MERIT's programs and services are designed to help you get the training and advising you need in order to start, grow and sustain a successful microenterprise.

MicroEnterprise Training Orientation

The first step is to attend an orientation session to find out what our program can do for you.

Orientations to the MicroEnterprise Training are held throughout the year for people interested in finding out more about our program. In a three-hour session, you will be introduced to the hands-on learning style used throughout the training, you will learn more about the curriculum and other services available, and will have the opportunity to evaluate your business readiness.

Where, When and How Much?

The orientation is FREE to anyone interested, and is offered frequently in Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties.

Sign up today! See ourcalendar of upcoming orientations and trainings, or call us at (503) 399-5088 for questions, information and registration.

MicroEnterprise Training

A 30-hour training course to build your business skills.

Our training uses experiential learning to teach basic business concepts to people interested in starting their own businesses. The curriculum is designed to provide you with many of the essential skills and tools for running a business. Likewise, it prepares and assists you with writing a business plan.

Topics Covered

• Budgeting and basic record-keeping
• Allocating income and planning
• Selling for profit
• Selling on credit and managing risk
• Generating financial statements
• Costing and pricing a product or service
• Knowing your competition and markets
• Understanding the components of a business plan

Where and When?

MicroEnterprise Trainings are offered in Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties several times a year.

See ourcalendar for a list of upcoming trainings.

What are the Qualifications and Cost?

Entry to the program is based on your business idea and your personal readiness to begin. During a one-on-one appointment with the Program Manager these qualifications will be evaluated to determine your fit in the program. Appointments are made at the orientation session.

There is NO COST to those who are income qualified. Call for current income limits. In return, you must be willing to commit to all 30 hours of training plus follow-up business advising.

What's the Catch?

NO CATCH - This program is about helping people get the training they need to become successful business owners.

Self-employment is a proven way for people to increase income and assets and become economically self-sufficient. If you've thought about self-employment, now may be the time! Sign up today!

See ourcalendar of upcoming orientations and trainings, or contact us at (503) 399-5088 for questions, information and registration.

One-on-One Business Advising

On-going support and technical assistance

Not only do we want to help you start or improve your business, we want your business to be successful!

Therefore, we offer MicroEnterprise Training participants free individual advising sessions with experienced business advisors. Advisors are available to assist you with the development of your business idea and business plan, and are available for ongoing business support and technical assistance as you start and grow your microenterprise.

Other Services

To help your business grow

• Scholarships for advanced training through Chemeketa's Small Business   Development Center

• Assistance finding markets and sources of funding

This is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Program.