The Business of Tourism An Entrepreneur and Small Business Workshop

Supporting Virginia’s fastest growing industry May 10, 2011 – Virginia Intermont College

Agenda

8 a.m. Registration (continental breakfast provided by VI College)

8:30 a.m. Welcome, Local Tourism Update, and Local Tourism Business Opportunities – Matt Bolas, Bristol Convention and Visitors Bureau; Leah Ross, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion

Pick Bristol, BCMA Cultural Heritage Center, Live Music, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion

8:45 a.m. City of Bristol, VA Community Development, Andrew Trivette

9:00 a.m. Downtown Bristol Overview and Resources – Christina Blevins, Believe in Bristol / Main Street Program

9:10 a.m. Regional/State Tourism Development Update– Randall Rose, Virginia Tourism Corporation (Crooked Road, Round the Mountain, Heartwood)

9:25 a.m. Why An Educated Workforce is Important? – Dr. Clorisa Phillips, Virginia Intermont College

9:45 a.m. Resources for Starting and Growing Your Business – Sandy Ratliff, Virginia Department of Business Assistance

9:55 a.m. Business Planning Assistance – Tom Fleckenstein, Virginia Small Business Development Center

10:05 a.m. Learn from Successful Entrepreneurs (Retail and Restaurant) Julie Marion – Java J’s Con Sauls – Sessions 27 Ben Zandi – Burger Bar, Troutdale, Troutdale Kitchens

10:35 a.m. Q & A with 3 speakers

10:50 a.m. Break (Beverages and cookies provided by VI College)

11:00 a.m. Financing Your Business – Scott Peak, Wachovia Bank & Becky Nave, People Inc./Ninth District Development Financing, Inc.

11:15 a.m. Learn from Successful Entrepreneurs (Arts, Retail, Living) Lori Cogan – Tombras Agency and Entrepreneur Karen Hester – Cranberry Lane and Lofts Bethany Wilson – Blowfish Emporium

11:45 p.m. Questions & Answers with 3 speakers above

12:00 p.m. Lunch – VI College Dining Hall (Compliments of VI College)

1:00 p.m. Marketing Your Business – Kitty Barker, Virginia Tourism

1:15 p.m. Virginia Intermont College Cultural Heritage Tourism Program

1:30 p.m. Networking with Vendors