Micro-enterprise program lifts start-up businesses
Kettering is proud to present another session of the micro-enterprise assistance program coming in April and May. Now in its third year, the program combines technical business assistance with networking and funding opportunities. Since the program began in March 2022, almost 50 local start-ups and small business owners have attended our courses or were recipients of our funding programs.
The spring 2024 session is geared toward businesses that have been in operation for at least two to three years, while the fall 2024 session will benefit start-up companies and new businesses.
The program kicks off April 10, with the first of four business courses. Sessions will take place every Wednesday from April 10 through May 1, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Government Center, 3600 Shroyer Road.
Session topics include:
■ Working with city staff;
■ Recordkeeping for small business;
■ Financial resources;
■ Lessons learned and next steps.
The final session on May 1 will feature a panel discussion of previous micro-enterprise participants on best practices and reflections on the lessons they learned as they grew their businesses. Community Development Manager Angela Rahman will also present information regarding the 2024 application process during this session.
In addition to the business courses, Kettering businesses that have been in operation for more than two years will also have the opportunity to apply for the city’s matching, forgivable loan program. Businesses seeking this funding will need to put up at least 50% of the project costs with the city contributing the remaining amount. Funding must be used for business expenses such as equipment, marketing and inventory.
To be eligible, a business must be located in Kettering and be a micro-enterprise, which is defined as a business with five or fewer employees, one of whom is the owner. Micro-enterprise business owners must also have a household income at or below 80% of the area median income. Additional requirements apply. The business owner’s income will be verified to ensure the business owner’s income is at or below 80% of the area median income.
The application period will open May 1. Historically disadvantaged businesses such as minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned and disabled-owned are strongly encouraged to apply.