Second annual Entrepreneur Day on tap at EOU

A group of Eastern Oregon legislators have teamed up to promote the second annual Entrepreneur Day at Eastern Oregon University April 24.

The event will be held at EOU’s Badgley Hall, One University Blvd, in La Grande. It runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes a special awards ceremony luncheon.

The day is designed to help existing small business owners and those who want to start a new business venture, said state Rep. Greg Smith, R-Heppner.

He said more than 20 professional development classes are on the schedule, including government contracting, advertising and marketing, financing, hiring, real estate, manufacturing, bookkeeping, international business, energy efficiency and much more.

Also on tap is a small business fair showcasing local professionals in over 50 booths, and a business plan competition that allows people to submit a business plan for technical review by local lenders and others.

Cash awards will be presented to first, second and third place. In addition, an award will be given for Most Innovative Idea. Business plan entries are due by April 17 at the EOU Small Business Development Center, 1607 Gekeler Lane. For more information on contest entry contact the SBDC at 962-1532 or or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

In addition to the Small Business Development Center, the event is sponsored by Students in Free Enterprise. Private-sector sponsors include Community Bank, Old West Federal Credit Union, the John Logan Fund, Union Wallowa Baker Federal Credit Union, Bank of Eastern Oregon and Wildhorse Foundation.

State legislators who helped organize the event include Sen. Dave Nelson, R-Pendleton, Rep. Bob Jenson, R-Pendleton, and Smith, who is also SBDC executive director.

“In rural Oregon it’s especially important for entrepreneurs to take advantage of an opportunity like this because it offers a lot of great information all in one location,” said Jenson.

Added Nelson, “We have many excellent programs in our area available to help small business folks. Anyone interested in opening a new company or improving their skills should definitely plan to attend this event.”

Admission is free.