Following a successful kickoff, Iowa Valley Business and Community Solutions and Iowa Workforce Development are announcing the second free lunch and learn session in the “Navigating Tomorrow: Your Future-Ready Succession Plan” series.

This upcoming event, titled “Building Your Toolkit: Resources for Succession Planning,” will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 28 at Iowa Valley Conference Center, 3702 S. Center St., Marshalltown, providing small business owners with tangible resources and practical steps for developing succession blueprints.

While the first session offered invaluable insights from experienced panelists, this event shifts focus to equipping attendees with the concrete tools and guidance needed to begin or refine succession plans. Participants will learn about key considerations and receive resources to help them navigate the complexities of preparing business for the future.

“The enthusiasm for our first session, ‘The Voice of Experience,’ clearly showed the demand for practical succession planning resources in our community,” says Jacque Goodman, vice president of Iowa Valley Business and Community Solutions. “This ‘Building Your Toolkit’ session is a direct response to that need. We want every business owner to leave with actionable items and a clearer path forward.”

Succession planning is vital for ensuring the continued success and legacy of any small business, whether an owner is considering retirement, looking to grow or simply planning for unforeseen circumstances. This session will provide templates, checklists and expert advice to help demystify the process and make it more manageable.

“Supporting our local businesses means providing them with the resources they need to thrive for generations,” said Michelle Roseburrough of Iowa Workforce Development. “This toolkit session is an excellent opportunity for business owners to get hands-on with the planning process and secure their future.”

The “Building Your Toolkit” session is free to attend, and a complimentary lunch will be provided. Advance registration is required to ensure adequate planning for lunch and materials. Register via the official event website: ce.iavalley.edu/successionplanning/

Small business owners and entrepreneurs are encouraged to register early to secure a spot and take the next step in securing their business’s future.