RARITAN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE: NORTH BRANCH MAIN CAMPUS

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AND NON-CERTIFICATE COURSES

  Entrepreneur Certificate Program

Looking to run your own successful business?
Do you want to maximize your businesses sales and profitability? How about positioning your business in a highly competitive market? If so, then the New Jersey Small Business Development Centers Entrepreneur Certificate Program is for you. The ECP program, jointly sponsored by NJSDBC and New Jersey Community Colleges, covers planning skills to begin expanding and improving business; market skills to organize with the best legal, accounting and human resource tools; market research techniques; comprehensive marketing strategies, including advertising, sales, and promotions; financial management tools, record keeping, tax reporting and more. The statewide 33-hour program covers seven courses. Take one of the ECP courses listed below to improve your knowledge by enhancing your skills in one area or take all seven courses and receive a certificate! The SBDC at RVCC has added 4 free sessions: Entrepreneur Assessment, Business Concepts, How to Obtain Financing and Business Plan Review and Insurance Needs for Your Business.
 

Please note that all courses are held at the RVCC main campus.

 Entrepreneur Assessment
Have you ever considered being a business owner? Do you have the characteristics and fundamentals to run a business? Find out if entrepreneurship is right for you. During the session complete a self-assessment questionnaire to determine if you have the personal characteristics, the financial fitness and the business readiness skills to own a business. Then score and interpret your own results. .3 CEU
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates, LLC
CRN 11777 SB043-01 1 session
Mon Sept 29 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
Business Concepts
Thinking about starting a business or need help with the business you have started? You don’t want to miss this session, which discusses the major areas of concern for business owners. Topics include naming the business, registration, myths about ownership, success factors and where to find help. This session assists you in starting, running and developing your business now and in the future. Also discussed are highlights of each of the topics in the Entrepreneur Certificate Program (ECP) and how this Entrepreneur Certificate Program is structured. .3 CEU
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates, LLC
CRN 11778 SB065-01 1 session
Tue Sept 30 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
 The Business Plan
Business plans are a necessary tool for every phase of business operations, from start-up to expansion. A sound business plan helps you manage your business more effectively and is a requirement for any business seeking financing. Using a business plan to chart your course improves your chances for success. The workshop covers all components of a business plan.  .9 CEU
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates, LLC
CRN 11779 SB001-01 3 sessions
Tue Nov 4, 18 &11 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $120 ($105 tuition, $15 reg.)
 Legal I - Start-up Specifics
The workshop provides basic knowledge of the laws affecting business. Business owners learn how to choose the appropriate business structure, assess business risks, provide adequate protection and establish proper record keeping and controls. .3 CEU
Instructor: Robert Shanahan Esq., Kilcommons Shanahan, LLC
CRN 11781 SB005-01 1 session
Thu Nov 6  6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
 Legal II - Contracts
The course provides the basic understanding of contract law, legal ownership of a business, stock and partnership agreements. .3 CEU
Instructor: Robert Shanahan Esq., Kilcommons Shanahan, LLC
CRN 11780 SB007-01 1 session
Wed Nov 12 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
Marketing Strategies
Failure to define your target markets costs you money and maybe your business. This program offers information about such topics as market research, strategic marketing decisions, advertising, sales, public relations, promotions, networking, and more. It provides an introduction to all phases of a marketing plan, beginning with extensive research and target market identification followed by the development and implementation of a marketing action plan. Learn how to define the markets where your services or products will be most successful and how to implement creative, low-cost guerrilla marketing strategies by investing time, energy and imagination. Topics include resources for market research, profiles of horizontal and vertical markets, the role of strategic database technology, and the anatomy of the sales process. The program also offers an overview of a myriad of up-to-the-minute marketing tactics, including: networking, referrals, public relations, events, promotions, media resources, and advertising. .6 CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11782 SB004-01 2 sessions
Thu Oct 1, 9 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $80 ($65 tuition, $15 reg.)

Small Business Record-Keeping
Learn what records you need to keep, how to do your own bookkeeping and use records as a management tool. Key topics include: manual and/or recommended software to use, inventory control, cash flow management, end of month summary procedures, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash receipts, cash disbursements, profit and loss controls, internal controls and back up needed for tax deductions. Participants are asked to bring questions with them to the workshop. .6 CEU
Instructor: Kriste Naples DeAngelo, CPA, MBA & Deb Weyman, CPA
CRN 11784 SB006-01 1 session
Tue Oct 21 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
Small Business Taxes
Learn which type of entity is best for you to structure your company: as an LLC, Sole Proprietor, Partnership, S Corporation or C Corporation. Receive information about tax responsibilities based on the entity you choose, including estimates taxes, sales tax, payroll taxes and corporate taxes. In addition, the course covers tax deductions you are entitled to and would not want to miss. Participants are encouraged to bring any questions with them to the class. .3 CEU
Instructor: Barbara Pena, CPA & Chuck Saydek, CPA
CRN 11783 SB002-01 1 session
Thu Oct 23 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
Understanding Financial Statements
Learn to enhance and clarify your bottom line. Topics include spreadsheets, understanding revenue and expense, structure and relationships, meaningful forecasts and projections, break-even analysis, balance sheets, P&L and cash flow. .3 CEU
Instructor: Kriste Naples DeAngelo, CPA, MBA & Deb Weyman, CPA
CRN 11785 SB003-01 1 session

Tue Oct 28 6:00-8:30pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
 Meet the Pros
Do you know if your business is adequately protected? What insurance coverage does a small to mid-size business need? What is Business Interruption insurance and why is it important to include for any business? What is the difference between Disability Insurance and Workers' Compensation coverage? How does a low-cost or no-cost retirement plan help to retain key employees? How can your business be set up in the most tax efficient way to provide for your children’scollege education or your own retirement? These and all of your other insurance questions will be answered in a clear, concise, and understandable way! .2 CEU
Instructors: Morgan McLachlan, McLachlan Insurance; Craig Hyldahl, CFP, AXA Advisors, LLC; Dan Pepper Esq., Pepper Legal Consulting Group, LLC and Gail Rosen, Gail Rosen, CPA
CRN 11786 SB131-01 1 session
Thu Dec 4 6:00-8:00pm
Cost: Free (reg. required)

 How to Obtain Financing and Business Plan Review
Now that you have written your business plan, learn how to use the plan and take the steps necessary to obtain financing. In addition, bring your business plan to have an expert review and comment on your plan. .3 CEU
Instructor: A commercial lender & Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates, LLC
CRN 11787 SB066-01 1 session
Tue Nov 25 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Next Stage Business Growth Series
In conjunction with the New Jersey Small Business Development Center headquarters and network, the SBDC is proud to offer a new series of workshops and courses designed specifically for small businesses that are poised for growth or next stage development.
Each seminar/workshop in the Next Stage “Master Strategies” series is unique. Developed by subject matter experts and delivered by seasoned facilitators and consultants, these courses, in whole or in part, are intended to provide the knowledge and competencies necessary to take your established small business to the next level of performance.
Participants in each three-hour session have the opportunity to interact with classmates in a variety of activities, in addition to receiving tools, resources and information that reinforce course concepts and have immediate practical applications.

Please note that all Next Stage Business courses are held at the RVCC main campus.

Marketing Up-Stream – Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone
Whether you are hoping to attract larger clients or expand your current base, success often requires a change in the way you market yourself, as well as your business. This powerful workshop lays out the tools and internal analyses needed to find new clients, understand their needs, develop their profile, and overcome barriers to entry. In addition, discover the importance that “centers of influence” have on you and your business, and the various strategies and tactics that the experts suggest will help you assume and convey a more dominant and important role in your industry. .3 CEU
Instructor: Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
To register, call NJSBDC 973-353-1927 1 session
Thu Sep 18 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $149

Strategic Selling System – Process and Practices
This program offers a “bird’s eye view” of database marketing as well as the personal selling philosophy it supports. You’ll get samples of programs that capture client and prospect data and learn how to use this resource to identify and communicate with your target markets. Learn strategic selling skills that help to achieve top performance in your industry. Regardless of what business you’re in, strategic selling skills give you the tools you need to meet your customer goals in today’s aggressive marketplace. .3 CEU
Instructor: Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
To register, call NJSBDC 973-353-1927 1 session
Mon Sep 22 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $149

Exit Strategies: You Can’t Leave Unless You Know Where the Door Is
If you fail to plan your exit, you may end up working until your can’t. In other words, without an exit strategy, you may be leaving your future to fate and money on the table. This workshop discusses the need for goal setting with respect to formulating a plan for retirement attainment. It covers typical cash out goals, processes, options and alternatives, and some common and costly pitfalls. Small business owners who have grown their companies to sizable proportions should not miss the advice this course has to offer. .3 CEU
Instructor: Linda E. Dousis, Administrative Services and Consulting, LLC
To register, call NJSBDC 973-353-1927 1 session
Wed Sep 24 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $149

Business Valuation: Creating a Meeting of the Minds in Real Dollars
Ready to call it a day or begin a new one? If you’re thinking of selling or buying a business, is it priced right? This workshop discusses the right reasons for buying or selling a business, alerts you to possible pitfalls and problems, and give you the tools to assess the value of a business. The focus of the workshop is to develop quantitative data that helps establish a meeting of the minds, which in turn provides financial value and a comfort level for the buyer and the seller. Small business owners interested in succession planning, estate planning or insurance planning would also find this workshop enlightening. .3 CEU
Instructor: Linda E. Dousis, Administrative Services and Consulting, LLC
To register, call NJSBDC 973-353-1927 1 session
Wed Nov 19 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $149

Keeping Score…Where’s My Cash?
Are you keeping score and are you winning? Do you know if your business is meeting your financial goals? Do you have financial goals? This workshop is designed for existing businesses and will clearly identify the benefits of cash flow planning and provide a template for financial projections. Learn how to mine and analyze information from your financial statements in order to measure real business performance and make better business decisions for the future. Topics include financial statement ratio analysis, analysis and classification of cash flows and vertical and horizontal statement analysis. .3 CEU
To register, call NJSBDC 973-353-1927 1 session
Tue Nov 25 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $149

SEA - Self-Employment Assistance & Entrepreneurial Training Program

Are you interested in owning your own business? Consider the SEA Self-Employment Assistance & Entrepreneurial Training Program. The SEA program is a cooperative program given by RVCC, NJ Department of Labor and the Small Business Development Center. It is an intensive six-week, 60-hour training program for anyone who wants to start his or her own business. Course topics include: Pre-Business Workshop, Developing a Business Plan, Developing a Marketing Plan, Taxes for the Small Business Owner, Record Keeping for the Small Business Owner, and Legal Formation. At the end of the 60-hour training program, you will have a complete business plan.
To find out more about the program, or to register, please call 908-526-1200 ext. 8404.
Cost: $800. If you are currently on unemployment, a fee waiver is available.

Accounting & QuickBooks Certificate

This program is designed to cover the basics of accounting fundamentals and then apply those fundamentals to QuickBooks. Attend all three courses (Accounting Fundamentals, QuickBooks for Small Businesses, and QuickBooks A/R & A/P - COURSES MUST BE TAKEN IN THIS SEQUENCE) for a total of 18 hours to earn a certificate. Or take any one of the topics listed below to improve your knowledge by enhancing your skills in one area. This complete series will be offered three times during the spring semester. Separately from this certificate program, three new courses have been added: - QuickBooks Inventory and Job Costing, QuickBooks Financial Reports and Forms Customization and QuickBooks Point of Sale (POS). Details are below.

Please note that all Accounting and QuickBooks courses are held at the RVCC main campus.

Accounting Fundamentals
This course is designed to provide students with fundamental knowledge of accounting procedures and is a complement to the QuickBooks 2007 for Small Businesses. Students become proficient in concepts needed for bookkeeping and accounting terminology used to effectively operate financial software. Prerequisite: Basic keyboarding .6 CEU
Instructor: Carla Fallone, MBA, Fallone Business Resources
CRN 11741 AC105-50 2 sessions
Mon/Thu Sep 15/18 6:00-9:00pm

CRN 11742 AC105-51 2 sessions
Mon/Thu Oct 13/16 6:00-9:00pm

CRN 11743 AC105-52 2 sessions
Mon/Thu Nov 10/13 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $99 ($62 tuition, $22 materials, $15 reg.)

QuickBooks for Small Businesses
This introductory course explains how QuickBooks can simplify the accounting process for your small business. Participants learn about the set-up for a small business. Learn how to record transactions, understand the reports generated from QuickBooks and understand the components of the financial statements. (Participants should have knowledge of basic keyboarding.) .6 CEU
Instructor: Carla Fallone, MBA, Fallone Business Resources
CRN 11846 SB016-01 2 sessions
Mon/Thu Sep 22, 25 6:00-9:00pm

CRN 11847 SB016-02 2 sessions
Mon/Thu Oct 20/23 6:00-9:00pm

CRN 11848 SB016-03 2 sessions
Mon/Thu Nov 17/20 6:00-9:00pm

Instructor: Linda E. Dousis, Administrative Services & Consulting, LLC
CRN 11849 SB016-01 2 sessions
Mon/Thu Dec 8/11 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $99 ($69 fee, $15 lab fee, $15 reg.)

QuickBooks A/R and A/P for Small Businesses
This intermediate course is designed to put the student in a simulated real business environment managing both the Customers/Sales and Vendors/Expenses capabilities in QuickBooks. Accounts Receivable transactions include creating customer and job lists, setting up item (product) lists, creating quotes, tracking employee time for customer jobs, applying customer payments, journal entries, and Accounts Receivable reporting. Accounts Payable transactions include setting up vendors, list, preferences, processing vendor invoices, credit card statement payments, applying invoices to customer jobs, batch and single check process, voiding checks, journal entries and Account Payable reporting. QuickBooks for Small Businesses or good working knowledge of navigating QuickBooks is a prerequisite. .6 CEU
Instructor: Cindi Ebert, MBA, Ebert Consulting Services
CRN 11850 SB129-01 2 session
Tue/Thu Oct 7, 9 6:00-9:00pm

CRN 11851 SB129-02 2 sessions
Mon/Wed Nov 3, 5 6:00-9:00pm

CRN 11852 SB129-03 2 sessions
Tue/Thu Dec 2, 4 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $99 ($69 fee, $15 lab fee, $15 reg.)

QuickBooks Point of Sale (POS)
Attendees learn to perform a number of tasks using QuickBooks Point of Sale (POS). Participants learn how POS helps manage a store, navigate through QuickBooks POS, make a sale, manage inventory, create purchase orders and receive merchandise, run reports, customize documents and reports, complete an end-of-day procedure, and understand integration with QuickBooks Financial Software. QuickBooks for Small Business and QuickBooks A/R and A/P, or a good working knowledge of QuickBooks Financial Software is a prerequisite. .3 CEU
Instructor: Cindi Ebert, Ebert Consulting Group, LLC, Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor & Certified QuickBooks Point of Sale ProAdvisor
CRN 11790 SB186-01 2 sessions
Tue Oct 21/23 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $99 ($49 fee, $15 lab fee, $15 reg.)

NEW!
Understanding How to Obtain Pertinent Financial Information from QuickBooks Reports
Participants review the financial management information available in QuickBooks standard reports from basic definitions to the value of each report in managing the operations of the business. Additionally, the course discusses how to modify report to obtain the information specific to your operations. .3 CEU
Instructor: Linda E. Dousis, Administrative Services and Consulting, LLC
CRN 11792 SB188-01 1 session
Tue Oct 28 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $79 ($49 fee, $15 lab fee, $15 reg.)

QuickBooks Financial Reports and Forms Customization
This course familiarizes attendees with the reports in the QuickBooks Customer, Vendor and Employee Report Centers. Participants learn how to run their businesses more efficiently by customizing forms (invoices, credit memos, sales receipts, sales orders, purchase orders, statements, and estimates). These comprise the sales forms they need to run their businesses on a daily basis. QuickBooks for Small Business and QuickBooks A/R and A/P, or a good working knowledge of QuickBooks Financial Software is a prerequisite. .3 CEU
Instructor: Cindi Ebert, Ebert Consulting Group, LLC, Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor & Certified QuickBooks Point of Sale ProAdvisor
CRN 11791 SB185-01 1 session
Tue Nov 18 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $79 ($49 fee, $15 lab fee, $15 reg.)

QuickBooks Inventory and Job Costing
This course enables attendees to perform the following tasks in QuickBooks Financial Software: inventory - set up inventory tracking, add inventory items to the item list, track backorders, periodically take a physical inventory, determine inventory value and check inventory status; job costing - set up a customer job for each job, set up items to optimize for job costing, assign all expenses to jobs, enter estimates, create invoices, choose the right customer job on the invoice form, and use the QuickBooks job cost reports to learn how a business is doing on a job-by-job basis. QuickBooks for Small Business and QuickBooks A/R and A/P or a good working knowledge of QuickBooks Financial Software is a prerequisite. .3 CEU
Instructor: Cindi Ebert, Ebert Consulting Group, LLC, Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor & Certified QuickBooks Point of Sale ProAdvisor
CRN 11789 SB184-01 1 session
Thu Nov 20 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $79 ($49 fee, $15 lab fee, $15 reg.)

Food-Preneur™ BOOT CAMP
This series of workshops focuses on the special challenges inherent in the management of a small entrepreneurial food company. It is tailored to new or early stage entrepreneurs who want to improve their skills as well as budding entrepreneurs who have a great specialty food idea but are unsure of the next steps. The series covers all of the functions, activities and actions associated with recognizing specialty foods opportunities and creating a business to pursue them. Each workshop in the Food-Preneur™ Series is unique and has been developed and is presented by experienced Food-Preneurs.
Each module of The Food-Preneur series is taught by experts in the food business, people who actually market, sell and develop specialty foods products.  Participants in each three-hour session learn experientially through interacting with classmates. In class activities, tools, resources and information provided lead to learning the business, developing your plan, creating sales, managing growth a creating or refining your product. The takeaways will give you a business and products that are market ready

Ingredients for a Recipe to Success as a Food-Preneur™ Part 1
Explore the Food-Prenurial process and the attributes and essential personal ingredients needed to be a successful Food-Preneur. Learn how to get and where to go for help. Get a “taste’ for how to obtain shelf space and consumer acceptance. Take the Business Background Assessment to determine your strengths, knowledge and skills and to assess gaps in your business expertise and knowledge. Distribution channel dynamics and the complexities of retail trade channels are also examined..3 CEU
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company & Esther Luongo Psarakis, Taste of Crete
CRN 11822 SB190-01 1 session
Tue Oct 28 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Ingredients for a Recipe to Success as a Food-Preneur™ - Part II
Participants are introduced to The FoodPreneur business model template designed to clarify your vision and business model so that you know what your product is and how to produce, market and sell it; and how to manage and operate and what types of capital are needed to fund your business successfully. Upon completion of the course, you can head to the checkout line with a personal “recipe for success” -- your completed Food-Preneur basic business plan model. .3 CEU
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company and Esther Luongo Psarakis, Taste of Crete
CRN 11823 SB191-01 1 session
Tue Nov 4 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Product Development
In the specialty food business, always start with what the consumer wants but know what the retailer is looking for. Learn the importance of understanding Shelf Space Return on Investment and how a Plan-O-Gram can help ensure optimal shelf positioning and the value of packaging. Participants learn about shelf life testing techniques, FDA labeling requirements, the benefits a co-packer can bring to your business and more. .3 CEU
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company and Esther Luongo Psarakis, Taste of Crete
CRN 11824 SB192-01 1 session
Tue Nov 11 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Sales and Marketing on the Cheap
Participants learn the essentials of sales and marketing including creating effective retail trade presentations and sell sheets; sales forecasting; techniques for developing brand image; and integrating the story/message in marketing materials using low cost marketing and Public relations tools . Learn how to position key messages and stories to leverage exposure and drive sales. A case study by Demeters Pantry on effective sales strategies, tools and techniques is reviewed. .3 CEU
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company and Esther Luongo Psarakis, Taste of Crete
CRN 11825 SB193-01 1 session
Tue Nov 18 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Pipeline Development-A Recipe to More Sales
The course takes you through the process of understanding, building and managing a specialty foods sales pipeline and how to convert leads into profitable sales. Learn about distribution channels; systems for targeting the right customers; opportunity analysis tools to calculate potential revenue; gross margin and expected costs of entry for each channel; and lead acquisition (where to find leads) and determining costs A sales pipeline template is also included. .3 CEU
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company and Esther Luongo Psarakis, Taste of Crete
CRN 11896 SB194-01 1 session
Tue Nov 25 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

The Ingredients to Opening Your Retail Business
Participants use case studies from The Celentano® Stores and other retail concepts. Learn about target demographics, the importance of trends convergence; and site selection. (Location, Location, Location!) Learn design with “Purposeful Theater” in mind for concept differentiation. Forecasting techniques, build-up, demographics, psychographics, business model assessment tools, profit and loss projections, labor forecast and other topics are examined and discussed. .3 CEU
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company and Esther Luongo Psarakis, Taste of Crete
CRN 11897 SB195-01 1 session
Tue Dec 2 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Putting it All Together: Peer Group Session
Upon completion of the FoodPreneur Series, join fellow FoodPreneurs in a mentoring session, to help turn learning into action. Instructors assist with outlines for the Business Plan summary, sales forecast model, retail trade presentation and promotional and marketing plan.. .3 CEU
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company and Esther Luongo Psarakis, Taste of Crete
CRN 11828 SB196-01 1 session
Tue Dec 9 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

  BUSINESS PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS  
 

SBDC is offering the following classes for senior citizens. Register now and take advantage of these valuable sessions. *(Senior discounts do not apply to these classes.)
 

Seniors – Start a Consulting Business
You have great skills and experience; “take control of your own destiny” and put your skills and experience to work when and where you want. This seminar covers the number one necessary and sufficient ingredient for starting a successful consultancy, the four steps to guaranteeing a continuous stream of clients, the secret to differentiating yourself from all of the other consultants in the market, and more. .3 CEU
Instructor: Ed Dolan, Organization for Entrepreneurial Development
CRN 11795 SB197-01 1 session
Tue Oct 7 1:00-4:00pm
Total: $25 ($10 tuition, $15 reg.)

Launching a Home Based Business for Seniors
Not ready for full time retirement? Looking for a flexible lifestyle? Hate commuting? Launching a legitimate home-based business may be the answer. This program gives you the know-how to get started including: the pros and cons of entrepreneurship, key elements of a business plan, steps to set up a legal entity, where to find free help and support to launch and grow your business, what to expect in the home-based environment, pricing strategies, and tips for identifying and reaching your target market. This class helps you explore the know-how to get started! .3 CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11897 SB168-01 1 session
Wed Oct 8 9:00am-12:00pm
Total: $25 ($10 tuition, $15 reg.)

Turn Your Hobby into a Business
One of the most time-tested rules of success in business is “Do what you love.” This session is geared for those who want to turn a favorite hobby into a successful business. The program includes the key steps to setting up and operating a profitable business, the number one necessary and sufficient ingredient for starting a successful business, and four critical resources and how to obtain them. .3 CEU
Instructor: Ed Dolan, Organization for Entrepreneurial Development
CRN 11829 SB163-01 1 session
Thu Oct 9 9:00am-12:00pm
Total: $25 ($10 tuition, $15 reg.)

   ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP SERIES

(ELS) Entrepreneurial Leadership
Expanding your single-person, entrepreneurial business to one that will require multiple employees requires a new approach and careful planning. This course will help you reassess your business vision and make the transition from creator of the company to leader of employees in an operation focused on growth. We will take a fresh look at the basic areas of your business and re-evaluate the vision plan for the next five years of your business operation, focusing on your mission and what you need to do in the next 12 months to move your company to the next phase. We will also examine the critical success factors you’ll need to develop your marketing and sales plans for optimum success.
.3 CEU
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates, LLC
CRN 11853 SB206-01 1 session
Wed Oct 8 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

NEW
(ELS) Results-Oriented Operations
Once you have developed the vision, mission, marketing and sales plan to expand your entrepreneurial operation, what is next? This course offers guidance to help you ensure that your growing company is operating in the most effective manner. Learn how to plan for and create efficient and productive operations and implement necessary changes from a process, personnel and finance perspective. We’ll also discuss a review process that will help ensure that your business achieves the desired results. .3 CEU
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates, LLC
CRN 11858 SB208-01 1 session
Wed Oct 15 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

NEW
(ELS) Measuring and Obtaining Results
This course takes the final step in looking at your expanding business from a productivity perspective. Once you have created your vision and mission and outlined your operating process, it is critical to be able to measure the effectiveness of your marketing, sales and operations. This course will offer ways to help you set key goals and objectives and measure results to determine if the business is on track. Learn how you can turn your company into a pro-active, results-driven operation through development of a monthly, quarterly and yearly analysis process that allows you to review the business in a timely manner and take corrective action as needed.
.3 CEU
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates, LLC
CRN 11857 SB207-01 1 session
Wed Oct 22 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
 

Anatomy of a Sale
No one is a "born salesperson," yet we all live by selling something. Regardless of one’s role in business, strategic selling skills know-how helps to meet today’s challenges and to succeed. Based upon a relationship-building, customer-driven approach, the "Anatomy of a Sale" is a valuable resource and selling system that gives you the confidence to unleash your earning potential and to achieve your goals. .3 CEU
Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11860 SB209-01 1 session
Wed Oct 8
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Technology Resources for Small- to Medium-Sized Businesses
Innovative technologies are emerging at a rapid pace to enhance the workflow and profitability of small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Increasingly, top technology vendors have discovered that it is profitable to lure “the little guy” and the net result is that you, as the business owner, can benefit profoundly from a number of free, low cost, and advertising-supported technologies. Technology options range from doing it yourself to finding a pre-packaged but cost-effective solution. This seminar scratches the surface on a number of SMB technology solutions, from telephone systems to project management/collaboration tools to advertising solutions. .3 CEU
Instructor: Michael Vinegra, PharmacoMedia LLC
CRN 11809 SB173-01 1 session
Sat Oct 18 9am-12noon
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

How to Get Word of Mouth . . . World’s Best-Known Marketing Secret
Although most business people know that Word-of-Mouth (WOM) builds credibility, trust, sales, and profitability, few truly understand how to accelerate the decision-making process using strategic WOM advocacy and peer influence. The least expensive form of marketing, WOM advertising or publicity is a marketing tool that is driven by ‘buzz.’ This program explores the critical elements of a WOM campaign. Make a major commitment to WOM and you’ll get qualified prospects plus repeat and referral clients knocking at your door without spending a fortune. .3 CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11811 SB132-01 1 session
Mon Oct 20 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg)

Networking. . . A Professional and Personal Necessity
How important is networking? Networking is a mandatory fundamental for success for everyone in every industry and career. Networking is life and social skills combined with sales skills. This program explores the why, where, and how-to of networking. You learn what to do before, during and after each event that makes every networking opportunity worthwhile. You discover over 40 places to network and how to be prepared (before, during, and after) each phase of networking. A primary business activity for those who drive revenue (and even those that don’t*), networking is a skill set well worth developing. .3 CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11812 SB087-01 1 session
Mon Oct 27 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
Family Business: Transitioning Sons and Daughters to Maintain the Family Business Heritage.
Learn how to resolve family business conflict, assess family business dynamics, create family councils, and manage business and family succession. Practical techniques such as in-class negotiation, role playing and conflict-resolution exercises are used. A process to manage the performance of family employees and structure compensation to avoid damaging family relationships is also covered. .9 CEU
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company (successor to Celentano Bros. Inc)
CRN 11808 SB189-01 3 sessions
Tue,Wed,Tue Oct 14, 29 & Dec 16 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $99 ($84 tuition, $15 reg.)
Selling for the Non-Professional
Many people are uncomfortable selling. However, in today’s business world the need to sell your goods and services is vital to the success of your company. Come learn simple techniques to feel more comfortable in front of your prospects and increase your close rate. .3 CEU
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates, LLC
CRN 11866 SB210-01 1 session
Wed Oct 29 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Forming a Business in New Jersey and in Somerset and Hunterdon Counties
Are you trying to decide what business entity is right for you and where to get information
and forms to start your business entity? This session offers the pros and cons of various types of business entities. The interactive, hands-on session in the computer lab guides you though the procedures and forms necessary for federal, state and county filing requirements to establish a business in New Jersey and within Somerset and Hunterdon County. .2 CEU
Instructor: Carla Fallone, MBA, Fallone Business Resources
CRN 11813 SB116-01 1 session
Thu Oct 30 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Communicating For Success – In Print; In Person
Discover how to stand out and get people to read, listen, remember and want what you are selling – and want it from you. Learn techniques and concepts you can apply whether you are presenting a proposal, negotiating a contract, creating a brochure, or writing copy. .2 CEU
Instructor: Ellen Silverman, ESAmarketing
CRN 11810 SB178-01 1 session
Wed or Tue Nov 4 6:00-8:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
How to Negotiate an Office Lease
This course provides a comprehensive understanding about the strategies of successful real estate negotiations. The course is not only for the novice, but also the real estate pro. Office space leasing is emphasized. This course also includes a brief overview of industrial and retail leasing.
.3 CEU
Instructor: Robert Stark, EVP, Illva Saronno Corporation
CRN 11867 SB211-01 1 session
Tue Nov 11 6pm-9pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Next Step I
Now that you are certified or registered as a small, woman- or minority-owned business, how do you take the next step? Learn about the 57 state agencies that provide services to small business, how to get your bid application from the Department of Treasury, the different types of contracts and how you get paid, and more. You also receive information about “T” numbers; how to get free assistance to help you understand, complete and submit a bid; and what to include on your to-do list. Receive a comprehensive list of websites giving information about right to the new and existing contracting opportunities, as well as contact information for buyers of all 57 state agencies! .2 CEU
Instructor: NJSBDC
CRN 11814 SB013-01 1 session
TBD 9:30-11:30am
Free (reg. required)

Next Step II
Small business owners and those who operate minority-owned and women-owned businesses learn about such topics as bid application, bid opportunities, Request for Proposal, scope of services, vendor responsibilities, key points of contracts, and how to get free assistance. The emphasis is on government information and a corporation is addressed as well. The program features a state buyer representative from the Department of Treasury and a corporate representative. .2 CEU
Instructor: NJSBDC & NJ Commerce
CRN 11815 SB023-01 1 session
TBD 9:30-11:30am

Trade Showmanship and Event Marketing For Success
Are you a seasoned trade show warrior or a novice? Be prepared, because the business of exhibiting is changing fast. Find out what you don’t know about trade shows and how to: set goals, select the right shows and space, design a customer-centric exhibit, promote (before, during and after), capture the interest of those passing by (in less than 7 seconds), staff preparation, qualify visitors, and get the best ROI. You’ll never pass up another marketing event again…they’re investments that PAY. .3 CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11834 SB049-01 1 session
Thu Nov 13 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Trademarks: Identifying Intellectual Property – and Keeping It Valuable
When business owners are asked to identify their firms’ most valuable assets, they may not realize that logos, names or slogans which identify the source of goods or services may qualify for trademark protection. Trademarks, a form of Intellectual Property, are a substantial asset for any company, not only because they help create and maintain goodwill and brand identity, but also because they have significant economic value as well. Discussion covers what does and does not qualify for trademark protection and how to go about applying for trademarks and service marks registration and the benefits registration provides to the firm. .3 CEU
Instructor: Kristen Perry, Esq.
CRN 11835 SB202-01 1 session
TBD 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Inter-Generational Communication and Marketing Messages
Are you a Gen Xer selling to a Boomer? Are you a Gen Xer marketing to Gen Y? How do you treat Matures and Millennials? Or are you simply confused about the generations? The challenge is to identify of each generation and to adjust your outreach accordingly because certain values are age specific while other values are universal. Generations are affected differently by factors such as advancements in research and technology, prosperity and depression, political and economic conditions, trends, fads, war and peace. As people enter each new stage of life they continue to be influenced by the deeply implanted preferences and factors specific to their generations. This program reveals those factors, motivations and values in preparation for meeting the specific needs of your audience. .3CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11836 SB138-01 1 session
Thu Dec 4 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
Retail Experience Differentiations
Every time a customer or shopper enters your store, you have a captive audience that needs a variety of products and services. Your time-starved customers seek rewarding shopping experiences and simple solutions; but unfortunately, they are often met with borderline services, inadequate products, and uninspired retail environments. An alarming statistic: 40% of new shoppers who enter your store will not come back if they have not made a purchase. Retail Experience Differentiations offers foundations for creating the kind of exciting, dynamic environment that will attract new shoppers and keep customers coming back and buying more. It’s all about six tips for customer loyalty and lifetime value.
.3 CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11869 SB212-01 1 session
Wed Dec 10 6:00-9:00
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
Big Marketing on a Small Budget: Unconventional Marketing and Case Studies
Looking for new ideas to make your business stand out in our highly competitive, global economy? Unconventional marketing is the key to gaining the multiple exposures you need to achieve the brand recognition and trust within the target market you are best suited to serve. Marketing is a discipline to be learned and practiced 24/7. This workshop offers clever, differentiated strategies and tactics, a video of case studies, and examples of collateral materials that help you launch the best tactics to achieve the repeat and referral business you need for long-term success. .3 CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11837 SB201-01 1 session
Thu Dec 11 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

The Basics of Selling On
Learn how to buy and sell like a pro! Founded in 1995, eBay provides a global trading platform where practically anyone can trade practically anything. This course offers an introduction to eBay, the most popular shopping destination on the internet. Learn how to become a registered ‘eBay-er’, research the marketplace, create an eBay listing, and conduct successful transactions. Get ‘tips’ from a veteran, ‘Education Specialist Trained by eBay’ who shows you how easy and fun it is to buy and sell on eBay. Conducted in the computer lab where you have direct access to the internet, this class gives you the opportunity to explore eBay firsthand. .6 CEU
Instructor: Vicki Lynne Morgan, CMS, Russmor Marketing Group
CRN 11838 SB055-01 2 sessions
Mon, Wed Oct 27, 29 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $75 ($40 tuition, $20 book fee, $15 reg fee)

 FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, SOMERSET COUNTY

(NON-CERTIFICATE) TRAINING COURSES

The following sessions are held at RVCC in Franklin (Somerset County). For this location, please notify us a week in advance if there are any handicap needs.

Are You an Entrepreneur?
Have you ever considered being a business owner? Do you have the characteristics and fundamentals to run a business? Find out if entrepreneurship is right for you. Participants complete a self-assessment questionnaire to determine if they have the personal characteristics, the financial fitness and the business readiness skills to own a business. Those attending then score and interpret their own results. .3 CEU
Session is held at RVCC in Franklin, Somerset County
Instructor: Conny Jasper, MBA
CRN 11839 SB179-07 1 session
Thu Oct 2 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

First Steps of Starting and Planning a Small Business
If you are an entrepreneur who is planning to start or has recently started a small business, the session is for you. Review the areas of concern to most business owners, including business structure, registering the business name, business planning, how to effectively use an accountant and attorney, and where you can go for assistance in starting, running and developing your business. .3 CEU
Session is held at RVCC in Franklin, Somerset County
Instructor: Conny Jasper, MBA
CRN 11840 SB180-07 1 session
Thu Nov 11 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Overview of a Business Plan
Discover what elements comprise a sound business plan and why every business needs one. Businesses don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan. Find out how to identify your company’s strengths, overcome inherent weaknesses, recognize product and market opportunities and forecast your businesses financial requirements. .3 CEU
Session is held at RVCC in Franklin, Somerset County
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates
CRN 11841 SB181-07 1 session
Tue Dec 2 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)
 

FLEMINGTON, HUNTERDON COUNTY

(NON-CERTIFICATE) TRAINING COURSES

The following sessions (EXCEPT "Are You an Entrepreneur?" and "Building & Financing Your Business with the SBA & Other Lenders) are held at Affinity Federal Credit Union on Route 202S in Flemington (Hunterdon County). For this location, please notify us a week in advance if there are any handicap needs.

Are you an Entrepreneur?
Have you ever considered being a business owner? Do you have the characteristics and fundamentals to run a business? Find out if entrepreneurship is right for you. Participants complete a self-assessment questionnaire to determine if they have the personal characteristics, the financial fitness and the business readiness skills to own a business. Those attending then score and interpret their own results. .3 CEU
Session held at the Hampton Inn, Route 202S & Church Street, Flemington, Hunterdon County
Instructor: Karen Katcher, Katcher Associates
CRN 11842 SB179-08 1 session
Tue Oct 7 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

First Steps of Starting and Planning a Small Business
If you are an entrepreneur who is planning to start or has recently started a small business, the session is for you. Review the areas of concern to most business owners, including business structure, registering the business name, business planning, how to effectively use an accountant and attorney, and where you can go for assistance in starting, running and developing your business. .3 CEU
Session held at Affinity Federal Credit Union, Route 202S, Flemington, Hunterdon County
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company; Conny Jasper
CRN 11843 SB180-08 1 session
Wed Nov 5 6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($25 tuition, $15 reg.)

Overview of a Business Plan
Discover what elements comprise a sound business plan and why every business needs one. Businesses don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan. Find out how to identify your company’s strengths, overcome inherent weaknesses, recognize product and market opportunities and forecast your businesses financial requirements. .3 CEU
Session held at Affinity Federal Credit Union, Route 202S, Flemington, Hunterdon County
Instructor: Dom Celentano, Celentano & Company
CRN 11845 SB181-08 1 session
TBD
6:00-9:00pm
Total: $40 ($29 tuition, $15 reg.)

Building and Financing Your Business
Are you an entrepreneur who needs to learn more about financing your small business and meeting the people who can assist you? The first part of this special event explains the process of how a small business owner can obtain financing: different methods, various lenders and what resources are available to small businesses. During the second part, lenders are available to answer, review and discuss issues one-on-one with the business owners. Light refreshments are served.
Session held at the Hunterdon County Administration Building, Route 12, Flemington, Hunterdon County
CRN 11844 SB053-08 1 session
Wed Nov 5 12:00-2:00pm
Free (reg. required)