From staff reports

ALTUS -- Potential Southwest Oklahoma entrepreneurs have an opportunity to take advantage of a series of free classes at Southwest Technology Center.

"Entrepreneurship, or owning your own business, is one part of the American dream, and 55 percent of adults anticipate they will own their own business. And these numbers grow each year," said Dianna Thompson, small business development coordinator at SWTC. "There are several reasons an individual wants to own their own business including to be in control, to make money, more family time or 'I want to be my own boss.'"

Whatever the reason, the fact is more and more Americans are looking at ways to start up their own business Thompson said. "More times than not, the new business owner does not understand the steps involved to make this 'start-up' venture a success so that their dream can be fulfilled."

To help those interested in starting a new business, SWTC is offering a series of free classes. "Most of the classes will be taught by professionals who have their own business and who are willing to share their personal insights and first-hand experiences," Thompson said.

Classes being offered include:

Jan. 11: Choosing Your New Business

Jan. 18: Your New Business Structure

Jan. 25: Business Plans

Feb. 1: Taxes and Your Business

Feb. 8: Business Record Keeping

Feb. 15: Insurance Needs for Your Business

Feb. 22: Your Business and the Law

March 8: Business Record Keeping.

Thompson said the classes are scheduled as a series but may be taken separately with advance arrangements.

For more information or to enroll, contact the Business and Industry Division at SWTC at 477-2250.