Providing resources for communities and entrepreneurs to create and retain jobs in Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan & Emmet Counties.

Trainings & Workshops

February 6-10, 2012

Solar News - Trainings for Photovoltaic and Solar Hot Water Systems
The two solar training courses below are offered at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City this February. The condensed one-week intensives are affordable and convenient.

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Electric Systems - NABCEP Prep
Learn the fundamentals of PV system design and installation.
Feb. 6-10 (Mon through Fri, 8 am-5:15 pm)
$775 (register by Feb. 1).
With an optional NABCEP Entry-Level Test Sat, Feb. 11.

Solar Hot Water Heating Systems - NABCEP Entry-Level Prep
Jump start your career selling or installing solar hot water heating systems.
Feb. 20-24 (Mon through Fri, 8 am-5:15 pm)
$775 (register by Feb. 15.)
With an optional NABCEP Entry-Level Test Sat, Feb. 25.

Both courses are designed for builders, electricians, architects, code officials, construction-related and energy-related business owners, and anyone who needs technical literacy in solar photovoltaic or solar thermal energy. For complete details and to register online, go to www.nmc.edu/energy. To register by phone call (231) 995-1700. For more information, call Bill Queen at NMC (231) 995-1701.

February 7, 2012

Federal Government Contracting 101 (9:00 a.m. - noon)
What does it take to become a successful government contractor? What services and resources are available to a small business pursuing the government market? If your company has been considering diversifying into government contracting, this seminar will give you the insight you need.  Click below for an informational flyer.

Government Contracting: One-On-One Free Counseling (starting at 12:30 p.m.)
Has your company been considering the field of government contracting or are you currently working with a local PTAC Counselor? FREE local appointments are now available at the NLEA office.  A Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) Counselor can help you find out what it takes to sell your goods and services to the federal government and the State of Michigan . Contact the NLEA today to schedule your appointment. PTAC Office Hours are held the first Tuesday of every month at the NLEA Office, 1313 Boyne Avenue, Boyne City, MI 49712. Reservations are required (231) 582-6482.

PTAC Brochure 2011

February 15, 2012

Fundamentals of Starting a Business
Considering starting a new business?  Learn the basics of developing a business plan and recieve workbooks and other resources important to help you think through and research the various aspects of starting a business.The next class is Wednesday, February 15th at the Elk Rapids High School from 6-8 p.m.

March 22   Boyne District Library (Thursday)
April 19      Petoskey District Library (Thursday / 5-7 p.m.)
May 16       Mackinaw Area Public Library
June 20      Charlevoix Public Library
July 18       Central Lake Public Library
Aug. 15      Harbor Springs City Hall
Sept. 19     Indian River Area Library
Oct. 17       Ellsworth - Banks Township Hall
Nov. 21      Jordan Valley District Library
Dec. 20      Boyne District Library (Thursday)

The session fee is $20.00 per business and you must pre-register to attend. Please contact the NLEA office (231) 582-6482 or email info@northernlakes.net to reserve your spot and/or to find out more information.

February 20, 2012

E-Commerce: Doing Business On-line - NCMC
Find the best on-line markets for your products, set up shop on-line, design virtual displas, attract customers, generate sales and avoid on-line scams. Instructor: Kristie Edwards, MBA and E-Bay business owner.
Petoskey Campus - Rm. 279 - Science Bld.
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
$65

February 23, 2012

Social Media for Newbies - NCMC
Enjoy a user-friendly evening of instruction on Facebook, Twitter, IM, and Linked-In. Instructor: Christopher Cerrudo, North Central associate dean of academic technology.
Petoskey Campus - Rm. 279 - Science Bld.
6-9 p.m.
$35

March 7 & 14, 2012

Starting a Business in Northern Michigan - NWMC
Explore the essential parts of starting a business including how a new business fits in to your own personal situation and assessing all of the risks and costs involved. Reconize the requirements needed to start a new business, from knowing if your concept is viable, to developing a thorough written business plan, to finding appropriate sources of funding. 
Parsons/Stulen Bldg. Rm. 225
6-8:30 p.m.
$59

Code:11566
 

March 9, 2012

Using Social Media to Market Your Business - NCMC
Understand the differences in digital communication, develop a social media marketing plan, engage your audience, enhance your on-line presence, monitor trends and increase your customer base. Instructor: Keith Schmidt, New Focus Creative.
Petoskey Campus - Rm. 279 - Science Bld.
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
$65

March 21, 2012

Lending Sources in Today's Confusing Economy - NWMC
If you have a new business concept that is trying to acquire startup money or an established company looking to grow, join Chris Wendel, regional director for the Small Business & Technology Develoment Center, as he shares dozens of relevant funding resources..
Aero Park Campus, Parsons/Stulen Bldg. Rm. 220
6-9 p.m.
$25

Code:11569

Dates and Location to be Announced

Growing Grapes and Producing Wine in Northern Michigan - NCMC
Experts in the viticulture field share their knowledge of grape growing and wine making to save money, improve output, and increase revenue, vineyard costs, return on investment, tax incentives, and best practices.
$35