First FastTrac New Venture Class Graduates
Paintsville, Ky
May 2005
In a collaborative effort, MACED, the Kentucky Highlands Entrepreneur Center and the East Kentucky Small Business Development Center graduated the first FastTrac New Venture class on May 24, 2005. The Spring Class of 2005 consisted of thirteen entrepreneurial students who had young businesses, a business idea or interest in becoming an entrepreneur.
The FastTrac New Venture Program is MACED’s newest technical assistance service offering. It is a nationally recognized hands-on business development program designed to help entrepreneurs hone the skills needed to create, manage and grow a successful business. Supported by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the class takes students through the process of determining whether they want to be a business owner and if their idea is feasible by testing the market, pricing, costs and funding options available in the region.
The nine week class consisted of three hours of facilitated instruction, guest speakers and work study. Business counselors were on hand to answer questions and assist with class instruction. The program included a meal that allowed students an opportunity to learn in a relaxing atmosphere and to network and learn from one another.
Special thanks to the Auxier Lifetime Learning Center for donating a refurbished computer to each graduate to launch their business. The Auxier Lifetime Learning Center works on adult education issues in Auxier, KY.
A second summer session is currently being planned. If you are interested in learning more about FastTrac or would like to attend the next class, contact Regina Becknell, MACED Business Development Associate, at 606-788-6007.
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Class photo of FastTrac graduates. |