Are You Ready for your Business to have an Online Presence?

Oskaloosa Area Chamber and Development Group

Did you know that 97% of people research local products and services online, 72.6% of people shopped online in 2011 and 59% of small businesses in Iowa do not have a website? These alarming statistics have made Gov. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Reynolds partner with Google to assist Iowa businesses in establishing an online presence. This Google-led program called “Iowa Get Your Business Online,” is dedicated to driving economic growth by providing local Iowa businesses the tools and resources to get online and grow and expand by providing a free and easy-to-build professional website, a free customized domain name and hosting for one year, a local business listing on Google Places, free tools, resources, and trainings.

“One of the best ways we can help small businesses and the economy is to help Iowa businesses increase their visibility online,” said Reynolds. Miranda Johnson, Director of Mahaska County Agricultural and Rural Development says, “We could not agree more. We are offering this FREE workshop to any business owner. “Iowa Get Your Business Online” is an easy, free, and fast way to get your business online.” With professional templates and a few easy steps, you can create and publish a website for your business in less than 60 minutes. There’s no catch and no cost.

Here’s what you get:

• A free, easy-to-build, professional website
• A free customized domain name and hosting for one year
• A free local business listing on Google Places
• Free tools, resources, and local events

The event will take place on Friday March 9, 2012 from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm at the Oskaloosa Community School District. If you are interested in attending please R.S.V.P. to ddegroot@oacdg.org or call 641.672.2591.

Remember, “If you’re not online, you’re invisible to customers who are looking online for businesses like yours. Only YOU can change that today!”