Wondering what you would do in the event of being laid off? Perhaps you have dreamed about running your own business? If you have an idea, a unique talent or if you are a skilled tradesperson or have a hobby you would like to turn into a business, you'll want to take these three simple steps to discover if you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur.

The Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) has been helping entrepreneurs and small business in Durham Region to start successful and stay successful for over 10 years. If you are at risk of being affected by layoff, we invite you to take the following steps toward becoming a successful small business owner/operator. Who knows, you may be a future employer yourself!

Step 1: Visit www.bacd.ca and click on the "Erase Your Doubts" button. You will be linked to an entrepreneurial self-assessment survey. It is free, quick, painless and even pretty fun. Your feedback is instant.

Step 2: Sign up for our "How to Start a Small Business" seminar. This no-cost seminar offers you lots of general but important information about starting a business in Durham Region. You will also learn about the resources available in our "BACD Toolbox" to help you get started on the right path to success.

Step 3: Once we have helped you erase your doubts about becoming an entrepreneur, we're ready to help you get started on your business plan. First, you will want to attend our no-cost Market Research Seminar to get the facts on critical business issues like your competition, your target audience for your product or service. You'll learn how to analyze the information and make a cost effective plan to reach potential customers.

Seminars are held at the BACD office located at 50 Richmond St. E. in Oshawa. You can register for our seminars or events online at www.bacd.ca or by calling Client Services at 905-438-4008 ext. 221.

Then, drop in and visit our Internet lounge to access our exclusive market research tools and business directories. Return often to work in our business library and work through your business idea with the support of our staff. When you are ready, you can schedule a one-on-one consultation with a business consultant who will help guide you with information on business essentials such as marketing, sales, e-commerce and financial forecasts for your business -- from start up to three years out.

We can help you turn what might seem impossible to possible . . . and shape that idea into a reality.