A series of free business planning workshops, for eligible businesses with five or fewer employees (including business owner), will begin in El Dorado County starting the week of Jan. 21.

Qualifying start-up and existing small businesses may attend the workshops at no cost. Businesses must be located in the unincorporated area of El Dorado County and not exceed the following income limits for the following household sizes: one person, $40,050; two people, $45,800; three people, $51,500; four people, $57,200; five people, $61,800; and six people, $66,400.

This seven-week workshop series will provide participants with critical information to help their business grow and thrive. Topics include a wide range of technical assistance areas including writing a business plan, managing business finances, branding and marketing, and access to capital.

In addition to the workshop series, participants will be encouraged to take advantage of free and confidential one-on-one business consulting through the Sierra Small Business Development Center.

Space is limited at the workshop series and pre-registration is required. To enroll, contact Emily Kornhauser at 530.582-.5022 orEkornhauser@sierrabusiness.org.