Boots to Business class educates entrepreneurs Published Aug. 31, 2015 By Senior Airman Desiree Economides 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Ever thought about owning your own business or being your own boss? Entrepreneurs and individuals interested in learning to do just that have the opportunity to do so for free through the Airman & Family Readiness Center here. The U.S. Small Business Administration and Department of Defense have teamed up to offer "Boots to Business," an exploratory class which provides a spectrum of information about owning and operating a business. According to Eric Giltner, SBA senior area manager, the training and experiences service members receive in active duty are actually a precursor for success in owning and operating a business. Research shows that while veterans represent six percent of the population, they own 13 percent of businesses. Although the class is required for service members as part of the DoD's Transition Assistance program, the class is available for anyone who has access to the base. "We encourage anyone interested to sign-up and attend; even if you already have a small business," said Johnson. "Lots of people have small in-home businesses these days and may be looking to expand or make it a full-time career. There are so many resources available to increase their chances of success." The two-day course provides insight as to the opportunities that are available specifically for military members, but also provides information as to completing market research and developing a business plan. "Boots to business provided a lot of valuable information and key aspects concerning small business types, startup considerations and strategies," said Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Melani, 69th Maintenance Squadron ground systems expediter and class participant. "Anyone with the slightest bit of interest in starting their own business should go as soon as they can." Although the class teaches the basics the most fundamental knowledge can be summed up in a few words. "Starting a business is a serious step for anyone and should not be taken lightly. Research has shown that those who write a business plan are more likely to succeed than those who don't," said Giltner. To learn more about the program, visit www.sba.gov/content/about-operation-boots-business-service-startup. "One never knows when the opportunity to own a business will happen," Giltner said. "Many of the small business owners I have counseled over the years have wished they were more prepared for all of the challenges of owning a business before they started." The next Boots to Business class is scheduled for Oct. 27 - 28, 2015, at the A&FRC. To sign up, call 747-3398.