Main Street Ottumwa is now accepting applications for Future Ready Main Street, a new business training program designed to help Ottumwa-area business owners build practical skills, explore emerging technologies and stay competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
The program will feature seven interactive training sessions held on Tuesday mornings throughout July and August, with sessions beginning at 8:00 a.m. to minimize disruption to normal business operations. The curriculum covers a variety of business-ready topics focused on helping participants work more efficiently, strengthen customer relationships, improve operations and better utilize AI.
The full course schedule and registration form are available at www.mainstreetottumwa.com/futureready.
Thanks to the support of the Legacy Foundation and South Ottumwa Savings Bank, participants who complete the program will qualify for a $500 implementation incentive that can be used to purchase hardware, software or other technology resources that help put lessons from the program into practice.
Topics include AI fundamentals, marketing strategy, customer communication, process improvement, automations, no-code development and other practical skills designed specifically for small business owners.
“Small businesses are facing a period of rapid technological change, and we want Ottumwa businesses to be positioned to benefit from it rather than be left behind by it,” said Kris Patrick, Executive Director of Main Street Ottumwa. “Future Ready Main Street is focused on practical tools and strategies that business owners can begin using immediately. Our goal is to help local businesses save time, improve service and remain competitive for years to come.”
Patrick noted that Main Street Ottumwa has embraced technology as a tool for community development, including the recent launch of Main Suite, the organization’s custom-built operations and engagement platform.
“We’ve seen firsthand how the right technology can eliminate barriers, improve communication and create better experiences for the people we serve,” Patrick said. “From developing Main Suite to incorporating AI-powered tools into our daily operations, Main Street Ottumwa has
worked to stay ahead of the curve. We are excited to share those resources and lessons with our local business community.”
The program is open to business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the Ottumwa area.
Space is limited, and interested participants are encouraged to apply early.
