RUMFORD – Anyone with an idea for a new business, or someone who plans to expand or change products is invited to learn the how’s and what’s of being successful at a Small Business Administration seminar Oct. 23 at the River Valley Technology Center.

Alden Turner, regional manager for the SBA office in Portland, said the two-hour seminar is meant to introduce people to general information about business plans, patent information and financial sources. They are directed to the proper source for information, depending on needs.

“The most frequently asked question, is, ‘where do we start?'” he said.

Locally, a Service Corps of Retired Executives representative can be found at Oxford Federal Credit Union, and a certified business counselor can be found at the River Valley Growth Council, he said.

The growth council is sponsoring the seminar. Diane Ray, acting council director, is the business counselor.

Turner conducts eight to 10 business seminars around Oxford, Cumberland and York counties each year.

Beverly Crosby, administrative assistant for the growth council, said about 10 people usually turn out for the free seminar. The last time it was offered in the River Valley was about a year ago.

She said people who come into the office requesting business information, or those who attend the growth council’s lunch and learn series, are often targeted to attend the SBA seminars.

“A River Valley Growth Council representative will also be available (at the seminar) to talk about programs offered locally,” she said. “It’s a great service and it’s free.”

Those wishing to attend should preregister at www.sba.gov/me, or call Patricia Knowles at the SBA at 622-8376.