WHO WE ARE:


 

WCBF has Deep Roots in the Community

HISTORY:
WCBF is a not-for-profit corporation formed in 2001.  A group of local citizens became aware of the work done by Ernesto Sirolli and the Sirolli Institute.  After reading Sirolli’s book, Ripples from the Zambezi, they were determined to bring the innovative program to Wallowa County.  From this “idea”, Wallowa County Business Facilitation was formed.  The results are impressive and WCBF has become one of the most successful local facilitation programs in the Sirolli network.

Wallowa County is located in the far northeast corner of Oregon amid towering mountains, lush valleys, and deep canyons.  The remote nature of the area presents unique challenges to businesses and WCBF provides strong support to assist individuals to turn their business dreams to reality.

TODAY:
WCBF uses the Trinity of Management concept from the Sirolli Institute.  This concept is based on the belief that no business can succeed for long without skills and commitment in three critical areas:
1) production of the goods or services
2) marketing
3) financial management and planning

It is rare that an entrepreneur can do all three things well.  Much like a 3-legged stool, the design is one of the strongest when all legs are sound.  However, it will collapse if one leg is weak. The business facilitator is trained to help the entrepreneur build a complementary team for the business and will work with the client for as long as needed to build strength in all three critical areas. 

The model is executed by an individual business facilitator, supported by a working Board of Directors.  The business facilitator is the primary contact and coach for clients.  The Directors, comprised of local business and community leaders, provide a network of support and knowledge.