The Small Business Center at Sandhills Community College offers free seminars designed for small business owners and employees as well as for prospective entrepreneurs.

What would be the best businesses to start in these tough economic times? "Best Small Businesses to Start" will explore the businesses that are likely to grow and prosper in the upcoming years.

This class will be Tuesday, Feb. 16, from 6 to 9 p.m.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment has surpassed 10 percent in North Carolina.

As a result, now more than ever employees are searching for ways to showcase their value and prove their worth.

"Ten Commandments of Making Yourself More Valuable" will be held Tuesday, Feb. 23, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Participants will learn how to help their boss recognize their contributions.

They will also learn how to demonstrate management and leadership potential and other effective ways to help keep their job.

The key to beginning a successful business is a winning business plan. "Creating a Winning Business Plan" will be offered Tuesday, Feb. 23, from 6 to 9 p.m.

Participants will learn how to create a simple or full-length plan, learn what information the bank will be concerned about and how to properly prepare these sections for retail, service, manufacturing and direct marketing businesses.

The U.S. government is the world's largest customer, and it routinely does business with small businesses. The key to winning the government as a customer is to follow proper procedures.

"Doing Business with the Government" will be offered Thursday, Feb. 25, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Participants will learn how to connect with federal and state solicitations. They will also learn about the basics of bidding for these lucrative contracts.

A two-part course, "Bookkeeping I for Small Businesses," will be held Tuesday, Feb. 25, and Thursday, March 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. The basic principles of accounting and recordkeeping for small business will be addressed.

Accounts receivable, accounts payable, general ledger and financial statements will also be covered. In addition, the instructor will provide help for new businesses with records setup and will also answer questions for established businesses.

Preregistration is requested for all seminars.

Call (910) 695-3938 or e-mail neelym@sandhills.edu for more information and to preregister.

These programs are funded by a grant from the N.C. Legislature to increase the success rate of small businesses.

In addition to free seminars, the Center, located in 101 Van Dusen Hall, offers informational resources, one-on-one counseling and referrals.