Covington business owners are invited to participate in a pair of workshops next month organized by the city, according to Economic Development Manager Shalini Bansal.

“We have planned to events for potential and existing business owners,” Bansal said. “The counselor, Carole Butkus, is the Director of the Washington Business Center at Community Capital Development. She has owned her own small businesses, worked in small businesses, and provided consulting/technical assistance and training to small businesses for a number of years.”

Butkus also earned a master’s of business administration from Washington State University.

Both workshops are scheduled for Sept. 10.

At 8 a.m., Butkus will lead “Work For Yourself,” which will provide participants basic tools on how to start a business as well as provide information on resources available through the U.S. Small Business Administration, what steps need to be taken to start a business, information about writing a business plan, what lenders need to know when reviewing business loan applications, small business assistance from the city of Covington on licensing, zoning, permits, building codes and much more.

The second workshop, “Business Technical Assistance,” will be an opportunity for business owners to get one-on-one consultation from Butkus. There are four one-hour appointments available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Assistance will cover areas ranging from analyzing a new business idea, marketing plan development, financial and operational management challenges and more.

To register send e-mail to classes@seattleccd.com; or call (206) 324-4330 x 100.

For more information call Shalini Bansal, Covington’s Economic Development Manager at 253-638-1110, extension 3278.