‘BizGrowth Challenge’ seeks to help businesses grow, network

Government agencies involved in the permitting process of new or existing businesses have been invited to take part in the BizGrowth Challenge Launch Symposium slated for tomorrow.

Rik Villegas, business owner, consultant, and instructor who spearheads the BizGrowth Challenge efforts, said that he has communicated with the Department of Commerce and the Zoning Office, among others, and requested their presence at the symposium.

“The idea behind this is that we want people to attend the symposium and, at the same time, have business owners renew their licenses since the different permitting agencies will be there,” he told Saipan Tribune.

BizGrowth Challenge aims “to improve the local economy and quality of life in the CNMI by working collaboratively with organizations and experts to provide businesses with affordable resources to effectively achieve sustainable growth.”

The Challenge will start off with the Launch Symposium on June 22 and 23 at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center.

The first day, which is free of cost, will focus on assisting business owners to get business licenses, providing training for new businesses, and giving farmers the right trainings and tools through breakout sessions and discussions.

The second day will give an overview of the BizGrowth Challenge and help improve existing businesses through different personalized hands-on activities and training sessions.

The full-day session costs $97, which allows for any business to join the Challenge and send two company representatives to attend the training sessions covering several topics of interest. Additional employees can sign up for just $10 each.

Villegas noted that benefits to be received by companies that will take part in the Challenge—including the symposium, a strategic growth plan, customer service skills, online resource directory, mastermind teams, barter and outsourcing networks, publicity, prizes and recognition—are valued at over $1,800, which is more than what they will pay.

“There will probably be more benefits added as the Challenge progresses,” added Villegas.

According to him, the BizGrowth Challenge involves six dimensions: innovation and growth, marketing strength, professional development, operational capability, stakeholder relationships, and financial improvement.

Villegas said that each dimension will be dealt with for two weeks, and participating businesses will be evaluated after every dimension.

“The goal is to transform these businesses, help them improve, and achieve sustainable growth. There is hope,” he emphasized.

Villegas also noted that companies that do not make it to the launch can still join the BizGrowth Challenge.

“We need the participation of the business community to make things happen,” he said.

For more information, contact Villegas at 321-7458 or email RikVillegas@gmail.com.