New and aspiring entrepreneurs on the south side have an opportunity in January to learn from the small-business experts in a series of two free programs presented by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) Georgia District Office. The seminars will be held in the community meeting room at the Fayette County Public Library in downtown Fayetteville on January 15 and 29. There is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is required for each seminar.

The first seminar, “Business Essentials,” takes place on Tuesday, Jan. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. Designed for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, this interactive workshop teaches 12 essential elements for creating and maintaining a successful business. Participants receive valuable information, proven business techniques, marketing ideas, customer service strategies, and a simple system for creating a successful business.

“Business Blueprints,” offered two weeks later on Tuesday, Jan. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m., focuses on how to develop a solid business plan and why creating this document increases your chances of success. Those who attend will learn the key components of a good business plan and how to create a simple business plan outline. In addition, participants will gain an understanding of how a business operates and where to focus their energies. Also to be covered are the critical resources required to solve any business problem, and where to find help when needed.

The instructor for both workshops is Lita A. Blount, president since 1992 of L.A. Blount & Associates, a business services firm specializing in strategic business planning, business operations consulting, project management, and commercial financing. Blount is a consultant, trainer and entrepreneur with a passion for starting new business ventures.

The event is hosted by the Fayette County Public Library and the Friends of the Fayette County Public Library. Admission is free but seating is limited, so all participants must register in advance with the SBA. Register online at www.sba.gov/ga or contact Dorothy Fletcher at the SBA Georgia District Office by phone at 404-331-0100 ext. 305 or by email at dorothy.fletcher@sba.gov. Registration forms are also available at the Fayette County Public Library.

The Fayette County Public Library is located behind the Fayette County administrative complex in downtown Fayetteville. For additional information, please contact the library at 770-461-8841.

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