Ripon Main Street, Inc. and Envision Greater Fond du Lac’s IGNITE program are excited to announce the return of Ripon’s Entrepreneurial Development Program. This comprehensive seven-week course is designed to guide aspiring entrepreneurs through a step-by-step approach to writing a professional business plan. The course is designed for those who are considering starting a business, but is equally beneficial for existing small enterprises aiming to expand their operations. 

The cost to participate in the entrepreneurial training course is only $150, which includes essential handouts and materials. The cost to participate in comparable courses typically starts at $1,000 or more; however, Ripon Main Street, Inc. and IGNITE are partnering to offer this program at a significantly reduced rate to stimulate business startups and expansions. 

The Ripon Entrepreneurial Training Program covers crucial topics such as research, marketing, organizational matters, financial planning and projections, and managing growth. The course, taking place every Tuesday evening from March 5 to April 16, empowers participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to formulate a comprehensive business plan. 

As an added incentive, all completed business plans will qualify for a $5,000 cash prize awarded to the creator of the best concept. 

As a preview of the course, Main Street and IGNITE will host a complimentary introduction to business-planning seminar titled “Starting a Business in Ripon.” This informative session will take place on Tuesday, February 27, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate office, located at 110 Blackburn Street. The seminar will cover fundamental aspects of launching a business and provide an opportunity for prospective entrepreneurs to register for the Ripon Entrepreneurial Training Program. 

Please contact the Ripon Main Street office at 920-748-7466 for additional information or to discuss this opportunity in greater detail.