Small Business is Everybody’s Business

OROVILLE – The WSU Extension Office and the City of Oroville are asking people to join them on April 17 for the Rural Pathways to Prosperity Conference an joint effort to try and improve the local economies in rural areas.

“Join us on April 17 for a day of inspiration, learning and regional networking to create jobs, improve your economy, add value to your existing rural businesses, encourage new entrepreneurs and engage with a national expert… without leaving your community,” said organizers.

Participants in sites across rural Washington will watch Erik Pages, on a webinar with the opportunity to ask questions. After his presentation, each site will put his ideas into action through organized activities, turning their attention to local issues, resources and project ideas.

The conference is from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and the Oroville site will be held at the Pastime Bar and Grill, 1307 Main Street.

“For me this is timely. People have expressed their concern about the current state of downtown and the local economy,” said Chris Branch, Oroville’s director of Community Development. “This is a good time to sit down and have a structured conversation.”

Branch feels the conference is a good opportunity for businesspeople, especially those in the downtown area of Oroville and potential downtown business owners, to get together with other area residents to discuss concerns.

“Certainly it is for people who are concerned for Oroville’s future,” he said, emphasizing the hope for increased partnerships between the city and business.

The 2015 Rural Pathways to Prosperity Conference is sponsored by WSU Extension, Washington State Department of Commerce, Association of Washington Cities, USDA-Rural Development, Avista Corporation and the state Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board.

The registration fee is $30 … with a $25 early bird special between March 5 and April 10. For more information, visit waruralprosperity.wsu.edu or call Chris Branch, 509-560-3535. This conference is sponsored by WSU Extension, the City of Oroville, and the Oroville Chamber of Commerce.

Persons with a disability requiring special accommodations while participating in this program may call WSU Stevens County Extension 509-684-2588.