This 20-hour small business training program takes place on three (3) consecutive Wednesdays. Each session is a full day of classroom training beginning at 9:00 am and ending at 4:30 pm. The sessions are offered on a regular basis and about four 20-hour sessions are scheduled each year. All three sessions are included in the price of $60. An SBDC Certificate of Completion will be awarded at the end of the 3 sessions.

Reservations are required as space is limited. Call (607) 777-4024 or 777-4026 for registration or additional information.

Dates of upcoming scheduled sessions (Wednesdays):

September 3,10,17, 2008

January 7, 14, 21, 2009

Day 1 – The Basics of Business Ownership (9 am - 4:30 pm)

• Learn what it takes to own your own your own business and build market share
• Discover how to improve your chances of success
• Evaluate your leadership style and predict your success
• Assess the financial and market feasibility of your small business
• Hear a presentation by a local banker on how to finance your business*

Day 2 – Developing the Business Plan (9 am - 4:30 pm)

• Study a step-by-step process that will lead to your business success – a process that most bankers require and that you will need to manage your business
• Learn about market research, marketing strategies, competitive analysis, pricing, and operations
• Hear a presentation by an insurance agent about the types of coverage you need to protect your business, your family and you
• Learn methods to set up and maintain your business records from an accountant*

Day 3 - Managing by the Numbers/Essential Decisions (9 am - 4:30 pm)

• Discover how to understand and develop financial statements-the key to effective planning and profits
• Learn about hiring employees, dealing with suppliers, planning your inventory and launching your grand opening
• Find out about the basics of sales, advertising, networking and customer service
• Understand what you need to know about choosing the right business entity and other legal issues from a small business attorney*
• Hear how an entrepreneur started his/her business, overcame challenges and became successful*

*Dates of individual speakers' presentations might change based on their availability