Attendees at a recent Riverbank Chamber of Commerce gathering got some lunch – and useful information – at the event. Chamber officials presented a workshop downtown this past week, aimed at teaching its members the importance of having and following a business plan.

The program was organized by the Chamber as a lunch-and-learn, on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at the local Pizza Plus. It was presented by Maria Hernandez, Small Business Services Manager of Stanislaus Equity Partners.

The program started with a description of what a business plan is and why to use one. Hernandez described a couple of different formats used and also noted that a plan can be used to launch a new business, record ideas for the business, how to apply for financing, or possibly acquire an existing business or franchise.

Her description summarized what to include, and possible best practices.

After the presentation was over, Hernandez passed out information for the business owners present who might want to sign up for a free six-week class to be held in winter/spring of 2025. It is a free business entrepreneurship class.

Sessions are to include Introduction to Business Plan, Business Structure, Accounting/Bookkeeping, Marketing, Business Financing and a Pitch Competition.