Are you trying to overcome the effects of the pandemic on your business, but need help on the basics of business and computer technologies? The City of Mesa in partnership with the Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Mesa Community College, is hosting two FREE Mesa CARES Business/Computer Technology Training Lab Series for Mesa's businesses affected by COVID-19. Each series includes two-hour sessions each week for five weeks and includes a free laptop with software subscriptions for one year for a limited number of students.
Introduction of Technology for Business (in-person lab sessions) - Begins Sept. 16 - Limited to nine attendees.
This series will be an overview of computer technology, concepts, terminology and the role of computers in small business. The series will discuss basic computer components and software for business, and the use of file manager to organize computer data and g-mail for electronic mail. Attendees will also receive an understanding of social media and small business security issues. The first nine students to apply will receive free laptops and software for a year upon completion of the Introduction Series.
Intermediate Technology for Business (webinar) - Begins Oct. 1 - Limited to 20 attendees.
This series will teach the use of Microsoft Word, Excel and Excel for Accounting in small business. Attendees will receive instruction regarding creating flyers, spreadsheets and other documents for use in business operations, and will discuss the role of social media and ecommerce in today's business environment. The first 11 students to apply will receive free laptops and software for a year upon completion of the Intermediate Series.
The two Business/Computer Technology Training Series are part of the Mesa CARES Small Business Technical Assistance Program, which is designed to provide free training, one-on-one business coaching and technical assistance services to eligible, Mesa-based businesses that were impacted by the required business closures or limited services mandated by statewide Executive Orders.
"This partnership with the Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Mesa Community College is providing valuable resources and training to Mesa businesses," Mesa Mayor John Giles said. "Basic business skills and practical experience with computer technologies are key to the success of any business."
"The opportunity for small business owners to receive training and laptops with business software is one of the biggest impact opportunities of the Mesa Cares Technical Assistance Program." Mesa Chamber of Commerce CEO Sally Harrison said. "This is a long-lasting tool that will be an ongoing gift for these businesses."
Each series will be facilitated by business training experts. Businesses can apply online at www.MesaAz.Gov/CARESBizTechAssist. Anyone needing help completing the application may contact the Mesa CARES Call Center at 480-644-CARE (2273). The call center is open Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The Mesa CARES Small Business Technical Assistance Program is part of the Mesa CARES Initiative that supports individuals, families, and businesses impacted by COVID-19. Funding comes from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Media Contact: Kim Lofgreen
Office of Economic Development
480-644-3962
Kim.lofgreen@mesaaz.gov