The Small Business Development Center at College of the Canyons has joined forces with California Lutheran University, the firm Homeier & Law, P.C., and the Maverick Angels investment network to establish a new program to bring a wide range of services and resources to small business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the San Fernando, East Ventura and Santa Clarita Valleys.

Dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and small businesses with high growth potential succeed and grow, the goal of the new program — called the Center for Entrepreneurship and Growth — is to bring together the collective resources and expertise of the four partnering organizations to provide targeted training, one-on-one coaching and consulting and other business resources to help local entrepreneurs thrive in today’s marketplace.

The Center’s first initiative will be the introduction of its ‘Institute’ program, which will launch in January 2013. This program will consist of a six-week, 12-session training and coaching program delivered by business experts from each of the founding organizations and will be held on the CLU satellite campus located in Woodland Hills.

“We are very pleased to help found this unique program,” said SBDC Executive Director Steve Tannehill. “Our role in helping to develop the Center and its Institute program represents the next logical phase of expanded services available to SBDC clients.

“For the first time, small business owners and entrepreneurs across the region will have access to a comprehensive, six-week training and consulting program delivered by four top tier organizations, and geared to take them to the next level of growth and success,” added Tannehill.

The Center anticipates choosing up to 20 applicants to participate in the first Institute cohort, which is scheduled to begin in early January.

Participants will be chosen through a competitive selection process, with all applicants asked to complete an on-line application and commit to completing the entire six-week program.

For more information visit www.callutheran.edu/management/centers/.

About the SBDC hosted by College of the Canyons

The SBDC hosted by College of the Canyons was launched in January 2006. SBDC business advisors assist prospective and existing small business owners start, grow or expand their businesses by providing workshops, one-on-one consulting, trainings and other resources to the business community.