5 Nov 2009
Now is the time to start a downtown buisness
With the Main Street construction complete, it appears as though we have a brand new downtown. This is the perfect time to start a downtown business. I know some of you are probably scratching your heads right now. Yes, the economy as a whole has seen better days. Michigan especially is dealing with some challenges, but with challenges, come opportunities.
If you are serious about starting a business in Downtown Cheboygan, it is important to note that there are many resources at your disposal. The Downtown Development Authority (www.cheboygan.org), Cheboygan Economic Development Group (www.cheboyganedg.com), Chamber of Commerce (www.cheboygan.com), and Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (www.northernlakes.net) are good places to start when investigating the possibility of starting your own business. These groups have their fingers on the pulse of the local economy and are aware of the challenges and opportunities facing the local business climate. To help educate yourself on the Cheboygan community, I urge you to check out the websites of each of these groups.
Speaking of websites… the DDA website has a tab entitled “Business Opportunities.” This section lists vacant properties for sale and for lease. This area also identifies the types of businesses that the local community would like to see in Downtown Cheboygan, and also the community demographics.
The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) is a fantastic resource for anyone in the market to open a new business or even for those who already own businesses. The NLEA recently opened a Business Resource Center in the Cheboygan Public Libarary (www.cheboyganlibrary.org). The Business Resource Center offers a wide variety of print and electronic guides and reference materials covering many relevant business topics, as well as suggested federal, state and local websites to assist with business formation and business planning. The NLEA is able to offer this valuable resource as a result of a partnership effort with local libraries, chambers of commerce, Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center (MI-sbTdc), and Northwest Michigan Works, among others.
Educating yourself about starting a new business is the key to successful business planning. Free and confidential business counseling is available from sbTdc certified business counselors. One-on-one counseling is a free service for individuals who want to improve, revitalize or expand their companies, or develop a new venture. Also, the NLEA offers informative and relevant business workshops targeted for small businesses. Theses workshops are coordinated in conjunction with local chambers of commerce. To schedule a business counseling appointment or to learn more about the business workshops, simply call the Cheboygan Area Chamber of Commerce – 627-7183.
Starting a new business can be an overwhelming process, but it doesn’t have to be if you educate yourself. There are many resources right here in Cheboygan that can help you with your prospective endeavor.
Kirsten Guenther is the Downtown Enhancement Administrator for the City of Cheboygan. Kirsten can be reached at kguenther@cheboygan.org.
