FastTrac Program Offers ‘Pie In the Sky’ Hope For Ansonia Woman

Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) FastTrac ™ Program Offers ‘Pie In the Sky’ Hope For Ansonia Woman

Products such as “Hit By A Truck” and “Who Loves Ya?” register high on the clever scale, but how do they fare as successful products? Linda Drost, founder of Daily Aromatherapy, used the skills gained from the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) to gauge her progress.

Like many businesses, Daily Aromatherapy was born out of passion. A longtime believer in alternate remedies, Linda became fascinated with essential oils and their therapeutic effects and soon began creating her own blends. At the urging of friends and family, she developed a small line of products for sale through a local retailer in New London, CT and is  in the process of launching her web site www.dailyaromatherapy.com.

Linda’s professional background in product development for the fashion industry was an asset in  creating her brand, yet Daily Aromatherapy did not truly transition from hobby to business until Linda enrolled in the WBDC’s 9-week FastTrac New Venture™ class. “When I learned what an amazing entrepreneurial education was available through the WBDC, I knew I’d be crazy to miss this professional opportunity.” The FastTrac New Venture™ experience was an A-to-Z education in entrepreneurship. From outstanding volunteer instructors and guest speakers to the final class making “elevator pitches,” Linda’s knowledge grew exponentially.

 “My first session of FastTrac New Venture™ taught me the essentials: setting up a three-year plan, creating an opening balance sheet, and using industry codes for market research. I began to discern between ‘pie in the sky’ hopes and truly saleable products. The FastTrac New Venture™ course helped me ground my ideas into a sustainable plan of action.” Without the WBDC, Linda’s business would not have the structure and depth needed to seek out investors. “As a result of FastTrac New Venture™, I’ve done the research and have a thorough understanding of my industry so that I’m prepared to meet with potential investors and launch my business the right way.”

Although Linda still holds a “day job” with the government, she pursues her business concept in every spare minute, with long term plans to sell on a larger scale. “I don’t want to put my foot on the gas until everything is perfect.”

The FastTrac® New Venture™ Business Planning Class for Start Ups is designed for the aspiring business owner, FastTrac^® New Venture™ focuses on matching participants’ business development needs to the business plan they develop to make their vision a reality.  Program includes nine three-hour classes, plus three additional counseling sessions after completion of course work.

WBDC is now accepting applications for enrollment in the next session taking place on February 22, 29, March 7, 14, 21, 28, April 4, 11, 18.   Counseling Sessions: May 2, 9, 16 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM at The Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce in Shelton and February 28, March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3, 10, 17, 24. Counseling Sessions: May 8, 15, 22 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM at The Norwalk Community College, Norwalk.

 Eligibility Requirements: Must have a defined business concept.  Registration and material fee upon acceptance into the program: $250.  Material fee discounts available via scholarships to those who qualify based on income guidelines.  Application deadline is Friday, February 17.  Contact Aiesha Mclean for an application at 203.353.1750 or AMclean@ctwbdc.org.

The Women’s Business Development Council is the Leader of Entrepreneurial and Financial Training for Women in Connecticut and is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping women become economically self-sufficient. It has been educating, motivating and empowering women through entrepreneurship and expanded career opportunities for almost 15 years.

www.ctwbdc.org