Goodwill Business Connections
Goodwill Business Connections was designed to provide business support services for the graduates of the Future Business Owners track as well as small business owners, either in their first three years of business, or who are struggling to reinvent themselves as a result of the current economy.
This networking group offers the following services to the community at large:
- Monthly Advanced Classes – Each month there are classes offered on a variety of business topics. Single evening classes are $25 each and multi-session classes vary by topic and length. Link to upcoming classes coming soon!
- Business Resource Fair – This event will be held two times per year and provide small business owners with the opportunity to meet with bankers, bookkeepers, printers, web designers, and other businesses with resources for growth. Events will also include workshops and networking opportunities.
- “Keep it Local” Small Business Saturday – This small business expo is designed to provide a showcase for local small business owners and to help the community to understand how buying local can strengthen the economy and creates jobs.
- Mentoring – Enroll at MicroMentor.org to search for a business mentor. Join the Goodwill of Orange County group to connect with local mentors and keep up-to-date on services provided for small businesses in Orange County. Two “Meet the Mentors” events will be held each year to introduce local mentors to local entrepreneurs.
In addition to the above services, Goodwill of Orange County has created a membership program. Membership provides the following benefits and additional services:
- “Open lab” counseling session – Twice per month business experts will be available to work with small groups on specific topics, offering one-on-one support. A computer lab will be available or you can bring your own lap-top. Sessions will be held from 4:00pm to 6:00pm on varying days and RSVP is required in order to keep the group small.
- Monthly Peer Networking Meeting – This facilitated meeting is for the purpose of developing networking skills, a business support group, and learning from one another’s experience. For those groups interested, the possibility of developing a Peer Lending Group will be explored.
- Professional Services – Receive several hours of free services per year from lawyers, CPA’s, web designers, and other business professionals.
- Discounted Services – Members of the GBC will receive discounts on advanced classes and booth registration for the annual business expo. Discounts with partnering agencies and other business service providers may also be available.
Membership cost is $200 on a pro-rated basis; potential membership value $1000+. Membership payment plans are available.
