IASourceLink Blog

Don’t let the wrath of 2020 scare you away from that business idea you have always wanted to pursue. 2021 is a new year and a new opportunity for you to be your own boss. The IASourceLink team has reached out to our small business community partners to seek advice for entrepreneurs starting in 2021. Read through these pieces of advice to find inspiration and direction as you take on 2021.

As we dive into 2021, let’s make goal setting a top priority. Let’s revisit those goals that got set aside for 2020 and move them to the top of the list. Whether those goals are personal, professional, or specific to your company. Physically writing them down or compiling a vision board will help these goals become a reality. Vision boards can be used for many scenarios and help anyone better understand where they see their future/company going.

November is here and Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) is right around the corner! This year has been unlike anything we have seen before, especially in the small business and entrepreneurial community. It is time to celebrate all the successes, big and small during this year’s Global Entrepreneurship Week, November 16-21. The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center of North Iowa Area Community College in conjunction with the Iowa Small Business Development Center have prepared several events in spirit of Global Entrepreneurship Week. Check out their wide range of events going on throughout the week!

Calling all inventors, entrepreneurs, start-ups, small business owners, non-profits, and corporate innovative teams! Applications are open for the Fall 2020 Venture School Cohort. If you are looking to test a product, solidify a business model, or expand on an idea, this program provides a supportive and innovative environment to do so.

One of the most crucial components of leadership is the ability to put yourself in someone else's shoes. The ability to understand how others work together. Creating an atmosphere that is inviting of all ideas will show that you care for others. Showing empathy will show others that you are passionate about not only the mission of the company but also your fellow co-workers and the market you serve. You do not need a prestigious degree in order to show empathy. Empathy can be achieved though just simply taking a step back from the situation. Look at the bigger picture and remember the reason why you are with this organization.

NAWBO Iowa (National Association of Women Business Owners) is launching its NEW Business Institute this summer, uniquely designed for women business owners who own an established business that has not yet reached $1 million in revenue, but who fall into what’s considered the ‘missing middle.’

The Iowa Center for Economic Success is a non-profit organization helping to empower Iowans with the potential to exceed as they pursue opportunities for financial success. This is done through educational and networking events and capital and investment opportunities. Although located in Des Moines, most services they provide are available statewide and staff regularly travel to different locations in Iowa. Here’s a snapshot of what the Iowa Center for Economic Success offers!

Small business success is as much about the growth of the owner as the business itself. Clint Dudley, owner of Shade Tree Auto in Grimes, learned this important lesson by investing in his own professional development.

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) is partnering with StartupDubuque to offer an Entrepreneur Certificate, starting this year. The new Entrepreneur Certificate at NICC will teach participants how to build a successful business plan, prepare financial statements, and marketing and selling on social media platforms. The certificate is open to all students, as well as current or future business owners in the Dubuque area, who want to develop, enhance or grow their business.