What is a flight?
A North Coast SBDC Flight is a learning program that runs over several weeks or months. Flights are designed around the needs of specific industries, like tourism, artists and craftspeople, food trucks, child care providers, etc.
Is this for me?
If you’re a small business owner—or want to be: yes. Most flight participants are entrepreneurs working to start up a new business. Second-most common are owners of existing small businesses who want to grow an existing product/service line, or expand to reach new customers.
How will I benefit?
You’ll get three experiences in one: workshops, one-on-one advising with an experienced consultant, and team building with others in your industry. At the end of the program you’ll have a solid business plan, more know-how, and supportive relationships with SBDC advisors and classmates that last long past the final session. Past participants include several businesses that are now famous and thriving in Humboldt County.
What does it cost?
One on one business advising is no-cost for everyone. For income-qualified participants, the entire program is provided at no cost, thanks to funding from Humboldt County's Community Development Block Grant. For participants who don’t qualify for the no-cost program, fees usually range from $50 to $200 per worskhop.
If I join in, what do I have to do?
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Apply to see if you’re eligible to join this flight
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Fill out the confidential income eligibility form to see if your expenses can be covered
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Complete your first business advising intake meeting before the workshops begin.
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Attend all required workshops, and as many optional workshops as possible.
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Meet with your business advisor for at least 10 hours of one-to-one coaching during and after the program
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Complete a business plan by the end of the program
