How to launch and operate a small business is the focus of a free series of seminars coming to Hayward. The Alameda County Community Development Agency, Alameda County Small Business Development Center (ACSBDC), and Kimco Realty Corp. are partnering to offer a free business Boot Camp for entrepreneurs. The Boot Camp will provide aspiring business owners with a comprehensive overview of the key functions of launching and operating a business, from writing a business plan, to marketing and merchandising, to accessing capital.
The Boot Camp was introduced on June 12 at Creekside Center in Hayward with a reception and short overview of the KEYS program. The first of three boot camp seminars will happen on June 27.
• June 27, Successful Business Plans (8:30 - 11am) 224 W. Winton Ave., Hayward
• July 11, Retailing 101 (8:30 - 11am) 777 B St., Hayward City Hall, 2nd Floor
• July 25, Accessing Capital (8:30 - 11am) 224 W. Winton Ave., Hayward
"Alameda County is enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with Kimco and the ACSBDC to provide Alameda County entrepreneurs with the education and resources they need to start businesses and create jobs," said Nate Miley, County Supervisor for District 4.
"This Boot Camp will help aspiring business owners take the first step toward realizing their dreams," added Armand Vasquez, Kimco's Western Region president. "For those participants who qualify for our KEYS program, we will work intensively to give them the support and tools needed for a successful business launch and beyond."
Registration for the June Boot Camp is available on the ACSBDC website, www.acsbdc.org.
Boot Camp graduates will have the opportunity to apply to Kimco's KEYS program (Kimco Entrepreneurs Year Start), which provides qualified entrepreneurs with a year's free rent at one of Kimco's 109 shopping centers in California. Currently operating in California and Colorado, KEYS is an innovative business incubator program that supports entrepreneurs seeking to launch their first retail venture, service operation or restaurant.
KEYS program participants benefit from:
• One year of free rent
• Affordable property charges to minimize initial costs
• Access to personal Kimco retail business counselors
• A flexible four-year lease option after the first year
• Access to shop space in established retail centers
Entrepreneurs interested in applying to KEYS must submit a written business plan with specific goals and objectives, demonstrate adequate funding for their venture, and participate in a formal interview. Business plans are due to Kimco by Sept. 6, 2013. To apply to KEYS or obtain more information, visit www.KimcoKeys.com.
Kimco Realty Corp. owns and operates North America's largest portfolio of neighborhood and community shopping centers. The company owns interests in 895 shopping centers in 44 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico and South America.