PITTSFIELD, Mass. – With 98% of Massachusetts' businesses defined as small businesses and providing nearly 50% of the state's employment, 12.4% have failed. To confront that failure rate, Greylock Federal Credit Union is partnering with several banks to help entrepreneurs with their business plans. The credit union, along with Banknorth Massachusetts, Berkshire Bank, Hoosac Bank, Pittsfield Cooperative Bank and the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce are co-sponsors of a business planning workshop that will focus on management fundamentals from start-up considerations through business plan development. Topics for discussion include business structure, legal obligations, market research, marketing and advertising, financial reports and financing considerations. The University of Massachusetts Small Business Development Center will present the workshop from 9:00-12:00 on Oct. 5 at the Williamstown Financial Center Community Room here.