The Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau is partnering with the University of Minnesota and Community Education to offer some exciting new business classes this season.

The first offering is scheduled in early March at the Ellis Middle School computer lab.

“How to Make your Business a Destination in a Digital World” will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on March 1 and 8.

Is your business struggling to make sure your customers can find you and are you a real roadside destination in this digital age? Can your business be found by customers that search with an online map or GPS device?

About 50 million people are now using GPS units and many times more are using digital maps like Google Maps to find the goods and services they want to purchase. Make sure that your business can be found digitally so your cash registers will keep ringing.

Churches, businesses, schools and civic organizations as well as all interested persons will learn how to take the maximum advantage of all the portable devices that travelers are using today. Don’t make the mistake of missing out on this segment of the population that uses these modes of advertising in their decision-making.

In this hands-on class, you’ll gain know-how and learn the right tools to get on maps and devices being used in this roadside marketing era. The cost is only $10 per person for both evenings. Second dates are set, should this class fill quickly like it is expected to. Contact the Austin Community Education office to register. Register either online at http://austin.revtrack.net, in person at their office at 912 1st Avenue NE or by calling 460-1706. We would love to have you join us, and learn how to better market your business. Class size is limited, so don’t delay.

All classes and other upcoming events are listed on our newly launched Austin CVB website. Check it out at www.austincvb.com and click on the calendar.

Lastly, we would love it if you would visit the special Coupon Collection feature on our website. Visit us there also at www.austincvb.com and check out all the specials that you can take advantage of. Just print off the coupon pages, and you are entitled to some great deals such as hotel discount rates – for when you have incoming family and friends visiting this year; menu discounts from many dining establishments.

As always, you can find us at our website, on our Facebook page at the Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau, here in our monthly columns, and on our weekly radio shows, the “Austin Action Report” on KAUS 1480 AM on Fridays with John Wright at 8:50 am. Contact us at 507-437-4563 or visitor@austinmn.com.