Launch & Grow is for aspiring and early-phase small businesses owners, or those that have already launched a business but need to create a business plan to support their strategic growth or secure financing.  Launch & Grow is a Washington State SEAP approved course designed to train participants on starting and running their business. Through seven, 3-hour sessions participants will learn how to manage, market and finance their business while creating a solid business plan.

This opportunity is designed to be a comprehensive program and is a paid course. Each participant can expect to budget 10-12 hours per week to ensure success in this class—this includes 3 hours of class time and 7-9 hours of “pre- & post- session work” outside of class.

Launch & Grow Sessions (10 a.m. – 1 p.m.):

Session I: Planning (July 12)

•        What is an entrepreneur?
•        What does it mean to be a business owner?
•        Feasibility and business planning.
•        Key components of a business plan, leadership and business ethics.

Session II: Products and Services (July 19)

•        Products/Services
•        Price
•        Distribution/Place
•        Features versus Benefits
•        USP
•        Competitive Matrix

Session III: Marketing Part 1 (July 26)

•        Industry
•        Customer
•        Competition
•        SWOT Analysis

Session IV: Marketing Part 2 (August 2)

•        Components of marketing strategy, including:
•        An in-depth look at social media marketing and budget strategies.

Session V: Financial Planning Part 1 (August 9)

•        Understanding Financial Statements
•        Record-keeping
•        Chart of Accounts and Financial Ratios.

Session VI: Financial Planning Part 2 (August 16)

•        Cash flow projection
•        Financing options
•        The 5 “C”s of Lending

Session VII: Growth (August 23)

•        Human Resource Management
•        Contractor vs. Employee
•        Growing Your Business
•        Group Presentations

NOTICE: Launch & Grow Your Business sessions will be held via a virtual meeting on the Zoom platform, not in-person.

Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact WBC@businessimpactnw.org or call (206) 324-4330 x 155