Specialist discusses start-up finances
March 2, 2001
KALAMAZOO -- A business and economic development expert from Kalamazoo will discuss start-up finances for businesses at a Western Michigan University presentation Monday, March 12, in Battle Creek.
Antonio Mitchell, business assistance specialist for the city of Kalamazoo, will present "Business Strategy: Planning Your Start-Up Finances," from 6 to 8 p.m. at WMU's Kendall Center, 50 West Jackson. Part of a monthly series co-sponsored by the Southwestern Michigan Urban League, the talk is free and open to the public.
In his talk, Mitchell will cover the mistakes businesses make before opening their doors; the importance of creating a financial proforma; forming business partnerships; working with financial institutions; and the importance of service to clients.
In his role as business assistance specialist for the city of Kalamazoo, Mitchell is responsible for the city's outreach to local business and industry; he also manages Kalamazoo's small business loan program. During his career, Mitchell has served as executive director of a non-profit organization and as head of economic development for the city of Benton Harbor. A graduate of Central Michigan University, he is an active community volunteer, with an emphasis on bettering the lives of area residents.
WMU's Haworth College of Business established the Women's Business Development Center in 1999 to offer support to female professionals and entrepreneurs through training, group and individual problem-solving consultation, current business information and networking opportunities.
Reservations are required. For more information or to reserve a seat, contact Dizzy Warren at the Southwestern Michigan Urban League at (616) 962-5553 or <dwarren@smulleague.org>.
Media contact: Jessica English, 616 387-8400, jessica.english@wmich.edu