Micro Business Development

Upcoming BROC Shop

Business Plan Writing Course

Classes are always free & virtual. You can attend one, some, or all courses!

Class 1: 01/28/2026 – Vision Statement, The Foundation and Evaluating your Market.

Class 2: 02/04/2026 – Company Description, Goals & Summary, and Developing a Narrative.

Class 3: 02/11/2026 – Market Research, Competitive Analysis, and SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) Analysis.

Class 4: 02/18/2026 – Marketing Strategy.

Class 5: 02/25/2026 – Business Plan Development Strategy and Working the Numbers.

Class 6: 03/04/2026 – The Financial Plan

Are you thinking about starting or expanding a small business? We are here to help!

Business Planning

Step by step business plan development.

Financial Forecasting

Not sure where to spend your money on your business? Not sure how profitable you might be? Let us help you figure out what a realistic roadmap looks like for your business idea.

Individualized Counseling

Each type of business has their own identity, much like the entrepreneurs behind the business. We are happy to meet and discuss what will help make you successful.

Step 1. Panning & Strategy

Set up an appointment to discuss your business idea or the expansion of your current business.

Step 2. Design

Let us help you design or redefine your business model. We are here to help you navigate all that is involved in starting a new business venture.

Step 3. Release & Promotion

We will be here long after you have opened to ensure you will be as successful as possible. We can help with a virtual presence, marketing and anything else we can.

Shelley Faris

Economic & Workforce Development Director

Shelley has been a one-of-a-kind business leader at BROC Community Action. Shelley has helped countless people get back on their feet financially with credit building and budgeting workshops, while also helping Micro Business owners propel businesses forward. Shelley is an advocate for women and the underserved population who works to make a path forward attainable and sustainable. Having served the community in the teaching and learning field, she has covered a lot of territory and will continue to do so. Shelley enjoys outdoors, nature and living off the grid.

Email Shelley Call Shelley

Kevin Canney

Business Counselor

Kevin is the business counselor in the Micro Business Development Program at BROC Community Action. He is locally grown and educated with an M Ed. From Saint Michael’s College. He has served Rutland and Bennington counties in the business field and teaching and learning community for over 20 years. Having taught computer applications at Community College of Vermont (CCV-Rutland) for 15 years, he developed a project-based learning component with students to design business plans and financial spreadsheets and charts. Kevin has also owned businesses in computer assistance, marketing and education concurrently over the same period. Kevin enjoys outdoor concerts, golf and theater.

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What Our Clients Say

“This is a difficult time for so many businesses and organizations like yours who create opportunities especially for small businesses to sustain ourselves is truly helpful and important. We found your process and the communication with your team very clear and efficient. Thank you so much for your assistance!”

“The ability of caring organizations and legislative bodies to provide help to businesses weathering the current situation shows a strong commitment to the health of our communities and neighbors. Thank you!”

“We are most grateful and appreciative. It would have been just horrible to have to shut down a business you've poured your heart and soul into, especially working 100+ hours a week. It really helps keep the dream alive. Thank you! ”