2 minute read
Lauderhill Shines
Commissioner Dunn with the first graduating class of Lauderhill Shines
Lauderhill Shines is a an eight-week virtual program to help small businesses in the City establish and stabilize, learning skills that are especially important during the economic and social challenges of the pandemic.
Advertisement
Businesswoman and City of Lauderhill Commissioner Melissa P. Dunn launched this capacity development initiative to help new business owners navigate the initial stages of launch, secure their place in the market and excel.
“The curriculum is really robust, almost like a mini MBA,” Dunn said. The free online classes are taught live by successful business people including Judith Salzar of CEO
Mindset and Commissioners Dunn and Ray
Martin. Every week, experts anchor virtual question-and-answer sessions, which serve as a forum for business owners to share their challenges and to connect with other businesses as well as staff from the City of Lauderhill Department of Planning and Zoning.
PROGRAM MODULES
The Lauderhill Shines program includes a rich study course meant to equip small business owners and startups with all the information they require to thrive. The modules within the program include:
Doing Business in Lauderhill: This first module helps participants understand the rules and regulations surrounding establishing and running a business in the City, as well as codes of conduct and the processes involved in securing permits.
Laying a Strong Foundation: Next, participants learn how to create a business plan and raise capital, as well as the fundamentals of customer service and human resource management.
Getting Customers: The third module touches on how to effectively manage social media, public relations, marketing and sales.
Scale Your Business: The final module is aimed at assisting small business owners to grow their business reach to the local, county and state levels.
PROGRAM BENEFITS
Business owners who complete the program gain access to partner organizations, ongoing support and City resources. Additionally, they have their businesses featured in some of the City’s media outlets, including the biweekly Lauderhill Living E-Newsletter and social media networks. Graduates receive a certificate of completion at an official City of Lauderhill Commission meeting and may also be considered for a feature on the DunnWisdom Morning Show.
“This program will build the capacity of new Lauderhill businesses so that they may succeed and shine during their first year,” Dunn said.
WHO CAN APPLY
Going forward, cohorts will convene quarterly, and the program will be accessible to all businesses based in Lauderhill. The program will be open to all who need help in establishing, growing and scaling their businesses within the City of Lauderhill.
For more information on Lauderhill Shines, interested entrepreneurs, startups or sponsors can call (954)777-2041, email Dunn or check the City’s website at lauderhill-fl.gov/lauderhillshines for updates.
