Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Martin County Alliance announces Small Business Startup Workshop

LOOGOOTEE For those looking to turn a side hustle into a career or a “big idea” into a brick-and-mortar reality, the Martin County Alliance for Economic Growth is offering a roadmap to success next month.

The Alliance will host an interactive workshop titled “How to Launch Your Own Business” on Thursday, March 12. The session is designed to demystify the complexities of starting a company in Indiana, covering everything from initial planning to legal requirements.

The workshop will be led by Grant Sherfick, a veteran Business Advisor from the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC). Sherfick, known for his work in regional economic development, will provide attendees with a step-by-step framework for navigating the “startup phase.”

Topics to be covered include:

  • Business Planning: How to draft a lean, effective business plan.
  • Legal Structures: Deciding between an LLC, S-Corp, or Sole Proprietorship.
  • Financing: Understanding local funding options and traditional bank loans.
  • Market Entry: Identifying your target audience in Martin County and beyond.

The Martin County Alliance has made small business growth a priority as part of its broader economic strategy. By partnering with the ISBDC, the Alliance aims to lower the barrier to entry for local residents, ensuring that new businesses are built on a solid foundation.

“Small businesses are the backbone of rural communities like Loogootee and Shoals,” the Alliance noted in a recent outreach. “Providing the right tools at the start can make the difference between a business that survives its first year and one that thrives for decades.”

Event Details & Registration

Space for the interactive session is limited to ensure personalized attention for all attendees.

  • When: Thursday, March 12, 2026
  • Where: Martin County Alliance Office, Loogootee, IN
  • How to Register: