EDC Introduces Business Plan Competition

 — from Victoria Compton, Executive Director, County Economic Development Council —

Launch San Juan Islands Business competition

Entrepreneurs can bring their business ideas to the next level in the first annual EDC “Launch San Juan Islands” business plan competition, created by the San Juan County Economic Development Council.

Participants will receive instruction in business planning and marketing, plus follow-up mentoring— and some will win cash prizes to help launch their businesses.

Thousands of dollars in cash prizes will be awarded to contest winners this year. The greater goal, however, is to help every participating entrepreneur to advance their business.

Included in the program for all participants will be seminars on business planning, marketing, and financing; opportunities to network and collaborate with other entrepreneurs; media coverage for contestants; professional advice from a team of experts, and feedback on business plans.

Launch San Juan Islands will start in October 2015 and run through early December 2015. The cost to participate is $95 (or $75 if registration received prior to September 25, 2015.). This fee covers direct costs for course materials and events. Please see www.sanjuansedc.org/launch for more information.

The EDC thanks San Juan County government, the Town of Friday Harbor, Mark Madsen, Jack Yelverton, the Washington State Department of Commerce, Windermere Real Estate, Valmark and Island Market for supporting Launch San Juan Islands.

The San Juan County Economic Development Council (EDC) strives to strengthen and diversify the economy of San Juan County. We believe a strong economy builds a strong community. The EDC works to build an environment that helps business owners create jobs. We serve business: linking organizations and resources, providing valuable information, rendering assistance and advocating for an improved island business environment.