Written By Lisa Breslin
On the premise that entrepreneurs drive economies, Carroll Community College is moving the Miller Small Business Resource Center into a new and expanded Miller Entrepreneurial Institute (MEI).
The goal is to increase small business creation and business expansion in Carroll County by delivering outreach, training and technical support.
“At a time when most people are apprehensive about the economy, Carroll Community College is seizing the opportunity to assist our businesses and position them for new opportunities,” said Dr. Faye Pappalardo, President of Carroll Community College. “MEI represents our continued commitment to business owners and entrepreneurs in this county.”
At the core of the MEI program are collaborative credit and noncredit blended classes that pair theory-based instruction with hands-on experience and training.
MEI offers a myriad of resources under one roof, from budget planning to tax strategies, from marketing plans to hiring and firing practices.
“The classes give you the courage to say ÔI can do this.’ And they tell you exactly what to expect,” said Susan Janeczek, founder of Capitol Sales Recruiting.
“MEI paints a perfect picture of business reality for anyone who is going to need to borrow money,” said Doris Ann Pierce, who opened Atlee House Bed and Breakfast in New Windsor under the guidance of MEI experts.
In 2007, Carroll Community College joined in an alliance with three community partners: the Carroll County Office of Economic Development, the Maryland Small Business Development Center (a resident partner) and a private volunteer organization called Start-Up Carroll, to form the Small Business Training Network. Individuals and small businesses can access the full array of local resources by contacting any one of the four partner organizations.
“We are certain that The Miller Entrepreneurial Institute will be the ideal resource for people to either launch new business ventures, or shore up and expand businesses they have already created,” said Pappalardo.
Information: 410-386-8012. – L.M.B.
