City classes aim to skill up small businesses

According to the AtoZdatabases, approximately 93 percent of all businesses in Austin have fewer than 100 employees. That’s why since 2009 the city’s Small Business Program, in partnership with the University of Texas Center at Austin for Professional Education, has been hosting classes to help local small business owners and their employees hone their business skills. Topics covered in these classes include essential skill sets for successful businesses, such as marketing, accounting, and human resource basics. Participants receive Business Skills Certification after completing six classes, and are honored during a City Council meeting and reception at City Hall – the next one is in February. Over 150 graduates have received a Business Skills Certification. For a current schedule and class descriptions, head over to www.SmallBizAustin.org.