WTAMU Enterprise Center request for Qualification for Business Facilitation. Propose development and execution of a plan to foster a culture of entrepreneurship in the rural communities of the panhandle. The work performed would be divided into three communities: 1. Train and develop entrepreneurs & business owners. 2. Match local service providers to Clients (and facilitate grant money). 3. Advertise available services to Panhandle communities. Each of the three components is described below. Task 1: Business Facilitation to train and develop entrepreneurs A business facilitator will work in each community as a direct point of contact for assistance to entrepreneurs. They will work with both start-up businesses and existing businesses. Business facilitators will receive coaching skills training through Coach University either through the Core Essentials Coaching Program provided by Coach U. services will include the following: Startup Businesses - Flesh out the details of their idea - Work up financial projections - Work through steps of opening a business in Texas - Provide market research and demographic studies - Educate on financial management tools - Educate sales on sales and marketing strategy - Educate on available loan programs and HUB certification Existing Businesses - Accounting Systems - Non-disclosure agreements - Setting prices - Sales and marketing plans - Launch new products - Business plan and financial projections for lenders - Valuation of business - Steps to bid on government contracts - Set up online business - Help build proposals for clients to approach EDC for incentives Additional services to be provided in each community, as needed: - Individual Business Coaching - Expert Resource Trainers - Internship Program Task 2: Match local service providers to clients Evaluate each clients need of professional services. As needs are identified, clients will be matched with appropriate service provider (i.e. CPA, attorney, consultant, etc.) As the need arises, clients may submit an application for scholarship of up to 50% of the service provider costs. Applications will be made for funding through the WTAMU Enterprise Center University Centers grant program. Clients will then be responsible for the remaining balance of the invoice from the service provider. Task 3: Advertise available services to panhandle communities Assist the WTAMU Enterprise Center in advertising available services to communities in the Panhandle. Advertising/marketing strategy would include the following: - Billboards - Radio - Newspaper - Social Media Printed Flyers and Brochures - Networking Events (i.e. Lunch & Learn, etc.) No additional specifications were given.
