In the ever-changing, fast pace of business operations, small business owners may become overwhelmed with keeping the business afloat; often neglecting taking care of themselves.
Two Rivers CDC is partnering with multiple organizations and agencies to add a new dimension to business operations. Beginning in September, Two Rivers will be including mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) training into our business classes. Mindfulness is the awareness of your surroundings.
The stress reduction techniques will include culturally appropriate practices and ceremonies. The initial program will occur in North Bend, WA. Two Rivers shares a property line with Boxley Creek Park; one of the King County family of parks. Two Rivers has entered a Memorandum of Understanding with king County Parks for inclusion of the park as part of the new program.
The pilot program consists of 4 sessions. Other sessions may follow based upon outcomes. Each class will contain elements of mindfulness. Sample agenda (subject to changes)
Day 1: Saturday, Sept 30, 2023 Introduction to Mindfulness and SBA Programs overview
0900 Opening ceremony
0930 Introduction to Mindfulness
Definition, purpose, demonstrations, practice
(Mindful eating, walking, meditation, yoga)
1100 Small Business Administration (SBA) and other federal programs
Types, eligibility, benefits, updates on changes
(Veteran Owned, 8a, HUB Zone, Buy Indian, Indian Incentive)
1200 Mindfulness lunch activities
Day 2: Saturday, Oct 14, 2023 Government Contracting and Marketing
0900 Opening ceremony
0930 Certifications
Requirements, challenges, timelines
1100 Marketing
Materials, cold calls, opportunity search, social media, networking
1200 Mindfulness lunch activities
Day 3: Saturday, Oct 28, 2023 Management: Financial and Strategic Planning
0900 Opening Ceremony
0930 Financials
Cash flow analysis, G&A calculations, Overhead
1045 Capacity Building
Partnering, Joint Venturers, vetting, Mentor-Protégé
1200 Mindfulness lunch activities
Day 4: Saturday, Nov 4, 2023 Certifications and One on One with Primes
0900 Opening Ceremony
0930 Strategic Management
Hiring, internal training, succession, growth
1045 Working with primes
Meet the primes one-on-one
1200 Mindfulness lunch activities.
Throughout the program, the instructor will have the option of taking breaks to reinforce mindfulness activities or to practice “Taking Five”.
The initial program is for Native American veteran business owners; up to 12 participants. Other Native business owners may enroll on a space-available basis. We strongly encourage enrollment for the entire series. Confirmations will be provided no less than one week prior to each class.
Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the US Small Business Administration