News

Iowa Valley Business and Community Solutions (BCS) and Iowa Workforce Development are partnering to present a vital and timely series of lunch and learn events designed to equip small business owners in the Marshalltown area with the knowledge and resources needed for effective succession planning. Under the banner of “Navigating Tomorrow: Your Future-Ready Succession Plan,” this complimentary four-part series will provide actionable insights and practical tools to help entrepreneurs develop a blueprint for the future of their businesses.

Succession planning, often perceived as a concern only for large corporations, is equally critical for the longevity and stability of small, main-street businesses. Whether an owner is considering retirement, exploring growth opportunities, or simply wanting to ensure the business’s continued success, a well-thought-out succession plan provides a roadmap for a smooth and prosperous transition.

“Small business owners pour their hearts and souls into building their enterprises,” says Jacque Goodman, Vice President of Business and Community Solutions. “This series is designed to empower them to proactively plan for the future, ensuring their hard work continues to benefit the community for years to come. We’re thrilled to partner with Iowa Works to offer this valuable resource.”

The “Navigating Tomorrow” series will feature expert speakers and provide opportunities for learning and engagement. The schedule for the complimentary lunch and learn sessions is as follows:

• June 26: The Voice of Experience – A Panel Discussion (11:30 am – 1:00 pm)
  • Hear firsthand from experienced business owners and professionals who have successfully navigated the succession planning process. Gain valuable insights and practical advice from those who have been there.
• August 28: Building Your Toolkit: Resources for Succession Planning (11:30 am – 1:00 pm)
  • This session will focus on providing attendees with a tangible toolkit of resources, templates, and guidance to begin or refine their own succession plans. Learn about key considerations and practical steps you can take immediately.
• October 23: Succession Planning for Non-Profits (11:30 am – 1:00 pm)
  • This specialized session will address the unique challenges and opportunities of succession planning within the non-profit sector, ensuring the continued impact of these vital community organizations.
• January 22: Cultivating the Next Generation: Succession Planning for the Family Farm (11:30 am – 1:00 pm)
  • This session will be tailored to the specific needs of farm families, exploring strategies for establishing a successful generational farm transition.

All sessions will be held at the Iowa Valley Conference Center, Dejardin Hall, located at 3702 S. Center Street in Marshalltown, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch or enjoy a complimentary lunch.

“We recognize that time is valuable for small business owners,” adds Michelle Roseburrough, Business Engagement Consultant at Iowa Workforce Development. “By offering these sessions over the lunch hour and making them free to attend, we hope to make this crucial information accessible and convenient for everyone.”

Small business owners in the Marshalltown area are strongly encouraged to attend this informative and empowering series. Take the first step towards securing the future of your business by participating in “Navigating Tomorrow: Your Future-Ready Succession Plan.”

Registration information and further details for each session will be announced in the coming weeks. Please stay tuned to the Iowa Valley BCS website and Iowa Workforce Development website for updates.