Simple Steps for Starting Your Business Series

Learn how to do it—whether to do it—from mentors who've been there

SCORE's 6-workshop program gives you a practical overview of the fundamentals required to start a small business. This course helps you test the feasibility of your idea and decide whether or not you should move forward with your business or go back to the drawing board. You'll do this by researching industry profile data, customer data, financial projections, and other information. You'll also have a sample feasibility plan to use as a guide. Attend any or all of the six, 2-hour workshops.

This course is also a prerequisite to the Liberty Bank Small Business Program which offers a $5,000.00 line of credit. Find out more about the program here:  https://conta.cc/2nChh7L  

You'll gain:

• Knowledge of the fundamentals you need to start a small business 
• Perspective from mentors who've been there and can see what you don't see 
• The peace of mind and confidence that come from knowing you've thought through everything 

If you are a more experienced business owner, use the program as a back-to-basics refresher. You do not have to be a current or former SCORE client to participate.

Session 1: Market Research Process – Thursday, 10/3

 Assess whether there is a true need in your community for the services you will offer, the price point they are willing to pay, and exactly who they are and how best to market to them

Session 2: Start Up Basics – Thursday, 10/10

You will learn about the myths and realities of entrepreneurship, different types of businesses, resources you need to make it work, and legal structures.

Session 3: Business Plan – Thursday, 10/17

You will learn how to create you mission and vision statements and how to use the information gathered in the market research to create a business plan.

Session 4: Marketing Plan – Thursday, 10/24

You will learn how to market your business by doing a competitive comparison, creating a product and services description, developing a pricing strategy, identifying your target markets and channels, outlining a marketing message and learning sales basics.

Session 5: Financial Projections – Monday, 10/28

You learn about risk vs. reward, and the financial planning process that will help you assess both. Having a financial plan will not only help guide business development decisions and monitor results, but it will also help you match your business concept with personal income goals. In addition, the financial plan can be used as a budget, and can be compared to actual results in the future.

Session 6: Funding Sources and Next Steps-Thursday, 11/7

You will learn about accounting and bookkeeping systems, sources of capital, the six C’s of credit, and banking relations. You will also conduct a financial statement analysis and determine the next steps on your path to starting a business.

 

 

Requirements for Admission:

 Desire to start a business

 Commitment to attending and participating in all 6 workshops

 Sign up for SCORE Mentorship for 6-12 months

 

Requirements for Certificate:

 Must attend all 6 workshops to receive the certificate of completion.

 

 

 

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Please remember:

1. Monitor your emails for any updates to the date/location/time.

2. Our workshops are PAPERLESS, so you will receive an email the day before the workshop linking you to any handouts. You should print it out or load it onto a laptop, tablet, or phone for viewing.

3. Bring your cell phone as you will receive an email with a link to your workshop evaluation form. It will be sent to you toward the end of the workshop so you can complete it effortlessly online before you leave. Wi-Fi is available in most locations.

Please Note:

1. You must register online for all workshops. No walk-ins will be allowed for any paid workshops because we do not have the ability to take payment on the spot.

2. Please arrive with enough time to get settled as every workshop will start promptly.

3. Parking will not be validated for workshops in Downtown Hartford. Please download the WOONERF App on your phone so that you can replenish the parking meter from your phone if you choose to park on the street.

Free Business Counseling:

To get free one-on-one business counseling or learn about other SCORE free and paid workshops, please visit our website.

SCORE is a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit association.

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