Startup class aids new businesses

Wendy SmithFarragut, The Farragut Insider

“Aggressively business friendly.” Farragut hasn’t always been described this way, but that’s how Farragut Business Liaison Trevor Hobbs sees it.

Hobbs is making it his mission to connect with current business owners and attract new businesses to Farragut. As part of this, he is partnering with Knoxville’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce to bring a monthly one-hour class on starting a new business to the Farragut Community Center (239 Jamestowne Blvd.).

Trevor Hobbs

The Business Startup Class will be offered in-person and online from 10-11 a.m. on first Wednesdays through December – Sept. 1, Oct. 6, Nov. 3 and Dec. 1. It will cover different forms of business organization, tax requirements, business licenses and financing options. Participants can register at townoffarragut.org/farragutbusinessclass.

“Starting a business takes a lot of planning before you create a business plan,” he says. “I think a lot of people don’t know where to start.”

The class is designed to prepare future business owners for working with the SBDC. The organization, which is housed with the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce on Market Square, offers a mentoring program for those who are working on a business plan. Many who think they’re ready for mentoring haven’t thought much beyond whether they want a storefront or an Etsy shop, Hobbs says. They’ve thought about what type of business they want, but they haven’t considered basics like whether they should form a sole proprietorship or an LLC (Limited Liability Company).

In conjunction with the class, a separate seminar in October will include specific information for those considering opening a business in Farragut. Hobbs will share information about the town’s sign ordinance, architectural guidelines and permitting process. He hopes to deliver the message that while opening a business in town may require a few extra steps, it’s an investment that pays off.

“Our standards ensure that our built environment looks nice and inviting, which sets you up for success.”

Hobbs is also in the process of publishing a Farragut Business Development Guide. It will include info about the process of setting up a physical space in town, which is different if it’s re-occupancy, renovation or new construction. It reviews the Farragut Municipal Code and the International Building Code, as well as zoning. It also has an extensive FAQ section. The publication will be available online and in printed form in the coming weeks.

He requested that the SBDC present the Business Startup Class in Farragut so that future business owners will get an up-close look at the town and perhaps make the decision to set up shop here.

“We’d really like to attract businesses from the greater Knoxville area. We want all businesses to feel welcome in Farragut.”

For more information, contact Hobbs at 865-966-7057 or thobbs@townoffarragut.org.

Town of Farragut marketing and public relations coordinator Wendy Smith is your reliable Farragut insider.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *