The inaugural class of the Build Basics Pontiac course celebrated its graduation this past Monday, March 25.
The Detroit-based small business incubator Build Institute partnered with Flagstar Bank and T. Ramsey and Associates to bring its introductory course to Pontiac. A total of 18 graduates completed the eight-week class.
Tameka Ramsey, owner of consulting firm T. Ramsey and Associates, is a Build graduate. Ramsey was a course leader and hosted the class from her downtown Pontiac office.
"We have seen a demand for Build Basics Pontiac growing for years. It means a lot to have this pilot in motion, and to have had such a dynamic and visionary group in this first-ever class," says Ramsey.
"Our entrepreneurs already have a lot of momentum and offer a lot to our community, and we are thrilled to be able to support them in this way. We are looking forward to all upcoming Build courses and to all that’s still ahead."
Among those to complete the Build Basics course were the Pontiac-based Seoul Rolls On The Go!, handcrafted egg rolls from Jennifer Corr; RSVP Community LLC, a property renovation, rental, and sales company from Renee S. Voit-Parath; and A’Mauri LLC and DBS Management LLC, screen-printing, embroidery, and custom t-shirt companies from Bryan Killian.
The Build Basics course teaches entrepreneurs how to get their ideas off the ground or how to further build an already established business. Topics range from legal structures to money management, market research to financing and lending.
"All across this region we see makers, creators and visionaries taking bold steps to start or strengthen in-demand businesses and invest in their communities," says April Boyle, Executive Director, Build Institute.
"Build Basics--and other Build courses and resources coming down the pike in Pontiac--give us a chance to support and advance the activity that makes Metro Detroit so unique and a great place to live."
The next Build Basics Pontiac course begins Saturday, April 27. Visit the Build Institute online to register.
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