Starting a business seminar

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The economy may be hurting, but that just might make this the right time to start a new business.

The Massachusetts Latino Chamber of Commerce Wednesday night launched a three-week seminar to help Hispanic entrepreneurs get started. The focus: the legal implications and ramifications of incorporating, signing a commercial lease and hiring employees.

Two dozen hopeful business people took in seminar. Mass Latino Chamber of Commerce legal counsel Reynaldo Gonzalez said response was good, and there was a "full house" in Springfield Wednesday Night.

He told 22News the down economy is creating opportunities. "This is a time when people, because they have lost a job, or their income has decreased from other sources, are looking to start a new... fresh ideas... fresh business and new business."

Springfield Resident Felix Martinez was looking for guidance on starting a Puerto Rican products distribution business to operate throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. "I've been working for a lot of companies, and I think I am prepared to have my own business now."

The "How to Start your business" seminar is a three week course that meets twice per week. If you'd like to know more, you can contact the Latino Chamber of Commerce in Springfield at 746-1989.