Small Business Development Center located in Vancouver, WA

Government Procurement

2011-04-07T11:43:00.000-07:00

From SBA.gov:

SBA Announces Contracting Program For

Women-Owned Small Businesses

Release Date: Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Release Number: 11-09

Contact: Tiffani Clements (202) 401-0035

Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Women-owned small businesses can begin taking steps to participate in a new federal contracting program on Friday, Feb. 4, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced today. The new Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract Program will be fully implemented over the next several months, with the first contracts expected to be awarded by the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011.

“Implementing the Women-Owned Small Business contracting rule has been a top priority for the Obama Administration and SBA,” said Administrator Karen Mills. “Women-owned businesses are one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy. As we continue to look to small businesses to grow, create jobs and lead America into the future, women-owned businesses will play a key role. That’s why providing them with all the tools necessary to compete for and win federal contracts is so important. Federal contracts can provide women-owned small businesses with the oxygen they need to take their business to the next level.”

The WOSB Federal Contract Program will provide greater access to federal contracting opportunities for WOSBs and economically-disadvantaged women-owned small businesses (EDWOSBs). The Program allows contracting officers, for the first time, to set aside specific contracts for certified WOSBs and EDWOSBs and will help federal agencies achieve the existing statutory goal of five percent of federal contracting dollars being awarded to WOSBs.

On Feb. 4, SBA will release instructions on how to participate in the program, as well as launch the secure, online data repository for WOSBs to upload required documents, on its website: www.sba.gov/wosb. SBA will also release an application to become an SBA-approved third party certifier for this program on that date. This will be the first version of the application. SBA welcomes comments and suggestions on this first version of the application.

During the ramp up period over the next several months, SBA is encouraging small business owners to review program requirements and ensure their required documents are uploaded to the repository. WOSBs also will need to update their status in the Central Contractor Registration
(CCR) and the Online Representation and Certification Application (ORCA) to indicate to contracting officers that they are eligible to participate. The General Services Administration is currently updating these systems and they are expected to be completed in April, 2011.

Similarly, the WOSB rule in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), which is the companion to the SBA rule, is now going through final review, and is also expected to be issued by April. With these pieces in place, SBA expects to see the first contracts awarded through the program by the all-important fourth quarter, when the largest percent of federal contracts are awarded.

Every firm that wishes to participate in the WOSB program must meet the eligibility requirements and either self-certify or obtain third party certification. At this time, SBA has not approved any third party certifiers. Regardless of their certification method, WOSBs must also upload required documents proving their eligibility to a secure online data repository developed and maintained by SBA.

To qualify as a WOSB, a firm must be at least fifty-one percent owned and controlled by one or more women, and primarily managed by one or more women. The women must be U.S. citizens and the firm must be considered small according to SBA size standards. To be deemed “economically disadvantaged”, a firm’s owners must meet specific financial requirements set forth in the program regulations.

The WOSB Program identifies eighty-three four-digit North American Industry Classification Systems (NAICS) codes where WOSBs are underrepresented or substantially underrepresented. Contracting officers may set aside contracts in these industries if the contract can be awarded at a fair and reasonable price, the contracting officer has a reasonable expectation that two or more WOSBs or EDWOSBs will submit offers for the contract and the anticipated contract price is not greater than $5 million for manufacturing contracts and $3 million for other contracts.

Each stage of implementation is part of SBA’s mission to make the Program efficient and user-friendly, and to ensure its benefits go only to qualifying WOSBs. SBA is excited to launch this new program to provide WOSBs with increased opportunities to compete for and win federal contracts, ultimately helping WOSBs create and retain more jobs.

For more information on the Women-Owned Small Business Program or to access the instructions, applications or database, please visit www.sba.gov/wosb.

Government

2011-03-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

From Kimberly Blake Pincheira; Southwest Outreach Director; Office of U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell; 3/28/11

Would you like to meet leaders from SBA? Or give input on new regulations? Or learn the advantages of new tools coming out of the Small Business Jobs Act?

On Wednesday, April 13^th, SBA will be conducting a Listening Tour to discuss changes as a result of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 (SBJA).

Seattle will be one of the 13 cities on the tour. We will be discussing how the SBJA will affect small business and to also listen to small business owners about how they would like some of the regulations written. Several program heads from SBA Headquarters will be attending, such as Joe Jordan who is the Associate Administrator for Government Contracting. Besides government contracting issues, other topics include access to capital, exporting, and business counseling. Below are the topics that will be covered at the Listening Tour. Register.

Jobs Act Tour – Breakout Sessions

Small Business Jobs Act Provisions Affecting Small Business Participation in Government Contracting

· SBA’s Office of Government Contracting and Business Development will take general comments on key contracting provisions, including:

· multiple-award contract set-asides

· contract bundling accountability

· consolidation of contracts requirements

· subcontracting; plan improvements, misrepresentations, and timeliness of payment

· mentor-protégé programs for women-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, and HUBZone businesses

· presumption of loss to the federal government and willful misrepresentation of size and status by business owners

· annual certification of size requirement

Opportunities in Accessing Capital

· SBA's Office of Capital Access will discuss opportunities to accessing capital, and how SBA loan programs (including new Jobs Act tools) can help.

New SBA Loan Programs

· SBA's Office of Capital Access will discuss major new lending initiatives, including Advantage loans, 504 re-financing, the Dealer Floor Plan pilot, and more.

Investing in Counseling and Training Services to Support the Growth of Small Businesses

· SBA's Office of Entrepreneurial Development will discuss the Jobs Act's support for your local Small Business Development Center and other resources to provide free counseling and training in areas such as exporting.

Expanding Exporting Opportunities for Small Businesses

· SBA's Office of International Trade will discuss new exporting tools such as increased loan sizes, the Export Express program, and state-level STEP grants made possible by the Jobs Act as well as new efforts under the National Export Initiative to double exports over the next five years.

Lender Roundtable (for Prospective and Current SBA Lenders)

· SBA's Office of Capital Access will discuss new efforts to simplify and streamline loan programs and requirements, while also enhancing customer service in areas such as lending policy, processing, and oversight operations.

Size Standards Overview*

· SBA's Office of Size Standards will discuss: how size standards are calculated (methodology), the order in which NAICS sector size standards will be reviewed over the next three fiscal years, and other updates.

Business Planning

2011-03-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

NEWS YOU CAN USE!

Here are some excellent resources from the IRS contributed by Kari Gilje, IRS/Seattle:

March 2011

Tax season is in full swing, and I wanted to share some of the small business web pages and the new social media tools IRS offers to help you and your members/clients keep up with all the latest information. If you haven’t already done so, please consider including some of these links and tools to your organization’s website and social media sites.

IRS has launched IRS2Go, a smartphone application for iPhone and Android that lets you interact with the IRS using your mobile device. If you have an Apple iPhone or iTouch, you can download the free IRS2Go app by visiting the iTunes app store. If you have an Android device, you can visit the Android Marketplace to download the free IRS2Go app. The mobile application allows taxpayers to get their refund status, tax updates and follow the IRS.

The IRS participates on the following social media platforms:

YouTube The IRS has video channels that provide short, informative videos on various tax related topics in English, American Sign Language (ASL) and a variety of foreign languages.

§ IRS You Tube videos, www.youtube.com/IRSvideos

§ IRS multilingual videos, www.youtube.com/IRSvideosMultilingua

§ IRS American Sign Language (ASL) videos. www.youtube.com/IRSvideosASL

Twitter IRS tweets on various tax-related announcements, @IRSnews

Additionally, the IRS has developed its own new media tools to help share important tax information:

§ IRS Video Portal -- Use it to get up to date information on many tax topics. It’s free and you can access at your convenience.

§ Widgets – These are tools that can be placed on your website, blog, or social media network to direct others to IRS.gov for information. Access IRS Marketing Express to customize your communications products.

§ Audio files for podcasts – Multimedia Center on IRS.gov. These files are also available as podcasts in iTunes

§ Subscribe to e-News for Small Business, a free electronic mail service designed to provide tax information for small business owners and self-employed individuals. It is distributed every other Wednesday.

IRS Small Business web pages – these pages provide the information small business owners need, and will assist your membership with various IRS tax issues. You may place the link(s) directly on your site – one of the best places is under your business resources section.

IRS Small Business & Self Employed Tax Center

This section offers a broad range of resources across federal and state agencies, as well as industry/profession specific information for self-employed entrepreneurs, employers and businesses. You will also find links to starting and operating a business, employment taxes, tax law changes for business, business-related forms and publications, and online learning options.

Link: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/index.html

IRS Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop

Nine interactive lessons designed to help new small business owners learn their tax rights and responsibilities.

Link: http://www.tax.gov/virtualworkshop/

IRS Video Portal

The IRS Video Portal offers video and audio presentations on tax topics for small businesses, individuals and tax professionals.

Link: http://www.irsvideos.gov/

Industries/Professions

Visit this page for tax information specific to certain industries and professions.

Link: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/industries/index.html

Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center

The basics on your tax responsibilities if you are self-employed or an independent contractor.

Link: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/selfemployed/index.html

There is also a small business page/tax center in Spanish:

Información y Recursos para Pequeñas Empresas

Link: http://www.irs.gov/espanol/content/0,,id=162902,00.html

IRS.gov has the latest tax news, online tools, research services, guidance and contact information. IRS en Español is available for information in Spanish.

I encourage you to add any or all of the links above to your website. I can also provide the official IRS logo which can be used to advertise the site on your webpage – let me know if you would like me to send it.

If you are not the person who maintains your webpage, please forward this email to that person. Feel free to contact me with any questions and also let me know when you have added IRS links to your website.

Thank you,

Kari Gilje

Senior Stakeholder Liaison

IRS Communications, Liaison & Disclosure

Ph 206.220.5469

kari.s.gilje@irs.gov

Taxes

2010-12-28T08:57:00.001-08:00

Here is some information about tax filing sent to me by an associate, Chuck Powers, CPA:

The start of the 2011 filing season will begin in January for the majority of taxpayers. However, last week’s changes in the law mean that the IRS will need to reprogram its processing systems for three provisions that were extended in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Re-authorization and Job Creation Act of 2010 that became law on Dec. 17.

People claiming any of these three items — involving the state and local sales tax deduction, higher education tuition and fees deduction and educator expenses deduction as well as those taxpayers who itemize deductions on Form 1040 Schedule A — will need to wait to file their tax returns until tax processing systems are ready, which the IRS estimates will be in mid- to late February.

The IRS will announce a specific date in the near future when it can start processing tax returns impacted by the late tax law changes. In the interim, people in the affected categories can start working on their tax returns, but they should not submit their returns until IRS systems are ready to process the new tax law changes.

The IRS urged taxpayers to use e-file instead of paper tax forms to minimize confusion over the recent tax changes and ensure accurate tax returns.

Taxpayers will need to wait to file if they are within any of the following three categories:

Taxpayers claiming itemized deductions on Schedule A. Itemized deductions include mortgage interest, charitable deductions, medical and dental expenses as well as state and local taxes. In addition, itemized deductions include the state and local general sales tax deduction extended in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 enacted Dec. 17, which primarily benefits people living in areas without state and local income taxes and is claimed on Schedule A, Line 5. Because of late Congressional action to enact tax law changes, anyone who itemizes and files a Schedule A will need to wait to file until mid- to late February.
Taxpayers claiming the Higher Education Tuition and Fees Deduction. This deduction for parents and students — covering up to $4,000 of tuition and fees paid to a post-secondary institution — is claimed on Form 8917. However, the IRS emphasized that there will be no delays for millions of parents and students who claim other education credits, including the American Opportunity Tax Credit and Lifetime Learning Credit.
Taxpayers claiming the Educator Expense Deduction. This deduction is for kindergarten through grade 12 educators with out-of-pocket classroom expenses of up to $250. The educator expense deduction is claimed on Form 1040, Line 23, and Form 1040A, Line 16.

For those falling into any of these three categories, the delay affects both paper filers and electronic filers.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chuck Powers, CPA, Powers Accounting

6101 NE 34th St., Vancouver, WA 98661

Web: http://www.ChuckPowers.us/

Email: info@ChuckPowers.us

Phone: (360) 314-6744

FAX: (360) 326-1799

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TAXES

2010-12-22T10:26:00.001-08:00

The end of 2010 is upon us and there have been lots of tax changes. Here are some of the latest:

IRS Helps Small Employers Claim New Health Care Tax Credit; Forms and Additional Guidance Now Available on Small Business Health Care Tax Credit

Payroll Tax Cut to Boost Take-Home Pay for Most Workers; New Withholding Details now available on IRS.gov

To stay up-to-date on the latest changes, the IRS Newsroom is a great resource.

Business Development

2010-07-26T13:59:00.000-07:00

'tis the season for training!

There are a lot of opportunities for developing your business in the coming weeks. Clark College has also released its Fall schedule.

JULY

July 29; Longview
How to Start a Business, SBDC

AUGUST

August 11-12; Seattle
Automated Export System Compliance Seminar and AESPcLink Training, US Census Bureau and Association of Small Business Development Centers

August 10; Spokane
August 12; Seattle
Marketing in the Real World of Small Business, Washington SBDC

August 12; Longview
Get HUBZone Certified; SBA, SBDC, hosted by Lower Columbia College Business and Industry Center

August 12; Vancouver
Building and Updating a Business Plan; SCORE

August 16 and August 19; Longview
Internet Marketing for Small Business, Lower Columbia College

August 21; Seattle
Franchise Opportunities Seminar for Veterans, Minorities, and Women; Washington SBDC and other partners, hosted by International Franchise Association and sponsored by Coca Cola and ExxonMobil

August 26; Longview
How to Start a Business, SBDC

SEPTEMBER

September 7; Longview
NxLevel Entrepreneur Certification (approved for SEAP); SBDC

September TBD; Vancouver
International Exporting 101, CREDC and Impact Washington

September 30; Longview
How to Start a Business, SBDC

OCTOBER

October TBD; Vancouver
Succession Planning 101, CREDC and Impact Washington

Management

2010-07-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

Building a business plan

Don't miss the SCORE workshop on July 15 on "Building and Updating a Business Plan." The program is being offered at the Camas Library and is sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Call 360-834-4692 to register.

Another opportunity for building a business plan is being offered by Washington State University instructor, Cal Meek. Mr. Meek teaches MgmtOps 492, a Business Policy class that affords students an opportunity put their business knowledge to practical use and help a local business person create a business plan. The class will be in session from August to December 2010. Contact Cal Meek at calmeek@wsu.edu for details.

Marketing

2010-06-03T11:21:00.001-07:00

Government Contracting 101 Seminar

If you want to increase sales by selling to the government, there is a seminar next week to help you gain tools and an understanding of that market segment. (Keep in mind the city, county, state, and federal governments buy LOTS of goods and services!)

The seminar is called "Government Contracting 101, the basics of selling to the state and federal government." It is sponsored by the Columbia River Economic Development Council and presented by the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC).

Seminar location is at the CREDC, 805 Broadway, Ste. 412, Vancouver and will be held Thursday, June 10, 2010 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The seminar is FREE but there is only room for 20 people. Register soon! Call Tiffany Scroggs at 360-754-6320 in Olympia or email tscroggs@thurstonedc.com.

Human Resources

2010-05-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

From the Washington Department of Labor and Industries

Learn workers’ comp and more at L&I employers’ workshop

Business owners! Learn to navigate workers’ compensation, contractor registration, wage & hour rules and more at a free Department of Labor and Industries workshop in Vancouver. This free workshop will be held from 9 a.m. – Noon, Wednesday, June 9 at the L&I Vancouver office, 312 SE Stonemill Dr., Suite 120.

The new “Employer’s Introduction to L&I” is geared both for new businesses and those hiring for the first time.

The workshop covers an employer’s rights and responsibilities and gives an overview of the free business services L&I provides. Employers who attend will also learn about workplace safety and health requirements, claims management strategies, risk management, and workers’ comp quarterly reporting requirements.

To register, please visit www.Workshops.Lni.wa.gov . For more information, contact Ron Langley, L&I Small Business Liaison, 1-800-987-0145.

Technology

2010-05-11T15:01:00.000-07:00

How to Commercialize Technology

On June 14th in Seattle and June 15th in Spokane, WSU Small Business Development Center, Washington Technology Center and SIRTI are offering "How Small Businesses Can Successfully Commercialize Technology" seminars based on Foresight Science & Technology's instruction to SBIR awardees.

This will be an overview of the process of commercialization including how to: Determine entry markets; Find customers; Develop a commercialization strategy; Find commercialization partners and funding; Value your technology; Determine royalty rates; Develop a term sheet and Conduct negotiations. The presentation includes many real-world examples and attendees are encouraged to ask questions.

Cost is $25 per session. Two different sessions per day will be offered. Register online for one or both:
REGISTRATION WEBSITE: wsbdc.org/training-calendar – Please register by June 9th

International Trade

2010-04-29T15:17:00.000-07:00

Export Training

Business owners, managers and employees, and career professionals can learn about the export process and how to overcome common mistakes made by exporters at two international trade seminars in May in Spokane.

The “Washington State Export Certification Course,” certified by the Washington State Department of Commerce, will take place May 10-11. “Exporting Under NAFTA” will take place May 12. Both courses will be at Washington State University Riverpoint Campus in Spokane, WA. Go to www.wsbdc.org to register.

Finance

2010-04-05T10:06:00.000-07:00

Current News on Relief Programs

Loans

From the U.S. Small Business Administration

On March 26, 2010, the President signed legislation (H.R. 4938) that permits SBA to use up to $40 million of existing appropriations to fund new 7(a) and 504 loans under Sections 501 and 502 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “Recovery Act”). Specifically, these funds are available for the payment of certain 7(a) and 504 loan fees and a higher SBA guaranty for eligible 7(a) loans.

In addition, this legislation extends SBA’s authority to provide a higher guaranty for eligible 7(a) loans to April 30, 2010. Go to the SBA website for details.

Tax Credits for Hiring

From Sentator Cantwell's office

The HIRE Act creates a payroll tax exemption and tax credits for employers that meet certain eligibility requirements. The legislation immediately enhances employers’ cash flow by permitting employers to retain the 6.2% employer portion of the Social Security tax.

Social Security Tax Exemption: The 6.2% employer Social Security tax exemption applies to previously unemployed individuals hired after February 3, 2010 who have worked less than 40 hours during the 60-day period prior to employment and whose 2010 earned wages after March 18, 2010 and before January 1, 2011 do not exceed $106,800.

Employers can save the 6.2% Employer Social Security Tax, whether they hire a $40,000 worker, or a $90,000 worker. Employers, including nonprofit organizations, and colleges and universities, would not have to wait until 2011 to benefit from this tax relief because savings would accrue with each payroll processed.

The legislation also encourages businesses to hire workers earlier in the year because the tax benefit will be greater. For example, a $60,000 worker hired on April 1 saves an employer about $2,800 in taxes. Delaying the hiring until June 1 would reduce savings to about $2,200.

This exemption has no cap or limit as to the total amount of tax benefits that can be claimed by an employer. Employers can save up to $6,622 per qualifying worker, whether they hire one worker or hundreds of new workers.

Tax Credit Employers will receive an income tax credit, which is either $1,000 for each qualifying worker hired after February 3, 2010, and employed for at least 52 consecutive weeks, or 6.2% of wages paid to the qualifying worker over the 52-week period, whichever is less. Wages during the last 26 weeks must be at least 80 percent of wages paid for the first 26 weeks.

Any new hire must certify "by signed affidavit," under penalties of perjury, that he/she has "not been employed for more than 40 hours during the 60-day period ending on the date such individual begins such employment."

Neither the 6.2% Employer Social Security Tax exemption nor the retention tax credit is permitted if a person is hired to replace another employee "unless such other employee is separated from employment voluntarily or for cause."

Technology

2010-03-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

From: Mary Sullivan, Marketing Co-Chair, Pacific Northwest Clean Tech Open:

Cleantech Open Launches 2010 Pacific Northwest Competition

The 2010 Cleantech Open Competition for clean technology start-ups is underway, with several key dates approaching:

-- April 22, 2010 is the Early Bird Entry Deadline, after which the entry fee increases from $149 to $199 for students, and from $199 to $249 for professionals.

-- Those interested in entering should attend the Executive Summary Webinar, on May 4 from 4:00 to 6:00pm PDT. Click here to register. This briefing will answer questions and help contestants prepare their Executive Summary entries.

Last year, 12 Semifinalists were selected from 56 entrants. Three became regional winners. One, Hydrovolts of Seattle, won the prestigious National Sustainability Award. For information, contact MSullivan@cleantechopen.com.

Accounting

2010-03-11T10:21:00.000-08:00

Tax Time!

If you are self-employed, be sure to check out the IRS website designed just for you: Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center.

This site answers many topics like how to work with independent contractors, filing the right forms, estimated tax, and choosing a preparer.

Human Resources

2010-03-04T16:48:00.000-08:00

For First Time or New Employers!!

The Department of Labor and Industries is holding a free workshop for new businesses or businesses that are hiring for the first time. The workshop is scheduled for March 10 from 9:00 a.m. to noon (with refreshments!) and will be held at the Vancouver offices at 312 SE Stonemill Dr, Suite 120.

The workshop will cover employer’s rights and responsibilities and give an overview of the services L&I provides. It will also cover workplace safety and health requirements, claims management strategies, risk management, quarterly reporting requirements and wage-and-hour laws.

Specific questions about the workshop can be directed to Ron Langley, 360-902-4745, or smallbusiness@lni.wa.gov.

Marketing

2010-03-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

Gear up for Conventions!

In case you missed it, the State Democratic and Republican conventions selected Vancouver as the site for their gatherings. Here are quotes from the Convention and Visitor's Bureau for SW Washington's website:

"VANCOUVER SELECTED AS SITE OF THE 2010 DEMOCRATIC STATE CONVENTION

VANCOUVER, Wash. – October 2, 2009 - Vancouver has been selected as the site of the 2010 Democratic State Convention to be held June 25 and 26, 2010. The convention is expected to draw as many as 2,100 attendees for the two day event.

VANCOUVER NAMED SITE OF THE 2010 REPUBLICAN STATE CONVENTION

VANCOUVER, Wash. – June 23, 2009 - Vancouver has been selected as the host city for the 2010 Republican State Convention to be held June 10 to June 12, 2010. This is the first time in the party’s 150 year history that the convention will be in Vancouver."

These could be great opportunities to sell SW Washington goods and services. Check with the Convention and Visitor's Bureau for more information.

Marketing

2010-02-15T13:42:00.001-08:00

Increase your Sales!

Train yourself

Washington Small Business Development Center is offering a LIVE WEBINAR on Marketing in the Real World of Small Business– February 24 & 25 from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Attendance can be live in person at the Spokane SBDC in the Sirti building, 665 N Riverpoint Blvd., Suite 201 OR virtual via computer. The cost is $49 (half the regular price). A workbook and case study material will be emailed prior to the workshop. Pre-registration is required and can be completed on line at the WSBDC training calendar or contact Cindy Doyl, cdoyl@wsu.edu or 509-358-7890.

Shop Locally

A way to increase local sales is to attend the Southwest Washington Shop Local Business Showcase on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010, from 4 pm. to 7 p.m. at the Red Lion Hotel at the Quay, 100 Columbia Street, Vancouver, WA. This free event includes a no host bar provided by the Red Lion Hotel and networking on-site. This is an opportunity for people to find goods and services locally and make connections with local businesses.

UPCOMING EVENTS!

2010-01-22T14:25:00.000-08:00

Several worthwhile events are being offered. Here are some details:

Business Best Practices: "Web Power: Tips for building a world class, high traffic website; using social media and new technology to build your business" (panel); February 4, 2010; 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Lower Columbia College; Longview, WA. Contact the SBDC at 360-442-2946 to register.

"Commercial Property Success Series Workshops"; February 11, 2010; 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., located at Executive Center Northwest; Vancouver, WA"

Managing in Turbulent Times"; February 18, 2010, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Clark College, Vancouver, WA.

Business Best Practices: "Key business questions for the Strategic Planning Process: Reinventng your business model for new economic challenges"; March 4, 2010; 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Lower Columbia College; Longview, WA. Contact the SBDC at 360-442-2946 to register.

SCORE workshop entitled "How to Manage or Start Your Business in a Tough Economy"; March 18, 2010, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon; presented by SCORE, Vancouver, WA. Details at the SCORE website.

"Evolving Marketing Conversations"; Social Media Conference NW 2010, March 25, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:50 p.m.; presented by Center for Economic Vitality and Technology Alliance Group for Northwest Washington; McIntyre Hall Performing Arts and Conference Center, Mount Vernon, WA.

In the meantime, if you don't see an event here you would like to attend, be sure to check out the Washington SBDC training calendar. If you are unemployed and interested in the Self-Employment Assistance Program, check for a NxLevel training session offered near you.

Self Employment Options

2009-12-31T11:22:00.001-08:00

SEAP

If you are currently receiving unemployment benefits but are interested in starting a business, the Self Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) may be a good program for you. After you have gathered the details on the program, you will see there is a requirement to attend approved business training. Susan Hoosier, from our WSU SBDC office in Longview, is offering a NxLevel Entrepreneur Certification Program that has been approved by the state for SEAP participants.

The program is scheduled for January 26, 2010 and meets weekly for 12 weeks from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For details on program cost and location, contact Lynell Amundson at Lower Columbia College, 360-442-2601.

Self-Employment is a Life-Changing Decision

You are at a crossroads. You are not employed but you want to work. Do you look for a job or is now the time to start your own business? Perhaps self-employment is an intriguing thought but can you be successful as an entrepreneur? Have you identified a business opportunity worth the risk?

The first step in evaluating self-employment as an option is to analyze your potential. Successful entrepreneurs are often characterized as people who are comfortable with risk, are motivated by a long-term vision or goal, and take initiative in decision-making and problem- solving. Other traits include patience, creativity, perseverance, self-discipline, and a strong work ethic. To assess your potential, think back to times when you have demonstrated these traits. For example, have you held leadership roles in job or volunteer efforts to raise funds? Were you a child who enjoyed activities to earn money?

If you lack all of these characteristics, you probably will not be happy in your own business. However, if you lack only a few of them, there are some things you can do. For example, you can obtain training in areas such as creative thinking and leadership or you can team up with others who complement your personality.

The next question to ask yourself is why you want to start a business. Successful business owners are usually high achievers who desire to excel at what they do. They enjoy business as a means of self-expression as well as a way to gain financial security. Self-employment will be less rewarding if the motivation is because you cannot find a job or you have difficulty working for others. Business ownership is much more challenging than holding a job.

Obviously, business success is not entirely dependent on your personal characteristics. Owning and managing a business is a large commitment which is often a lifestyle as well as a career choice. Therefore, spend some time evaluating your personal, financial, and professional goals. Make a thorough analysis of your strengths, weaknesses, and the resources you can contribute to a business. Scrutinize the business opportunity and carefully assess the risks. An acceptable level of risk can be achieved if you have: 1) a good understanding of your industry and your market, 2) the skills and knowledge necessary to deliver a product or service people want, 3) determined ways to overcome weaknesses or gaps in knowledge or skill, 4) committed the required amount of capital and, most importantly, 5) a genuine preference for the work you do.

If self-employment still sounds like an option, find a format for a business plan and begin organizing and detailing your thoughts. (Formats are available through SCORE, Fort Vancouver Regional Library, local bookstores, or the Washington State University Small Business Development Center.) The business plan will help you focus on one thing at a time. Regardless what you determine to be a great business opportunity, you need to know about the specifics of the industry it represents. If you do not have enough experience, seek a job in a business in the same or similar industry and learn from it.

Underlying the risk of business failure is the risk of losing your capital and collateral. Therefore, use what you know about the business to analyze its ability to meet your financial goals. It will take time for a business to generate a profit and return your investment. Your earlier assessment should indicate you have cash and other assets to finance the business during this initial growth stage. This is a good time to establish some short-term, as well as long-term, financial goals and a means for measuring them periodically. You can compare your projections with alternative investment opportunities to determine which is the best route for you.

Self-employment is a big decision. If the timing is right and you are confident of success, go for it! If you are not quite ready but are still intrigued by the idea, investigate some part-time business opportunities. They are a great way to experience self-employment. Whatever you decide, make the most of your unique characteristics and qualities and enjoy your work!

Taxes

2009-12-15T10:22:00.000-08:00

Tax Planning

As the year draws to a close, it is a good time to meet with your Certified Public Accountant to make decisions that affect your annual tax obligations. It is also a good time to plan for the new year!

The IRS website has a free Tax Calendar for Small Business & Self-Employed that alerts businesses to important tax deadlines but is also chock-full of interesting tips, information, and resources.

Order yours today!

Raising Capital

2009-12-04T15:35:00.001-08:00

Southwest Washington has an exciting opportunity to be part of the Oregon Entrepreneurial Network!

The first SW Washington PubTalk was hosted by Landerholm, Memovich, Lansverk & Whitesides, P.S. on December 2, 2009. The focus was "Technology Start-up: What it takes and lessons learned." The PubTalk format provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to learn about launching a company and have access to potential investors.

The room at Gustav's Pub and Grill in east Vancouver was packed and there was a lot of positive energy. Representatives from business support services, investors, and entrepreneurs were in attendance.

The event series is part of an effort by the Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council, CREDC, OEN, and others to revitalize the economy in SW Washington. The PubTalk series will continue on February 17, 2010 and will include an opportunity for entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas.

Stay tuned for more on this topic!

Economy

2009-10-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

How much is your local store worth?

I was at a bookstore this weekend determined to buy a specific book. I had already gone online to check the price and whether shipping was free. The bookstore had the book I wanted and, after reviewing it, I decided to purchase it.

Now I had to make a decision. Buy the book at the store or order online. The bookstore price was $5 more than the online, free shipping price. What did that extra $5 buy? Convenience? Personal service? Atmosphere? The ability to preview a book? When I really thought about it, it took about 5 minutes to figure out that it was worth more than $5 to support my local bookstore.

When faced with a similar decision, take a moment and ask yourself what it is worth to you.

Buy local!

Business Success

2009-10-16T15:29:00.001-07:00

Don't miss an opportunity for a full day of good business advice presented by the SBDC in Olympia and other sponsors!

The event, Small Business Conference--South Sound Success, is planned for Wednesday, October 28, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at South Puget Sound Community College, Hawks Prairie Campus: 1401 Marvin Road NE, Lacey, WA. Cost is $55. Click here to register.

If you are a business owner, manager, or entrepreneur in any stage of development, you will get something out of this program.

For more information: Call Tiffany Scroggs, 360-754-6320 or e-mail tscroggs@thurstonedc.com.

Strategic Planning

2009-10-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

Buying Commercial Property

On Thursday morning, Oct. 22nd, Lori Milton, Evergreen Community Development, will be one of four facilitators at Clark College presenting a session of the Commercial Property 101 Series.

Lori sent this note: "The Commercial Property 101 Ownership Series which began Thursday, September 24 at Clark College , Vancouver, WA, continues Thursday, October 22. If you would like to own your Commercial Property vs leasing, 2009 is the year to lay the groundwork. Find out how much wealth you are building for your landlord by leasing, what the real story is on finding a lender, and how the SBA has ramped up the 504 program to help smaller companies."

Business Planning

2009-10-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

The Columbia River Economic Development Council and other sponsors are hosting a conference to assist businesses with planning. Check it out!

Action Plans for Pacific Northwest Companies

Special Event Sponsor: iQ Credit Union
Speaker Sponsors: RSV Building Solutions, Vistage
Community Partners: Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce

Event Details
Location: Hilton Vancouver Convention Center
Date: Monday, October 12, 2009
Time: 7:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Registration: $50 individual, $450 table of 10
Farm-to-Table Breakfast Included

Go to the Columbia River Economic Development Center's website for more details.

Financial Management - Taxes

2009-09-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

I am continually impressed with the Internal Revenue Services' efforts to provide timely, accurate tax information to business owners. The IRS has an e-Newsletter called E-News for Small Business that gives information on training opportunities, links to informative sites, explanations and tips, and the latest on changes in the tax law. I highly recommend you check it out!

Here's an example quoted right out of today's newsletter:
"IRS Announces:
New Materials Available to Promote Awareness of Recovery Act Tax Benefits
As part of a larger effort to increase the awareness and use of tax benefits available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act), the Internal Revenue Service has announced the availability of a vast array of products that help explain several tax benefits currently available to American families. With time running out to qualify for some of the recovery benefits, the IRS has unveiled new YouTube videos, radio public service announcements (PSAs) and multi-lingual informational flyers that provide basic information for taxpayers. The items are available on IRS.gov for partner groups, the media, Web sites and other organizations whose audience could benefit from the new tax changes.

These products are in addition to earlier IRS efforts on YouTube and iTunes to increase public awareness about the tax credits. The IRS.gov official Web site also contains links and complete information about ARRA. The PSAs are in English and Spanish in either 30-second or 60-second formats. The flyers and posters are in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Russian and Vietnamese."

Legal

2009-09-14T13:54:00.001-07:00

If you are looking guidance on Washington laws relating to consumers and businesses, the Washington Attorney General website has a lot of good information. The AG's role is to safeguard consumers from fraud and unfair business practices. The section on "Safeguarding Consumers; Consumer Issues A-Z" is useful for businesses and individuals alike. Just one way to get a quick answer on a legal topic!

Disaster Planning

2009-09-11T09:41:00.000-07:00

The Office of Minority and Women Business Enterprises is hosting a free webinar called "A Roadmap to Business Resiliency" on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Given the floods and snowstorms experienced by SW Washington in the past couple of years, we are reminded that Mother Nature is a force to be reckoned with. However, the webinar also covers other unexpected events like the economic downturn that has hurt many businesses in a variety of ways.

The webinar is designed to help you improve your ability to cope with the unexpected and become more resilient. Register by clicking on the link.

Human Resource Management

2009-09-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

I attended a Clark County Chamber of Commerce event this morning and had a rare opportunity to hear from six insurance professionals about health care for small businesses. I came away with many thoughts about health care and reform but here are some to pass on to you:

* Group plans are available to business owners with an average of at least two "permanent" employees who are employed at the beginning of the health benefit year.
* Business owners who want to provide health plans have many choices--probably too many to sort out cost-effectively alone. Take advantage of expert insurance brokers who can help you meet your needs.
* One of the best ways to keep health care costs down is individual accountability. Help employees educate themselves about best health care practices and encourage them to be accountable for their behavior. This includes letting them know they can ask about health care costs and choose cost-effective treatments.
* Employers can choose from two funding options to help employees pay for and manage their health care expenses: a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Health Reimbursement Account (HRA). Both of which shift some of the employer's cost burden.

When you want to attract and retain the best employees, benefits is a big topic of discussion. If you shop around and know the options, you may be able to offer more than you think.

Human Resource Management

2009-09-03T10:59:00.000-07:00

On October 8, 2009, Landerholm, Memovich, Lansverk, & Whitesides, P.S. is offering a seminar from 7:30-9:30 a.m. covering an Update on Employment Law and 10 Most Valuable Habits for Supervising Effectively and Managing Legal Risk. There is a small fee. If interested, go to their website for details.

Marketing

2009-08-31T14:01:00.000-07:00

The Downtown Vancouver Association is sponsoring a motivational speaking event called "Give Em' the Pickle!" on Thursday, September 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the Hilton. Bob Farrell of Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor talks about how to provide high quality customer service. Thanks to the DVA, everyone is invited but you must contact the Downtown Vancouver Association to sign up.

Intellectual Property

2009-08-31T10:52:00.000-07:00

The August 31 edition of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
newsletter has some interesting content about protecting intellectual property outside the United States. Of special interest is a new nationally accredited IP training package and a link to a site discussing how to protect trade secrets.

Small Business Success

2009-08-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

There is a new report online called Small Business Success Index (SBSI) which is a research study of small U.S. businesses. The SBSI is commissioned by Network Solutions and the University of Maryland’s Smith School of Business and was designed to measure a business owner's asssessment of success. To see the full report and other good information, go to http://growsmartbusiness.com.

Marketing

2009-08-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Is Your Business Customer-Driven?

At the core of every successful business is a clear focus on the customer. Focusing on the customer does more than drive a business’s marketing strategy-- it lays the foundation for the whole business plan. There are several things you must do to create a customer-driven business: 1) understand your customer 2) deliver on your promise; 3) and commit to continuously meeting customer needs.

Understand your customer

Businesses fail for many different reasons. However, failing to understand and target customers is high on the list. Business owners often describe their customers in broad terms--anyone in Vancouver, anyone who drives a car, anyone who breathes! These definitions may define some aspect of your customer but real customers have very discrete attributes. Think about what your customers have in common. Do they share demographic (age, gender, income, location) characteristics? What about their lifestyles and how they make decisions? Once you identify a “profile” of your customer, you need to think like that customer. This is important because customer satisfaction is defined by whatever your customers say it is. That means you need to know what they are thinking and to do that you need to ask and listen. Ask them why they buy from you and what is important to them.

Deliver on your promise

Once you understand what satisfies your customer, it is up to you to deliver it to them. The first step is to create quality standards for products and services. Customers expect you to have goods and services that meet their needs. However, they want other things, too, like good customer service, convenience, and value. How you deliver products and services positions your business in the customers’ minds. You can influence how your business stacks up by giving customers something they might not expect. Examples are: deep or broad selection; friendly people; return policies; buying incentives; bargains; etc. Customers have many choices as to where to spend their money. What do you want your customer to remember about you?

Commit to continuously meeting customer needs

If you keep your customers happy, they are likely to continue trading with you. However, you have to stay committed to a strategy that continuously meets customers’ needs. You also must communicate that strategy to employees. Without their commitment and desire to succeed, the business will fail. Create an organizational culture where 1) commitment to customer satisfaction is key; 2) standards of quality for products and services are clear; 3) employees are accountable, empowered, and rewarded; and 4) feedback from customers and employees is acknowledged and used to continuously improve the business. If you formalize the process of gathering feedback, you can regularly evaluate how well you are doing and make adjustments in the business that keep you clearly focused on the customer. Successful businesses are built on customer satisfaction!

Thriving in SW Washington

2009-08-24T11:14:00.000-07:00

One of the things that gets a business into trouble is straying from simple business principles. At the heart of every business are three basic concepts: 1) market driven trade, 2) profitability, 3) cash management.
1. A market driven business always adjusts to what customers need and it knows how to meet their needs. It also recognizes that the market is dynamic and it is possible that customers don't recognize they have a need. This knowledge inspires innovation.
2. To survive, a business must also generate more revenue than expense. Profits are the source of debt repayment, reinvestment, and distribution to owners. An important tool for assuring profitability is break-even analysis.
3. Profits are not the same as cash. A profitable business can fail if cash is not managed well. This is due to the timing of cash in and out of the business. A strong business manages its cash conversion cycle to assure cash is available when needed. The tool to use to manage cash is a cash budget.
Remember to use your informal management team to help you with this concepts, this includes your CPA, industry mentors, SCORE, and the SBDC.

www.wsbdc.org