US economic development body the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) has launched a free, on-demand retail training series for startups, entrepreneurs and small business owners across Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties in Mid-Michigan, as reported by Yahoo News, targeting a business community facing rising costs, shifting consumer habits and evolving technology demands.

The programme offers courses focused on business modernisation, financial management, revenue growth and restaurant resiliency, delivered in an on-demand format that allows participants to complete learning at times that fit their operational schedules.

Tony Willis, Chief Equity Development Officer for LEAP, said the programme addresses a structural gap between craft expertise and business management capability. "Many small businesses are focused on their craft and their thing that drew them into that industry. But running a business is a totally different skill set," he said. Willis noted that retail businesses continue to face pressure from rising costs, changing consumer habits and reduced foot traffic.

Jason Denovich, owner of New Look Computer and Data and a participant in the programme, said the breadth of skills required of small business owners makes structured training increasingly valuable. "It's really hard when you're a small business owner and you have to do it all," he said.

Denovich highlighted marketing as a particular area of need, noting the pace of change across digital platforms. "In today's day where we have Facebook and TikTok and all these new things coming out, it's actually really hard to stay on top of what we should be doing as small business owners," he said.

The on-demand format was identified as a key benefit for time-constrained operators. "The fact that there's one place for them to go to learn more and actually stay on track with what's changing, what's available out there, I think it's crucial," Denovich said.

LEAP said the programme is designed to help local businesses become more confident, efficient and better equipped for long-term success, while strengthening downtowns and main street business districts throughout the region.

Find out how to access the full training series in the full article.