Free 10-week workshop at CLTCC

CLTCCAlexandria, La. – There’s more than just cool weather on the way for CENLA this fall. The Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC), together with the Central Louisiana Economic Development Alliance (CLEDA) is excited to launch a new, free workshop across six of CLTCC’s campuses.

Beginning this September, Lean Launchpad – a 10-session business workshop based on a “flipped-classroom” method – will teach students how to build actual companies around their ideas. The classes are free and open to anyone.

“Lean Launchpad is a radically different approach to starting a new business,” said Gary Perkins, Executive Director of BAS. “We’re looking for risk-takers who are ready to jump in and explore their innovative ideas. In business, it’s the adventurous, fearless individuals who can adapt quickly to change that succeed.”

Created by Stanford University lecturer Steve Blank, Lean Launchpad expands the traditional take on entrepreneurship. During the program, students will discover the key tools to build a thriving startup as their initial business idea changes and evolves in 10 weeks flat. Additionally, the program’s “flipped classroom” model provides non-traditional learning through engaging videos and guided discussion. The course is made possible by partial funding from the Rapides Foundation.

“Small business and entrepreneurs are the backbone of our growing economy and critically important to CENLA,” said Dr. Rodney Ellis, CLTCC Chancellor. “We are very excited because this partnership provides the opportunity for CLTCC students to get the training and support they need to turn their business or product ideas into a reality, to foster local enterprise and stimulate economic growth.”

CLASS REGISTRATION

Lean Launchpad classes will be held on Thursdays beginning September 12, from 5:30pm – 8:30pm at CLTCC campuses in Alexandria, Cottonport, Ferriday, Leesville (Lamar Salter), Oakdale or Winnfield (Huey P. Long). To register and select a campus location, visit www.whybas.com/event. The deadline to apply is Monday, September 9. Space for the program is limited.  For more information, please call (318) 441-3403.

About the Business Acceleration System

The Business Acceleration System (BAS) is dedicated to speeding the development of Central Louisiana entrepreneurs by helping them acquire and apply the knowledge they need to grow their companies. BAS uses a multi-faceted approach that includes coaching, expert technical assistance, classroom learning, and web-based instruction to deliver the right content at the right time. To find out more, visit www.whybas.com

CLEDAAbout the Central Louisiana Economic Development Alliance

The Central Louisiana Economic Development Alliance (CLEDA) is an organization that consists of the economic development entities from the parishes of Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Concordia, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon and Winn. CLEDA’s mission is to help people prosper in vibrant, thriving communities. To learn more, visit www.centrallouisiana.org

CLTCC

Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC) is a two-year public technical community college offering associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas that prepare individuals for high demand occupations. The college continuously monitors emerging trends by maintaining proactive business advisory committees and delivering on-time industry based certifications and high quality customized training for employers. CLTCC pursues responsive, innovative educational and business partnership strategies, in an environment that promotes life-long learning, and produces a knowledgeable and skilled workforce as well as confident citizens who grow viable businesses for the future. Using innovative educational strategies the college creates a skilled workforce and prepares individuals for advanced educational opportunities. For more information, visit http://region6.ltc.edu/