Guest Column, By Noelle Hagen

Have you heard about ALEAP? ALEAP was started to encourage the growth of entrepreneurship and small businesses in Albert Lea and Freeborn County. Here are five reasons why you should attend an ALEAP event.

1. You want to start a business.

If you have been considering starting your own business and you’re ready to make a leap, then you should be attending ALEAP events. ALEAP will expose you to a network of local entrepreneurs and help you connect to mentors and resources as you embark on your own path to entrepreneurship.

2. You already own/operate a business.

ALEAP is for new and experienced entrepreneurs. Event topics range from stories of success to knowledgeable presenters on topics that affect your small business or start-up.

3. You want to/need to network.

Still not convinced? ALEAP offers a welcoming and collaborative environment to share ideas and network with like-minded individuals. Did we mention the monthly events are free? That’s right, no sign-ups, no fees — just show up and network!

4. You have something to offer to local
entrepreneurs.

Are you an experienced business professional, consultant, or work within an industry where your services could be a benefit to local entrepreneurs? ALEAP is a great opportunity for you to network and to make connections. You, too, can be a part of this entrepreneurial revolution in Albert Lea.

5. You love your community.

And you want to make it even better. Help us do that by getting involved, sharing ALEAP events and helping us create opportunities for our community to grow and prosper.

Now that you know why you should attend, here’s the details for the next event:

• ALEAP Speaker Night: Schipp’s Pro Power Wash

• From 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 22 (Note the date change due to spring break.)

Established in 2010, husband and wife team John and Danielle Schipper have built their business from the ground up. Join us as they share their story. We will be meeting at 2380 Crossroad Boulevard — part of the new expansion at Schipp’s!

To stay up-to-date with all things ALEAP, follow us on Facebook and join our mailing list. ALEAP monthly networking events occur the third Thursday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. If you have any questions about ALEAP or are interested in sponsoring an upcoming event, please contact Noelle Hagen at Albert Lea Economic Development Agency at 507-373-3930 or noellehagen@growalbertlea.com.

Noelle Hagen is the small business and marketing manager at Albert Lea Economic Development Agency.