Entrepreneurial Boot Camp
Class Curriculum
Fall 2010
The purpose of this class is to give you skills you need to start and grow your business and to help you develop a business plan that will keep you on course and get you funding.
On the first day of class, you will receive "The Plan: A Step-by-Step Business Plan Workbook" by NewGround Publications.
In the first class, participants will receive:
- Class schedule and assignments
- Contact information and numbers
- Business plan outline
- Information resources
- Instructor bios
To get the most out of this program, complete assignments on time. They will be reviewed by Janet Tanguay, Entrepreneurship Manager.
Attendance and punctuality are extremely important to the outcome and your ultimate success in this program. Special guests are often invited to class that may/may not be on this original agenda.
Attendance/punctuality are also given consideration in the selection of a final business plan competition winner. This semester, the business plan competition is being sponsored by First Niagara. The first prize winner will receive a $1,000 cash grant plus an annual Chamber membership.
Class evaluation forms must be completed and turned in at the end of each class.
Let Janet know if you need help with any aspect of your business, or with developing your business plan so that technical assistance can be scheduled.
For a complete syllabus, including speakers, homework assignments and class dates and times, download Entrepreneurial Assistance Program Fall 2010 Syllabus.
Class 1
Introductions
Schedule
Resources
Introduction to entrepreneurship
Understanding a business plan
Class 2
Business vision and mission statement
Marketing to the generations
Class 3
Business plan elements
Class 4
Financing your business
Small Business Administration
Small Business Development Center
A simple guide to your financial statements
Accounting panel
Class 5
Legal issues
Legal panel
Class 6
The numbers make me anxious
Technical assistance for writing business plan financials
Class 7
Market research
Class 8
Introduction to grand prize sponsor
Diversity training
Business etiquette
Class 9
TBD
Class 10
Human resources panel
Payroll
QuickBooks
Web marketing panel
Search engine optimization
Social media
Internet marketing
Podcasts/Webcasts
Class 11
Successful entrepreneurs speak about:
- Trademarks,
- Customer service,
- Retention,
- Expansion,
- Branding,
- Exit strategy
- ... and more
Class 12
Business plan financials final review and private consultations
Business insurance
How to create effective database content
Class 13
Speaking like you mean business
Making a great presentation to the EAP Business Plan Competition panel of judges
Class 14
Lemonade Stories: Inspiring Entrepreneurs & the Mothers Who Made Them
Finalize financials
Class 15
Business plan presentations
Class 16
Graduation
Winner of Business Plan Competition announced