StartSmart: Your Business Foundations

Event description

Starting a business is an exciting journey, but it’s essential to lay the groundwork for success. StartSmart: Your Business Foundations is a dynamic, hands-on, interactive course designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who are ready to turn their ideas into thriving businesses.

You will learn how to:

– Validate that there’s a market for your product or service
– Conduct effective customer discovery and market research
– Craft a compelling elevator pitch to attract interest and investment
– Build a customer persona to better understand your audience
– Navigate legal structures and essential considerations for your business
– Understand the basics of accounting, bookkeeping, pricing, and sales
– Explore HR essentials, from hiring to managing contractors
– Develop strategies to ensure long-term profitability and growth

 Class Includes:

– Proof2Profit access (curriculum + virtual sessions)
– A comprehensive binder packed with worksheets and resources to expand on what you learn in class 
– Group learning, lively discussions, and coaching in a collaborative environment
– One-on-one coaching sessions with an SBDC business coach for personalized guidance
– Access to the LivePlan toolkit for writing your business plan and creating 3 years of sales projections
– Networking opportunities with other entrepreneurs and business owners
– Access to four single-session classes right for any phase of business: Reading & Understanding Financial Statements, Show Me the Money! Navigating Funding Options for Your Business, Social Media for Small Business, and Branding 101 (must be completed no later than July 31, 2025).

Each session is packed with real-world applications, interactive activities, and expert guidance. You’ll leave with practical tools and a clear roadmap to take your business from concept to launch.

Whether you’re at the idea stage or have just started, **StartSmart: Your Business Foundations** will give you the confidence and knowledge to succeed. Secure your spot today and get ready to turn your vision into reality!

StartSmart sessions include:
May 20 – 3:00pm-6:00pm – Proof2Profit – Virtual
May 27 – 3:00pm-6:00pm – Proof2Profit – Virtual
June 3 – 3:00pm-6:00pm – Proof2Profit – Virtual
June 10 – 9:00am-12:00pm – StartSmart – In-Person, 4747 Troost Ave
June 17 – 9:00am-12:00pm – StartSmart – In-Person, 4747 Troost Ave
June 24 – 9:00am-12:00pm – StartSmart – In-Person, 4747 Troost Ave
July 1 – 3:00pm-6:00pm – Reading & Understanding Financial Statements – Virtual
July 8 – 3:00pm-6:00pm – Show Me the Money! – Virtual
July 15 – 9:00am-12:00pm – Branding – In-Person, 4747 Troost Ave
July 22 – 9:00am-12:00pm – Social Media for Small Business – In-Person, 4747 Troost Ave

Register here by May 16!