Here’s a look at the classes on offer. To find out more and register for any of these workshops, visit robinson.gsu.edu/sbdc.
Exploring Entrepreneurship
Are you in the early stages of planning a business? Are you looking for basic information to get on the right track? Attending this program will be one of the most important decisions you make prior to starting a business. This brief overview includes traits of successful entrepreneurs, how to determine feasibility of your business idea, business planning, and financial feasibility. Registration is required to attend. Space is limited. Feb. 6, 3:30-4:30 p.m. at GSU Small Business Development Center, 10 Park Place, SE, Suite 450, 30303.
Starting a Business
Lack of planning is one of the top reasons new businesses fail. Attending this program led by an experienced business professional will be one of the most important decisions you make prior to opening your business. Topics include traits of successful entrepreneurs, how to conduct market research, legal structures for your business, estimating start-up costs and cash flow projections, financing alternatives, failure factors, and business planning. A detailed start-up workbook and other handouts are provided. Feb. 12, 6-9 p.m. Cost: $69. GSU-Brookhaven Center, 4362 Peachtree Rd., 30319
Making Your Business Loan Ready
This workshop will cover the loan program eligibility requirements and credit criteria to accommodate a wide range of financing needs. Feb. 14, 6-8:30 p.m. Cost: $69. GSU-Brookhaven Center, 4362 Peachtree Rd., 30319
Certifications: A Marketing Strategy for Winning Contracts
This workshop will try to decode the certification alphabet soup and provide small business owners with an overview of the major public and private sector programs. Included is an overview of the National Minority Supplier Development Council MBE Program, Women’s Business Enterprise National Council WBE Program, the GSA Schedule Contract, the Department of Transportation DBE Program, HubZone, Veteran Owned Small Business and the new Women Owned Small Business Program program. Feb. 19, 6-8:30 p.m. Cost: $69. GSU-Brookhaven Center, 4362 Peachtree Rd., 30319.
Writing an Effective Business Plan
Starting a business without a plan is like going on a road trip without a map. A business plan helps you start, build, and manage you business. Learn why a business plan is critical to your success, especially if you plan to apply for a loan to finance your business. Topics include: the sections of a business plan, what information is required for each section and general format, balance sheet, income and financial projections, capital equipment list and sources of capital. Feb. 26, 6-8:30 p.m. Cost: $69. GSU-Brookhaven Center, 4362 Peachtree Rd., 30319.