Workshop leader Jerry Wong has trained thousands of individuals on the use of demographic and economic census data for market research, community analysis and planning, grant proposals, and general decision-making involving the use of statistical information.

KIHEI – On Friday, Oct. 2, Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB) will offer a new workshop, “Just the Facts: Using U.S. Census Demographic Data to Build a Business Plan,” as part of its Technical Assistance Series.

The workshop will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. at the MEDB Malcolm Center located at 1305 N. Holopono St., Suite 5, in Kihei.

The schedule is: registration from 8:30 to 9 a.m.; “Exploring the 3 Census Apps” seminar from 9 a.m. to noon; lunch and talk story from noon to 12:30 p.m.; “A Hands-On Look at the American Community Survey” from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.; and closing and participant feedback from 1:30 to 1:45 p.m.

This seminar will provide a hands-on look at three apps available from the U.S. Census Bureau to give small businesses and startups the edge they need in exploring the demographics of potential markets.

The recently released Census Business Builder, the Census Reporter, and OnTheMap can work together to obtain the data needed to create and/or refocus one’s business plan.

As an added bonus, attendees will also learn how the American Community Survey can provide useful information to assess the past and plan for the future.

The featured speaker is Jerry Wong, who currently serves as data dissemination specialist for the Census Bureau’s Los Angeles Region.

Over the course of four decennial censuses in 37 years of service, Wong’s experience has been extensive in both the Census Bureau’s missions of collecting and disseminating information. He has also supervised five of the bureau’s ongoing health surveys in the Los Angeles Region.

For over 20 years of his career, Wong has served as an information services specialist, working with community groups, businesses, elected officials, planners, other organizations and the media.

Admission is $20 per person, which includes lunch. Advanced reservations are required, and space is limited. For more information and to register online, visit www.medb.org/us-census-workshop/ or contact Frank De Rego Jr. at MEDB; e-mail frank@medb.org or call (808) 270-6807.

“This is an ideal opportunity for business owners and entrepreneurs to learn how the U.S. Census Data can enhance their strategic business decisions and planning,” said De Rego, director of business development projects at Maui Economic Development Board.

“Having accurate data and demographics of potential markets is an important tool that forms the basis for many important decisions that can ultimately put one on the road to success.”

The “Just the Facts: Using U.S. Census Demographic Data to Build a Business Plan” workshop is sponsored by the County of Maui, Maui Economic Development Board and the U.S. Census Bureau.

MEDB’s Technical Assistance Series is a grassroots effort to help small businesses establish strong systems, processes, tools and best practices to build a solid foundation for success.