A place where students, community members and burgeoning entrepreneurs can explore ideas, connect with other like-minded individuals, and receive assistance to move forward with business ideas — that is the purpose of the Entrepreneurship Center at College of the Canyons.

Part of the Small Business Development Center hosted by College of the Canyons, the EC will officially open its doors with a three-day open house event running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 30 through Sept. 1, at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center. The event is free and open to the public.

“We are very excited to welcome community members and students to our open house event,” said SBDC/EC Director Catherine Grooms. “The EC will be a resource for the entire community including underrepresented segments of the population who may already be part of the student body. Visitors to the EC will develop the entrepreneurship skills needed to help make a positive impact on both the local economy and their personal lives.”

During the open house event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the EC’s services and speak with SBDC representatives. The EC will also kick off a logo creation contest, which is open to students and community members.

Throughout the year the EC will also feature entrepreneur speakers, relevant training topics to enhance entrepreneurial skills, and access to the SBDC’s team of professional business consultants.

Open during regular business hours, the EC will provide students and entrepreneurs with an engaging space to work where innovative ideas and a positive mindset will be promoted. The space will also be available for use by student clubs to further enhance their interest and exposure to entrepreneurship.

“Some students are already entrepreneurs or naturally entrepreneurial,” added Grooms. “The EC provides an opportunity to explore the ‘entrepreneur in you.’”

Following the open house event, the EC will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in University Center, Room 277 (enter through Room 272).

Student clubs can reserve the space for a meeting by emailing EC@canyons.edu. Walk-ins are welcome during regular business hours.

The SBDC is the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) largest service program and provides high-quality business and economic development assistance to small businesses owners and entrepreneurs. SBDC locations provide one-on-one professional business consulting at no cost. Training is offered at no cost or low cost to entrepreneurs, and both existing and new businesses.

Serving Northern Los Angeles County, the SBDC hosted by College of the Canyons helps potential and existing small business owners start new businesses, address business challenges, and develop the methods necessary to successfully manage and grow their businesses.

For more information about the Entrepreneurship Center at College of the Canyons please email EC@canyons.edu.