Delmarva Entrepreneur Expo - WMDT 47 News - Delmarva's Choice

SALISBURY, MD- Given the current state of the economy, starting a new business might seem like a huge risk.  But it appears there are groups out there willing to help you get started and there are plenty of incentives.  "I just think its a great opportunity," says Joni Kindell,  whose starting her own business.  Joni Kendell is a local pastor whose chasing the divine dream of starting her own church supply business. "A strong belief in yourself and deep sense of dedication," says the Seminar Instructor.  

Kindell came to the Delmarva Entrepreneur Expo in Salisbury to get financial advice and other tips on how start and maintain a successful business.  "Hoping to network with others to talk about some of the challenges they may have, what are some of the pros and cons of having a start-up business," says Kindell.

It takes commitment and it takes endurance," says Phillip Caton, Vice President of Caton & Blye Accounting Firm.   Phillip Caton is vice president of the local accounting firm Caton and Blye.     He encourages new business owners to be patient when it comes to seeing an eventual profit margin." A business does not turn over a profit until after its 5th year in operation even though they may break even which means there going to pay off their debts," says Caton.

The city of Salisbury wants to attract these new entrepreneurs to the downtown area where they are offering many tax credits and other incentives. "Cutting some of our business start up cost, trying to get rid of surface parking lots on the waterfront property, incentives like the cities revolving loan fund, the arts and entertainment tax credit, the historic district tax credits," says Jim Ireton, Mayor of Salisbury.

And the best bit of information for new entrepreneurs...knowledge is key. Experts say you should learn all you can about business licenses, fire codes and taxes before you start a new business venture.