A small business development course from the Kosciusko Economic Development Commission yielded 11 graduates.
In a ceremony Thursday night at McClain Hall on the campus of Grace College, most of the graduates spoke about what they learned and what their businesses will be.
George Robertson, executive director of KEDCo, has taught classes like these for more than 20 years.
“I’m very proud of this group,” said Robertson.
Sandra Anders began the presentations. Anders and her husband have started a real estate investment company.
While taking the class, she was able to add a second property to her portfolio.
Anders said she is now looking for investors to help grow the company.
“It’s something we can look forward to for the rest of our lives and leave a legacy for our children,” said Anders.
Adam Custer pitched his business, AC Custom Graphics, to the crowd of graduates and business people.
Custer said his business focuses on signs, banners, lighted signs, monuments, graphics and t-shirts.
Peter Kraft spoke of his business venture, Kraft Consulting International LLC.
Kraft said that with his experience in the orthopedics industry and familiarity with the FDA he can help businesses when dealing with FDA investigations. He can also train and deal with governing agencies.
JoEllen Eisenhour presented her Preferred Speakers & Training.
Eisenhour offers to come to workshops and help employees deliver public speaking presentations.
She also helps employees organize and deliver their presentations.
Chris Mahan and his wife Lisa have started the Mahan 9 group.
“It helps you as a person and business succeed,” said Chris Mahan.
Mahan offered help with public speaking, business plans and helping businesses with their social media.
Mahan also offered to write ad copy and customer appreciation letters.
Daniel Tarr’s business is opening Master Comps. He said his hope is to offer computer support and training to customers with a speciality in senior citizens.
Clay Brooks with South Shore Golf Club has developed a full-service business plan to draw members to his golf course.
He laid out what South Shore has to offer including an 18-hole golf course, full-service bar and 3-season outdoor patio.
The golf course is in the middle of its 2012 membership campaign.
Liza Schuh presented her line of Liza’s Gluten Free Foods. As someone who suffers from Crohn's Disease, Schuh said it was important for her and her family to have gluten-free options.
Schuh said she hopes to sell her line of products to local businesses so other people with gluten-free lifestyles would have more options.
The next small business course is scheduled for the spring.
