Have you ever considered opening your own business, but did not know where to start?

The Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the city, the Business Development Corp. of the Northern Panhandle and First Microloan of West Virginia to offer an educational series to help new entrepreneurs, as well as longtime business owners who are looking to grow their operations.

The Business Bootcamp educational series kicks off Thursday with “Where Do I Start? Licensing Requirements for Weirton and West Virginia.” As part of the session, representatives of the city and the Small Business Development Center will go over requirements for obtaining a business license for the city and the state — both of which are needed to open your doors.

Future sessions will look at zoning requirements, as well as the costs and benefits of purchasing, renting or leasing a building, marketing and branding, financing options, understanding financial statements, workforce development and human resources regulations.

Each session will begin at 8 a.m. in the Weirton Room of the Millsop Community Center, and pre-registration is required, along with a fee of $10 per session to cover the costs of food.

Information about the series is available by contacting the Chamber at (304) 748-7212.

Whether you are considering opening a new business, looking to get started or have a business that has been around for decades, chances are you will find something beneficial from this program. Attend all of them, or pick a few which might have an interest to you.

Our business community strengthens and grows through support from residents and other businesses.

This series offers an opportunity to learn, grow and support each other, while building a better future for all.