Free Virtual Workshop Series for Entrepreneurs in East Central Indiana

If you’ve been thinking about starting a business, or strengthening the one you already own, this is your opportunity to take focused, practical action.

The East Central Indiana Small Business Development Center is launching a free virtual workshop series designed specifically for entrepreneurs and small business owners in our region. Each session is one hour, accessible online, and packed with tools you can apply immediately.

And the first session is next week.

February 19 at 10AM

Guide to Starting a Business

Whether you’re in the idea phase or ready to formalize your operation, this session will walk you through:

  • Evaluating your business idea

  • Understanding legal structures

  • Licensing and registration basics

  • Financial considerations and startup planning

  • Available resources to support you locally

Starting a business without a roadmap can be overwhelming. This session gives you clarity and helps you avoid costly missteps early on.

What’s Ahead in the 2026 Series

This isn’t just a one-off webinar. It’s a thoughtfully designed progression that builds entrepreneurial confidence throughout the year:

  • April: Know Your Numbers

  • June: Branding Your Small Business

  • August: Marketing Your Small Business

  • October: Setting Goals for Your Small Business

Each topic addresses a common gap we see in small business growth:

  • Strong ideas without financial clarity

  • Great products without clear branding

  • Passion without marketing strategy

  • Hard work without measurable goals

This series fills those gaps — step by step.

Why This Matters for Grant County and East Central Indiana

At the Growth Council, we know small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. Every successful startup means:

  • New jobs

  • More local investment

  • Revitalized storefronts

  • Stronger community stability

The East Central Indiana SBDC provides confidential advising, practical tools, and educational programming to help entrepreneurs launch, grow, finance, and transition their businesses successfully. These workshops are one of the most accessible entry points into that support system.

If you’ve been waiting for “the right time” to start — this is it.

Who Should Attend?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs

  • Side-hustlers ready to formalize

  • Existing business owners who need stronger fundamentals

  • Anyone considering expanding or pivoting

And because these workshops are virtual, you can join from your office, home, or storefront.

How to Register

The February 19 session is right around the corner. Spots are limited, and early registration is encouraged.

Visit the East Central Indiana SBDC events page to register and secure your seat.

If you’re unsure whether this is right for you, I encourage you to attend anyway. One hour of focused learning can change the trajectory of your business.

Your Next Step

Economic growth doesn’t just happen; it’s built by people who decide to act.

If 2026 is the year you move from idea to action, start here.

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Growing Grant County: What Economic Development Is (and How You Can Plug In)

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Indiana's Economic Road Map for 2026: What Local Businesses and Workers Should Watch