E-Loft Gets Stimulus Money

Another piece of the federal stimulus pie is on its way to the U.P.

And it may be a way to help start new businesses.

The E-Loft is hosting the FastTrac training course.

It helps would-be entrepreneurs develop plans for their new ventures.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is adding a new wrinkle that’ll make the course a lot more affordable.

FastTrac normally costs $700 per person.

But Dar Shepherd of the E-Loft says thanks to MEDC financial support, it’ll cost just $100 this one time only.

The stimulus discount is spurring a lot of interest.

The E-Loft will have to cap registration by Thursday.

The course involves hands-on coaching and working in small groups with community businesspeople.

Shepherd says the stories of the local entrepreneurs who help teach the course may be the most valuable thing — she says that’s where the real learning comes in.

The FastTrac training starts on the 21st and runs every Wednesday night for 10 weeks.

If you’re interested, you can contact the E-Loft in Marquette.

The course may also come to Houghton this fall.