3 minute read
Unlocking Skills & Doors
Emporia’s new Mi Negocio Academy empowers Spanish-Speaking Entrepreneurs
Mi Negocio Academy is a comprehensive program designed to assist aspiring entrepreneurs start their own businesses–conducted in Spanish! This collaboration between the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Development Center at Emporia State University offers valuable knowledge and instruction for Spanish-speaking individuals venturing into the world of business.
Mi Negocio graduate Alonso Hernandez owns Las Catrinas Mexican Restaurant in Emporia. Because of the contacts he made and the resources he learned about during the course, Hernandez was able to connect with local government and utilize services to add a patio at his place of business. This addition has boosted business and helped Las Catrinas create a more unique dining experience. Without the knowledge gained from his Mi Negocio coursework, Hernandez noted that the beautiful outdoor space would not have come to fruition. The course is offered annually, January through May, although resources, advice, and credentialing/certification assistance are available year-round. Mi Negocio participants are introduced to entrepreneurship as it works in the U.S. Through brainstorming and discussion, they evaluate the feasibility and market potential of various business ideas, and choose their focus for further development. The classes cover target market identification; market research to identify customer needs, preferences, and demographics; market segmentation and niche opportunities; personal assets, skills, and resources assessment; and developing a unique selling proposition based on their target market.
participants are introduced to a variety of funding options for their own small business concepts.
Another important aspect of Mi Negocio Academy is an overview of marketing principles and strategies, which leads naturally into creating a marketing plan and setting marketing objectives. Participants develop branding strategies and craft their own individual brand stories, while exploring various marketing channels, including digital marketing. They learn to implement effective marketing tactics and measure the success of their marketing campaigns. Finally, the importance of a business plan is highlighted. Class members receive step-by-step guidance in creating their own comprehensive business plan–and present it in class.
If you want to start a business, but aren’t sure how to go about it, Mi Negocio offers mentoring, referrals for attorneys and accountants, and other helpful resources. The objective of Mi Negocio Academy is to provide–in Spanish–the tools and expertise small business owners need to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey with confidence.
Coursework delves into understanding consumer buying behavior; developing effective pricing strategies; competitive analysis; inventory management and supply chain basics; operations management and optimizing business processes; and quality control and customer service systems. Participants are also introduced to small business financial management, including bookkeeping basics, budgeting, and managing cash flow. Of great importance to any small business,
Hernandez said, “I had a very good experience in Mi Negocio with the different people who came in to talk to us. We met very good people and they help a lot for the businesses in Emporia. Thanks to the Chamber of Commerce for making that program available.”
Learn more about Mi Negocio Academy by visiting the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce at 815 Commercial Street, visiting emporiakschamber.org, or by calling 620-342-1600.
