C0001 Getting Started: Define Your Business Model - 7/23/19 

Before you start writing a traditional business plan, you should have a clear vision and business modelfor your startup.

Business Model Canvas is a visual chart with nine blocks describing your company’s value proposition,infrastructure, customers and finances. You’ll have a much easier time explaining your business andgetting buy-in to your vision when it’s laid out on a single page. In addition, all work done can be reusedif a more comprehensive business plan is needed later.

In this 3-hour workshop you will learn how to use the Business Model Canvas and test yourunderstanding with a case study.  You will brainstorm your ideas with the group and leave witha good start on your own Canvas.

WORKSHOP PRESENTER BIO: 

Mariann Zylstra spent two decades as a commercial banker and financial services executive, helping businesses of all sizes in structuring optimal financing packages, budgeting, forecasting and managing cash flow.  She has served businesses in a wide variety of industries as a trusted advisor on multiple business issues, with the last 10 years spent in an executive role leading sales teams with profit center management responsibilities.  She has also served as Executive Director for two nonprofit organizations as well as serving on multiple nonprofit boards.  Over the years, Mariann has read and provided feedback on dozens of lengthy business plans, and she was delighted to discover the Business Model Canvas, a one-page business concept validation tool.  Mariann has an MBA from Indiana University.