AUSTIN (KXAN) — The City of Austin is offering free classes to small business owners on how to market, finance and plan their business.
“This is the highest attendance since the pandemic,” said Katherine Sobel, program manager for small business.
This initiative is part of Small Business Fundamentals Week 2024.
Sobel said these resources are needed in such a rapidly growing region.
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“We have a little over 38,000 small businesses here in Austin,” Sobel said. “In fact, there are three small businesses per 100 people living in the city, which is better than the national average of two small businesses per 100 people.”
Sobel said the city will hold more such classes during Small Business Week the first week of May.
Sobel said the city also offers free business coaching in addition to training for those looking to start or grow a business.
“Gain extra knowledge”
The classroom attracts small business owners from all walks of life. Among those receiving sessions was Julie Diaz.
Diaz is the owner of Lone Star Renovation & Design in Austin.
“I've been in the business for 10 years,” Diaz said. “My company services both residential and commercial properties. We specialize in all stages of remodeling. We are well known for our craftsmanship and custom work.”
Diaz said he has been in the business for 10 years and is always open to learning more skills.
“With resources and additional classes, you can gain additional knowledge to go further.”
Small business owner Rox Christensen came for the same reason. Christensen is the owner of Ring King.
“I make rings out of guitar strings and wrap them in sterling silver or 14-karat gold. My fingers never turn green,” Christensen said. “In fact, we currently have the best-selling guitar string ring on Etsy. Over 2,000 pieces have been sold.”
Christensen said this is more than just a class for people here. He said it's a community coming together to support each other.
“It helps you believe in yourself a little bit more and it really helps you take bigger steps and bigger strides,” Christensen said.
Musician William Belief was also there to learn from others and network.
“I absolutely want to be a global brand artist. But I also want to have a positive impact on music,” Belief said. “I wanted to know how I could market myself a little better and show not just myself but my brand a little better in front of people.”
Belief said he intends to leave with more connections and stronger skills to continue moving his music forward.
“Because of the resources they gave you, you were able to slowly see your big picture,” Belief said.
