https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnDZoDvZFgk
The Entrepreneurship Certification Program is for people interested in or planning to open a business. NEDCO, SFASU, Angelina SBDC and The Chamber of Commerce combine efforts to help new entrepreneurs navigate the beginning stages of opening a business. During the program, students will learn how to write a business plan, perform an "elevator pitch," apply for loans, and ask questions to business owners who were once in their shoes. Upon completeion, students will received an "Entrepreneurship Certificate." Below is the general curriculum for the 6 week program, but the class is subject to change based on students' needs.
SESSION I: INTRODUCTION
What is Entrepreneurship? How do I turn my idea into a business?
Local entrepreneurs will tell their story of how they started their business and got on the road to success. You will learn how to get your idea on paper; improve and refine your idea throughout the classes. If you have multiple ideas, pick one to focus on throughout the class.
SESSION II: REALITY CHECK
You’ll also hear about businesses that didn’t succeed, when to move on, and how to turn failure in to success. You’ll learn to identify the symptoms that lead to adversity and recognize the need to make changes.
SESSION III: CONNECTING THE DOTS
Learn why you need a business plan, and how to write one. Understand who your customers are, and resources available to help you through the process. You’ll receive materials to help you get started, provided by the SBDC.
SESSION IV: THE HUMAN FACTOR
Everything from customers, to employees. You’ll learn about hiring and firing, customer service, training, and human resources. Hear from local entrepreneurs about how they made the jump from being the sole operator to hiring the first employee.
SESSION V: MONEY MONEY MONEY
Initial financing, cash flow, accounting. Learn the differences between LLC and a sole proprietorship, and employment versus contract labor.
SESSION VI: WRAP IT UP
You will learn how to identify your target audience, and which media platform is the best way to target your market.
Give your elevator pitch and receive critique and advice.
Hear from city officials on pre-development and permitting to make the process as easy as possible.
The Accelerator Program is for entrepreneurs/business owners who want to take their business to the next level. NEDCO, SFASU, Angelina SBDC and The Chamber of Commerce provide this program to exisiting business owners of at least 6 months. During the program, business owners will learn about managing finances, attracting customers, customer service, and have the chance to ask successful business owners for advice. Below is the general curriculum for the 6 week program, but the class is subject to change based on students' needs.
*Note: These programs are not eligible for college credit.
Week 1 – Orientation, Idea Validation (October 1, 2019)
Week 2 – Customer Base (October 8, 2019)
Week 3 – Meaningful financials and raising capital (October 15th, 2019)
Week 4 – Building your team (October 21st, 2019)
Week 5 – Graduation (October 29th, 2019)