FRANCHISE FAIR

When: Saturday September 11th 2010
Time: 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Where: Burlington Mall

Business ownership and entrepreneurship is expected to lead the nation in growth in the next few year; small businesses are the fuel that keeps the economy running!

we are eager to inform you of this tremendous opportunity we have for you and the small business community you support. Simon Property Group has 19 malls located throughout New England and we are hosting a Franchise Fair at the Burlington Mall on Saturday, September 11, 2010.

The event is FREE and it will have a full range of support services in the way of Small Business Administration, SCORE, and the Small Business Development Centers, as well as major National Franchisors ans Simon management and leasing personnel, on hand to meet with individuals who are interested in opening their own business - big or small.

An Entrepreneurial State of Mind

Coming up with a great idea and devising and implementing a strong business plan are extremely important for aspiring entrepreneurs, but sometimes WHERE you locate your business can mean the difference between success and failure. Us News and World Report examined two studies that looked at "a state's ability to promote entrepreneurship:" the New State Economy Index from the Kauffman Foundation and Innovation Foundation, and the Small Business Survival Index from the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council. It determined that the following states are the best for aspiring entrepreneurs:

• Washington. Why?: Strong focus on energy efficiency and use of alternative energy. Productive manufacturing sector. No state taxes or income on capital gains for residents.

• Virginia. Why?: Highly educated and technologically sophisticated workforce. Low taxes.

• Colorado. Why?: Fast-growing population. Third most-educated workforce in the United States. Lower-than-average taxes.

• Texas. Why?: Globally-focused manufacturing sector. Low taxes.

• Nevada. Why?: No income or capital-gains tax for corporations or individuals. Has one of the most technologically sophisticated healthcare sectors.

Upcoming Meetings

• WIB Planning Evaluation Committee Meeting: Wednesday September 8th 1:30pm
• WIB Executive Committee Meeting: Thursday September 9th 8:00am WIB Office
• YC Executive Committee Meeting: Thursday September 9th 9:00am WIB Office
• Youth Council Meeting: Tuesday September 21st 12:00pm Career Opportunities
• WIB Board of Directors Meeting: Tuesday September 28th 8:00am Career Opportunities