NEWSLETTER - SMALL BUSINESS

For Entrepreneurs Only...

by Roger Luman, Managing Director of the Turner Center for Entrepreneurship
Spring 2003

Whether you started your business several years ago or yesterday, or you are between business ventures, or thinking about your first entrepreneurial venture, we would like to hear from you.

As most of you are aware, there are some exciting new initiatives, new organizations and new programs being implemented here to create an entrepreneurial driven culture that will encourage new business development. The Turner Center, along with the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce are working with Peoria Next and the new Heartland Illinois Technology Enterprise Center (HITEC) to support and provide resources to entrepreneurs who want to start new business ventures.

Other communities with similar goals have assisted entrepreneurs in establishing entrepreneurial networks.  These networks provide entrepreneurs the opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs and share their experiences and challenges in starting and growing their businesses.  Some of these opportunities to get together include presentations by successful entrepreneurs to their story about what they did and how they did it.  

Several local entrepreneurs have stated that such a network is needed in Peoria. If you are interested in the opportunity to meet with other entrepreneurs, please email us regarding your interest in establishing a local entrepreneurial network. Also, in your response, include your preferences regarding:

. Would you prefer informal meetings? Meetings that include some type of entrepreneurial presentation? Meetings that include time to "network" with other entrepreneurs?

. Regarding presentations, what topics would be of most interest to you?

. What time of day? Morning, noon, afternoon, evening would work best for you?

. What day of the week is best for you?

. What other ideas, suggestions do you have regarding the creation of an entrepreneurial network here in the Peoria area?

Please email us. Include your name, business name/description, and contact information.