WMU News

Presentation offers tips on choosing the ideal business location

Nov. 2, 1999

KALAMAZOO -- Two business location experts will provide local entrepreneurs with information on how to find the perfect location for a business Thursday, Nov. 4, at the Kalamazoo County Chamber of Commerce.

"Locating Your Business: Making the Smart Choice" will be presented from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the chamber's offices, 346 W. Michigan Ave. The program, part of a series of workshops offered by Western Michigan University's Women's Business Development Center on the first Thursday of each month, is free and open to the public.

"The workshop should help small businesses locate their physical point of self-interaction, which is their building or storefront, to their clients in an advantageous way," says WBDC Director Pat Guenther.

Speakers Jill Bland and Gloria Spoerl will touch on several topics, including what to consider when choosing a location, what to know about zoning and building regulations, where new businesses are most likely to succeed and the role business type plays in determining the best location.

Bland is a retention expansion ombudsman for Southwest Michigan First, a non-profit organization of local corporate entities that work on regional economic development. Her daily responsibilities include helping companies locate their manufacturing and industrial businesses.

Spoerl, a real estate agent for Kersten Morris, is knowledgeable in small business location. Her presentation will focus on commercial, retail and non-industrial business.

The Women's Business Development Center was established by WMU's Haworth College of Business earlier this year to offer support to women business owners, potential owners and professionals through training, group and individual problem-solving consultation, current business information and networking opportunities.

For more information or to reserve a seat, contact Guenther by phone at (616) 387-2714 or by email at <guenther@wmich.edu>.

Media contact: Pauline Oo, 616 387-8400, pauline.oo@wmich.edu


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