BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
From the start, CADCB has focused on supporting existing and prospective entrepreneurs through the process of
establishing or growing their own small businesses, with a focus on south Bethlehem residents and business owners, and minority and women-owned businesses.
Business development services include classes, workshops, and one-on-one assistance and training.
CADCB’s approach to business development is led by the business owner, with staff providing education, support, and resources in order to ensure businesses are well-prepared to enter and succeed in a diverse marketplace
The hallmark of CADCB’s approach is the Start Your Business program. Start Your Business classes are offered twice-yearly in the areas of Business Basics, Marketing, Small Business Finance, and Sales and Professionalism. Participants receive comprehensive training from experts in the local business community, and have the opportunity to network and receive support from a community of prospective entrepreneurs. Since its inception, over 175 businesses have been started or sustained through the Start Your Business program, creating over 260 jobs.
In addition to the Start Your Business class, CADCB offers one-on-one technical assistance to existing and prospective entrepreneurs at any stage of the business development process. Individuals in the exploratory stage receive guidance on what it takes to start a business, while those actively planning a future enterprise are guided through each stage of the planning process. Services available for existing businesses include start up support and operations consulting, designed to assist small business owners with streamlining management processes, pursuing opportunities for growth, and increasing sales. Fifty-six businesses have opened as a result of CADCB’s technical assistance program, and an additional 25 existing businesses have received services to sustain or expand their operations.
Finally, CADCB offers personalized marketing assistance to small businesses in the planning or start-up stage, as well as existing businesses seeking to improve their marketing strategies. Services include brand identity development, market research and analysis, marketing strategy development, and marketing channel development, including but not limited to websites, digital marketing, and print materials.
OUR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
STRATEGY
Build on the strengths and assets of our diverse community in south Bethlehem.
Technical Assistance
Prospective and existing business owners are provided technical assistance to develop their skills as business owners. An array of help is available, including: assessing competition; developing marketing strategy; refining sales techniques and production cycles; creating cash flow projections; researching funding opportunities; enhancing computer skills; assessing community resources; and understanding and managing risks.
Start Your Business Classes
CADCB offers an 18 session Start Your Business course for residents of Bethlehem seeking the know-how to own and operate their own businesses. Guest experts from the local business community assist in presenting and strengthening course material. Individualized assistance is provided, and students are guided through the process of developing a business plan.
Marketing Assistance
CADCB offers personalized marketing assistance to small businesses looking to develop a brand, expand their digital presence, or reach out to potential customers.
“It doesn’t matter how many times you fail. It doesn’t matter how many times you almost get it right. No one is going to know or care about your failures, and neither should you. All you have to do is learn from them and those around you because all that matters in business is that you get it right once. Then everyone can tell you how lucky you are.”
“I’m convinced that about half of what separates the successful entrepreneurs from the non-successful ones is pure perseverance.”
“When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.”