Plugging In: Training

Each issue, WILMA includes a Plugging In directory to help you connect locally. This time, we’re focusing on training programs in the area. Keep an eye out for future lists about tech groups and interest meetups. Let us know about your organization by emailing editor@wilmingtonbiz.com.

WILMA’S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

A part of WILMA’s Women to Watch Leadership Initiative, the institute is a nine-month program. Each year, a class of forty-eight women is selected to participate through an application and interview process. During their time, they meet with leaders for skills training, interact with executives in the community, and serve as peer mentors for each other. This year’s program is underway, but applications for next year’s class open in December. Info: wilmamag.com/women-to-watch

SMALL BUSINESS CENTERS

Both Cape Fear Community College and Brunswick Community College offer free training for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Regular workshop topics include: Starting Your Own Business, Writing a Business Plan, Financing a Small Business, Advertising and Marketing Your Business, and Bookkeeping, with other topics scheduled in.

Info: cfcc.edu/small-business-center and brunswickcc.edu

LEADERSHIP WILMINGTON

The Wilmington Chamber of Commerce hosts an annual program of selected group members. “Through hands-on community immersion and direct interaction with our community’s current leaders, Leadership Wilmington serves to cultivate leaders and advance the Wilmington region’s economy,” chamber officials describe. “Participants will get an up-close look at some of our region’s most challenging issues and opportunities and build lifelong relationships with other aspiring leaders. Class members will also work together to organize Work on Wilmington, the community’s largest one-day volunteer service day.” The application for the next group is May 31.

Info: wilmingtonchamber.org/leadership-wilmington

LEADERSHIP BRUNSWICK COUNTY

Brunswick Community College and the Southport-Oak Island Area, North Brunswick, and Brunswick County chambers of commerce also hold a group leadership program. It aims “to develop corps of informed, committed and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic leadership for Brunswick County. Beginning each September for nine months, program participants travel throughout the county visiting various locations and interacting with existing leaders in social, political, economic, cultural and educations systems,” the groups say.

For application info, go to brunswickcountychamber.org.

YWCA STRIVE 

The YWCA Lower Cape Fear offers hands-on workforce development and training. “Through mentorship, education and practical support, our program paves the way for women to redefine possibilities and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities,” according to the group.

Info: ywca-lowercapefear.org/strive

Want more WILMA? Click here to sign up for our WILMA newsletters and announcements.