eLEARNING FAQ's

What is First Step FastTrac?

First Step FastTrac® is a practical, hands-on education program created by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs.  The program is designed to help entrepreneurs hone the skills needed to create, manage, and grow successful businesses. 

Developed for entrepreneurs with low-to-moderate incomes who want to start or expand businesses First Step FastTrac provides the framework and tools for participants to explore their readiness and ability to be an entrepreneur. 

They learn how to develop a feasibility plan and to evaluate their business concept.  Participants work closely with other entrepreneurs, sharing ideas and experiences and laying the foundation for future business relationships.  Through the class, in small coaching sessions and through assignments completed outside-of-class, they explore issues related to key aspects of business. Participants determine whether their idea has "legs" and if starting a business is the right decision. Existing business owners also benefit from the process of systematic planning.

Who is currently sponsoring the program?

TREE partners, Business & Community Lenders (BCL) of Texas along with Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) of Dimmit County and the Middle Rio Grande Workforce are currently bringing together the First Step FastTrac program in the Middle Rio Grande Region. 

BCL of Texas is the lead administering the education component of T.R.E.E.  Currently BCL will be partnering with the Center for Economic Opportunity (C.E.O.) Spring 2010 to bring Fast Trac First Step program to the Lower Rio Grande Valley. BCL is also looking for new partners in the Laredo area to host First Step FastTrac.

How will First Step FastTrac assist me?

First Step FastTrac is a 12 session program that leads people through determining the feasibility of starting or expanding a business. 

This business training program relies on a wide range of training topics, including:

• Writing Skills
• Marketing research
• Market Analysis
• Financials
• Case Studies

A special facilitation team and process, including:

• An experience Facilitator
• Knowledgeable business coaches
• Small group exercises
• Weekly take-home assignments
• Individual meeting with the facilitator, who will assist your preparation of a feasibility plan.

What is expected of me?

• Attend all sessions.  Only one excused absence is allowed; two absences result in automatic withdrawal from the program.

• Be on time.  Sessions start promptly at 6:00 p.m.

• Participate in module discussions and networking.

• Complete take-home assignments on time.

• Respect the confidentiality of other participants

• Demonstrate the ethical soundness of your business

• Ensure your business is fully licensed and in compliance with all city, county, state, and federal laws

• Provide sponsoring organizations information about your business.

First Step FastTrac®

Registration Information

If your interested in joining our available business education classes, call us at 816-235-6598 for additional information and to register.

Student Forms

Below are links to form each student will need to review and complete. 

Program Description & Class Outline

Student Intake

Student Interview

First Step FastTrac (Primer Paso FastTrac) is also available in Spanish! Click here for a program outline in Espanol .

First Step FastTrac® Team

Lucia (Lucy) Brooks

Program Facilitator

830.876.5295

Ms. Brooks currently teaches all business development classes as well as provides additional confidential one-on-one counseling to class participants.  Lucy is available by appointment on Thursdays from 2pm-6pm as well as by phone and email Monday thru Thursday.

Raquel Valdez

Program Administrator

888.385.1975

512.383.0025

Ms. Valdez will be available to provide additional one-on-one counseling as well as assistance and guidance to participants in the program.  If at any time you have questions, suggestions or complaints please contact Raquel.