Unlock the secrets to business success with a free bootcamp in Poplar Bluff

Have you ever had an idea for a business and didn’t know where to start? Do you already have a business but want to learn more?

The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce will host a free Early-Stage Business Bootcamp on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from Feb. 11 to March 6.

According to chamber President Steve Halter, the knowledge available will be invaluable to any commercial endeavor.

“This is stuff that people pay tens of thousands of dollars for in their masters to get,” he informed.

Leveraging subject matter experts, the boot camp will feature seminars on topics ranging from accounting, financing, legal matters, banking, marketing, how to set up a business plan, and more.

Gaelle Freer, owner of the Blue Rooster Company and proprietor of a St. Louis radio show, took the course when the chamber hosted a previous session last summer.

“It was very informative,” she said. “It was engaging. I learned lots of new information.”

Freer noted she saw a large improvement in her organization and business acumen after the classes.

“It helped me organize my thinking,” Freer added.

Halter stated the business boot camp is an accessible way for prospective or new business owners to gain necessary education for free.

“It’s one of my favorite programs,” he affirmed. “Everybody has some kind of idea for a business.”

Freer communicated this message for those on the fence about attending, “Sign up, without a doubt. It gives you an idea of what you should do, where to go, and people to talk to. It’s an excellent starting point, excellent middle point, and excellent endpoint.”

The free tuition was made possible by the sponsorship of Innovate Southern Missouri, Missouri State, Efactory, and the Missouri Small Business Development Center.

The sessions will be from 5:30-8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To sign up, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 573-785-7761 or shalter@poplarbluffchamber.org. The deadline to sign up is Thursday, Feb. 6.