We revamped and improved our Building Success Program curriculum – Boot Camp, Tech Steps, and Biz Steps.  In conjunction with that we were able to graduate 59 from our Biz Steps program – exceeding the total of prior three years.  It has been inspiring to see our diverse clientele starting a variety of businesses bond together as a cohort as they progress through the program, become more motivated, confident, and an encouragement to each other as they share their ideas and challenges.

 Our volunteers have been an awesome resource for EGBI.  We are thrilled that of the 70 evening training sessions we held in 2011, 50 of them were facilitated by highly regarded “subject matter experts” in the areas of law, insurance, banking, accounting, and marketing.  Their professional insight and experiences with small businesses has been invaluable for our clients.

 We are developing new services that are relevant and important to our clients including building a small business financing process that we expect to become more important in the coming year.

 Finally, we have ramped up our incubation usage to an all time high and have seen the next generation of clients “graduate” to their own space.

You should look for our first Annual Report to be published shortly.

 In 2012 we are looking forward to growing the number of clients served by 20%.  Additionally, we are very excited as we evaluate piloting at least a couple of new training programs.  Our future success is dependent on a steady stream of passionate clients, dedicated volunteers, and an expanded base of investors to fuel our growth plans.

 We look forward to your support and endorsement of EGBI!

 Sincerely,   Al Lopez

In this first entry, I want to welcome Nayeli Gallegos who has joined EGBI as our first marketing analyst.  With our growing network and expanding programs/services, we are fortunate to have someone with Nayeli’s experience join our team.  As many of you know, Nayeli was previously at the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for several years where she was a great asset.  With her addition, you will see more frequent and complete communications and updates from EGBI.  Her experience and network of connections will bring tremendous value to our organization and the clients we serve.

In my next post I will give you a snapshot of 2011 and a preview to what we are excited about working on this year.

Best, Al

Upcoming Workshops:

May 17th- 12:00 – 1:30pm: Promoting Employee Loyalty

     Tips and resources to create a work environment and benefits package that will keep your employees motivated and loyal to your business.

Register for Building Success Program:

     May 21st: After hours program: Monday and Wednesday, 6:00 pm-9:00 pm (8 weeks)

     June 4th: Lunch time program: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 12:15 pm-1:30 pm (6 weeks)

Call EGBI for more information.

Check out our calendar periodically for our schedule to be posted for 2012 sessions.