to showcase their services while attendees network. Refreshments are served. Admission is free for WRC members, $5 for non-members. For more information, call 247-1242. View a listing of hosts for 2008.

Other Resources