No jobs? Create one
WCC Library now a one-stop shop for all small business needs
Managing Editor
With a shortage of jobs for students after school, Washtenaw Community College is creating another option. Business and Computer Tech Victoria Bennett has helped launch a program called LibraryBiz Connect that aids students starting their own business. “There’s not a million jobs in this economy,” said Bennett. “We want to develop a way for people to make their own jobs.” WCC spent $18,000 to update the Richard W. Bailey Library with resources for starting a business. The resources have gone a long way toward “cementing” the future, so to speak. “We’re the largest concrete business resource center in the state,” Bennett, said, citing one example. Some of the resources include one-on-one business counseling, classes and workshops, market research and loans. The New Chelsea Market used the resources when trying to brand its new grocery store. “It made us more aware of certain things,” said co-owner of the New Chelsea Market Kevin Riley. “We’re on Facebook and Twitter now. A business counselor helped us get a new product group.” The grocery store wasn’t just starting — it’s been around for three years — but still benefited from LibraryBiz Connect. “I highly-recommend it,” said Riley. “When you have a limited budget and you make mistakes, it costs dearly. You have to maximize every dollar. They help you select a new business, and market products. It’s another set of eyes for you, gives you new ideas.” WCC students already in business, or looking to start a business, can use this free resource. “It fits really well with our entrepreneur program and with skills based for self-employment that people learn here,” said Bennett. “If you fix cars, cook pasta or are in child care, you can start a business.”
