Although it has only been 2 months since I first set through the Mountain BizWorks doors, I have already made many important steps to help me realize my career as a fashion designer. I can now say I dedicate my full time working hours to design, rather than the hourly-wage job I'd maintained for the last four years. Mountain BizWorks really helped me realize that not all risks you take are bad decisions.

Melissa "Moe" Donnelly - Sew Moe Designs

Focus International
Category: Business Services - Consulting
Margo-Aminah Harden
P.O. Box 113
Columbus, NC 28722
Phone: (828)859-9052
Fax:
Email: aharden_nc@yahoo.com
Website: http://

Public health consulting for the empowerment of communities in defining powerful outcomes. Professional services include program development, curriculum writing, training, facilitating, health education and promotion.

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Steven Lee Consulting
Category: Computer - Training/Technical Support
Steven Lee
P.O. Box 1307
Asheville, NC 28802
Phone: (828)254-5707
Fax:
Email: steven@stevenleeconsulting.com
Website: http://www.stevenleeconsulting.com

Network and hardware installation and upgrades. Training and support for operating systems and programs.

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Visit our online directory for a complete listing of alumni-owned and operated businesses!

:: Office Manager position available click for more information

:: '08 Women's Business Conference - May 29 click here for more information

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WHO ARE WE?

For two decades, Mountain BizWorks has provided training, coaching, and lending services to start-up and existing businesses in the twelve western-most counties of North Carolina. We focus on access for all types of entrepreneurs including low-income individuals and minorities who sometimes face barriers to business ownership. Mountain BizWorks' programs and services help entrepreneurs to demystify and overcome the difficulties associated with starting or expanding a business. ::Learn More::

In 2007, Mountain BizWorks was able to provide its services to over 740 entrepreneurs, of which 71% were low-income, 64% were women, and 22% were racial or ethnic minorities. Those individuals created 135 businesses and expanded 230 businesses. In turn, those businesses created 520 jobs and sustained 372 jobs. We also made 67 loans totaling almost $900,000 and leveraging $1.3 Million.

WHAT DO WE DO?

~ We guide entrepreneurs through the process of creating or enhancing their business plans. ::Learn More::

~ Our clients can receive one-on-one business coaching to help them overcome all the obstacles of creating or expanding thier businesses. ::Learn More::

~ We can loan up to $50,000 to entrepreneurs who need captial to open or expand their businesses. ::Learn More::

HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT OUR WORK?

We depend on philanthropy to help us create the American Dream for our clients. With your contribution, Western North Carolina's entrepreneurs will become successful business owners. ::Learn More::

~ Donate money now by going to JustGive.org, a non-profit organization that connects people with the charities and causes they care about.

~ Contact Stephen Jones, our Development Director, to learn how your donation will make a difference.

~ With a minimum $1,000 Investment Note, you can earn up to 3% interest while helping to capitalize small business businesses in your community. ::Learn More::

Alumni Spotlights

Mountain BizWorks prides itself on making connections and promoting the power of networking. The licensed acupuncturists at Asheville Community Acupuncture are shining examples of the benefit. Jennifer Burnett certified in Foundations in 2005, Cat Finks in 2006, and Rachel Davis completed the course just last month. Three solid business plans have been joined to create a thriving business in West Asheville.
The mission of Asheville Community Acupuncture is to offer sliding scale fees as a service to the community because acupuncture treatment (and health care in general!) is too expensive for most people to afford. Asheville Community Acupuncture aims to change that. The clinic offers affordable prices in order to make acupuncture accessible to you and your family because acupuncture works best when it is done frequently and regularly.