If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, are about to start a new business or have already started one, a new discussion forum could be just the place you want to be. Join entrepreneurs and those who want to start their own businesses on Thursday, Nov. 18 at 5:30 p.m. in the Bracket Room, City Hall, 121 Fifth Ave. N., Edmonds.

This event will kick off a new effort to bring entrepreneurs together to meet, talk and informally share information about the challenges and rewards of starting a new business.  The program – called 425 Launch, developed by the Economic Development Committee of the Edmonds Chamber of Commerce –  aims to provide a forum for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to exchange ideas and experiences.

The format will include remarks from Economic Development Committee Chair Frank Yamamoto, owner of Edmonds-based Running in Motion, and a facilitated discussion among all attendees about challenges, issues, lessons learned and questions about starting and sustaining a small business.

Frank Yamamoto describes his business experience in this way: “I spent 30 years in the corporate world working for others. I decided to go out on my own as an entrepreneur and test the waters. I have owned a gift shop, started a company in the logistics field and now own another specialty retail store. Actual hands-on experience is something that can’t be duplicated in the traditional classroom and may be easier to explain and understand with true life experience. The book knowledge is important as well, but to know the little things that are not explained can be helpful towards making your own business a success.”

Future discussions will take place with other Edmonds entrepreneurs and will also include panel discussions about subjects of interest including navigating business licensing issues, funding possibilities, cash flow, social networking, technology, marketing and other issues determined by the group.