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Accelerator online speeds up business development

By Stephanie Rodriguez

Valley entrepreneurs from rural parts of Fresno and Clovis can now turn to Fresno State for expertise on starting up their own business. The University Business Center has established AcceleratorOnline, a Web-based entrepreneurial training program that incorporates coursework developed by faculty from the Craig School of Business.

AcceleratorOnline guides participants in developing a business plan with hands-on training and custom-designed virtual courses. Twenty students completed the first module in the program in September.

Emil Milevoj, business development specialist, said applicants are selected based on the viability of their business ideas. Those chosen take custom-designed virtual courses that are available on CD-ROM and through Fresno State's e-learning software platform, Blackboard. Participants meet with professors twice a month for progress assessment and questions students may have about their business idea or about the courses.

In addition, faculty from the Craig School of Business and community business leaders provide advice and expertise to the participants on such topics as business loans, obtaining business space and hiring.

"Every business has different needs so it [the assistance offered] really depends on the business," said Milevoj "We try to get the information to them. If we don't have the answer we try to find someone who does."

Participants have access to business contacts within the community, guidance in obtaining a small business loan and setting up their legal structure. AcceleratorOnline also assists participants in setting up their business Web site on AcceleratorOnline's Web site.

Shari Green, an AcceleratorOnline participant, said the program has been helpful.

"The literature, reference material and assignments really helped me gain a better understanding of how to write a successful business plan and more importantly implement it," said Green.

AcceleratorOnline is funded by grants from the Technology Opportunities Program, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, and the California Technology, Trade, and Commerce Agency, Division of Science, Technology and Innovation.

In addition, said Milevoj, "We are looking to partner up with businesses that can offer contributions of time, materials and expertise."

Milevoj said AcceleratorOnline is open to anyone who has a viable business plan, from "bricks and mortar" to e-business ideas. Several business ideas have included manufacturing companies, educational software and nonprofit organizations.

A trend that Milevoj has noticed is outsourcing. With many companies downsizing their staff, outsourcing provides organizations support at a less expensive rate.

"Students [in the program] from large corporations have come up with businesses that provide services to corporations," says Milevoj.

AcceleratorOnline is now accepting applications for the business plan development and e-business modules. The deadline is Oct.15.

For more information call ext. 8-2352 or visit the Web site at www.acceleratoronline.com.

Stephanie Rodriguez is a University Relations intern.

Back to University Journal, 10/8/01 Issue