The Nevada City Microenterprise Loan Program offers five free or low-cost classes aimed at helping small business owners, start-ups, and those seriously thinking of starting a small business.

Class participants must have a business presence in Nevada City.

The first class, “Business Basics,” will be held 6-9 p.m. Thursday at the Madelyn Helling Library Community Room. Pre-registration is required. Check out www.nevadacitybizloans.com, then call David Nelson Consulting, program operator, at (530) 346-7195 for more information and to pre-register.

The Northeastern California Small Business Development Center Greater Sierra (SBDC) provides experienced instructors who make learning fun and provide real life business solutions and strategies. Past class members have enjoyed the individual attention, lively discussions, and networking opportunities available through the classes, which run from Feb. 9 through March 6.

All classes will be held at the Helling Library Community Room except “Bookkeeping for Small Businesses,” which will be at the One Stop Business & Career Center, 715 Maltman Dr., Grass Valley.

Call about this great opportunity to gain skills for achieving business success, and to apply for loan funds through the Nevada City Microenterprise Loan Program.

Loans can be used for purchase of equipment, working capital, tenant improvements, and business, building and/or property purchase. Interest rates are generally low, long term, and flexible. A second program can assist with job creation.

Call (530) 346-7195 for information.