ETP
A page within Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The Entrepreneurial Training Program (ETP) offered by the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UW-La Crosse provides the tools you need for business idea testing and business model improvement.
Through instruction, guest speakers and coaching, the course serves those who are considering starting a business, owners of existing businesses struggling to get a handle on all the details, and those with successful companies that they want to grow.
ETP is a 6-session course that is offered using a hybrid format (both virtually and in person). This program is an easy-to-follow step-by-step process based on the Lean Startup Framework that shows you how to:
- Answer the question – “Will people buy my product or service?”
- Appeal to more customers
- Complete market research and develop a marketing plan
- Focus on structural and management considerations to be better positioned for success
- Quickly develop an investment-ready business plan
- Use time and money in smarter ways
Proven Impact. Graduates of the ETP program are two times more likely to start a business as a result! Since 2015, more than 850 people have participated in this premiere business program. For some examples, see some of our network's ETP success stories.
Introduction to ETP
Join us for a FREE program that gives details about what is covered in ETP. Get the details about the grant and how to apply for it. This program can help you decide if you want to take ETP.
Entrepreneurial Training Program (ETP) - Informational Session
December 19 from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Click Here to register.
January 21 from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Click Here to register.
Entrepreneurial Training Program (ETP) - Winter 2025
Dates: 6 sessions beginning February 18, 2025.
Winter ETP Dates: February 18, 25, March 4, 11, and 18 (all virtual sessions), and April 11, 2025 (in-person or virtual).
Sessions: The first 5 days will be held online. The last day will be in person with a virtual option, followed by optional networking, collaboration, and time to work on ETP workbooks.
Cost: The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation is offering qualified applicants Entrepreneurial Training Grants that cover most of the $1,000 course fee. The grant covers 75% of the tuition, reducing your cost to $250.
Grant recipients must meet attendance requirements and complete business planning material in a timely manner. Participants will have the opportunity for no-cost business consulting with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UW-La Crosse and other supporting organizations.
Sign-up: Space in the Entrepreneurial Training Program is limited and will be filled on a first-come/first-served basis.
Click Here to register.
Next, the grant application process will be completed for consideration. An SBDC representative will work with you to complete the grant paperwork.
If you need any assistance in completing the application or have any questions about the Entrepreneurial Training Program, please feel free to call the SBDC at UW-La Crosse at 608.785.8783.
Please note: you will receive an invoice for the remaining tuition assistance if you do not complete your plan materials by the required deadline.
Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Logo
The Wisconsin SBDC Network is a proud part of the Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship in the Universities of Wisconsin. The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the SBDC office at 608.785.8782 or sbdc@uwlax.edu.
Universities of Wisconsin
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) logo.