The Yolo County Office of Education (YCOE) and Woodland Public Library (WPL) invite community members to join a dynamic, hands-on entrepreneurship course designed to empower aspiring business owners in Yolo County.

From Side Hustle to Business is a free, nine-week program tailored to individuals who are ready to turn their ideas into attainable, sustainable businesses.

The course kicks off Monday, April 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Square One in the Woodland Public Library. The program will feature in-person sessions from the Sacramento Valley Small Business Development Center that provide foundational business knowledge, mentorship and networking opportunities.Classes run on Monday evenings through June 2. Participants must be eighteen or older and can register for the course at cityofwoodland.gov/squareone">http://www.cityofwoodland.gov/squareone.

According to a city press release, students who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion, ongoing business coaching and support, and opportunities to vendor and showcase their business at future events.

Entrepreneurship is a means for economic mobility, creative expression and community empowerment. This program’s third cohort will learn the practical skills and knowledge needed to successfully launch and grow a business.

Participants will gain: business fundamentals and startup strategies; branding, marketing, and sales techniques; financial planning, funding options, and budgeting; and legal requirements, permits, and business structures.

Participants will choose a pathway that aligns with their vision:

Creative Services & Products — Art, design, digital services, and handmade goods

Food Products & Services — Mobile food vending, restaurants, catering, and more

Participants can also utilize Square One, a creation lab with various equipment, to make products and marketing materials. The space includes 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, vinyl cutters, an electronics bench, woodworking equipment, and audio-visual equipment.

An Information Night & Drop-In Registration will be held on Monday, March 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Square One (250 First St., in Woodland), offering community members a chance to meet instructors, ask questions, and secure a spot in the course.

The course plans to incorporate guest presenters from the local business community. Local business owners who are interested in serving as guest speakers or providing mentorship can contact Trina Camping at SquareOne@CityofWoodland.gov.

“This initiative is about more than just starting businesses, it’s about creating access, fostering self-sufficiency, and building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that reflects the talent and innovation within our community,” said An Ta, YCOE’s program specialist. “We encourage anyone with an idea or product that they want to turn into a business to attend and participate. By completing the course, you will have the opportunity to turn your dreams of starting a new business into a viable concept.”

By providing accessible, no-cost training and mentorship, YCOE and WPL aim to reduce barriers to business ownership and equip local entrepreneurs with the resources they need to thrive.

For more information or to reserve a spot, visit cityofwoodland.gov/squareone.