Kate Buchanan, right, and her husband, Ken, won first prize in the 2023 Power of Possibility (POP) contest, with Claire Oreskovich, left, as the runner-up. This year’s POP competition will be the culmination of Garrett College’s “Pathway to Entrepreneurship” course, which is currently open for registration and begins August 7th.
Garrett College, working collaboratively with several partner organizations, will be offering an opportunity to turn business dreams into reality.
GC, the Western Region Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Garrett County Economic Development, and Carroll Community College are jointly offering “Pathways to Entrepreneurship”. It is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive business world.
The program, which runs August 7th to October 14th, offers a comprehensive curriculum through a series of courses. Covered core competencies include market research, budgeting and accounting, human resources management, risk assessment, growth strategies, and more.
The curriculum is delivered through a series of courses, including Ready, Set, Go!, Keys to Effective Communication, Preparation for Pathways to Entrepreneurship, and the flagship Pathways to Entrepreneurship course.
“Participants will receive expert guidance and personalized support to navigate every aspect of launching and managing their own ventures,” said Dr. Kimberly Govi, Garrett College’s coordinator of professional development.
The journey begins with Ready, Set, Go!, an information session slated for August 7th that provides insights into the world of entrepreneurship.
“The session helps participants understand business entities, explore available resources, and examine financial considerations and marketing strategies,” Govi said. “Participants will gain a holistic understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape from this session.”
Other topics covered include the intricacies of business planning, legal considerations, finance management, funding sources, and marketing strategies. The course content is delivered through a blend of online coursework and one-on-one consultations.
In addition, Govi said an in-person networking event will take place on September 25th. This event will offer students the opportunity to connect with local business leaders and leverage valuable resources for their ventures.
One of the highlights of the “Pathways to Entrepreneurship” program is the opportunity to participate in the prestigious “Power of Possibility” (POP) competition. POP, which takes place at Garrett College on December 10th, provides a platform for budding entrepreneurs to showcase their business plans and compete with peers for recognition and support.
Registration for the “Pathways to Entrepreneurship” program is now open. Interested individuals should contact Govi at (301) 387-3084, or kimberly.govi@garrettcollege.edu.
