Starting Out
If you're at the exploration stage, or ready to start a business, you’ll need to take steps that will increase the odds of a successful launch. Our Start-Up Program -- consisting of workshops, seminars, bridge counseling and one-on-one business counseling -- simplifies the process by guiding you through it one step at a time.
STEP 1: FIND OUT HOW WBDC CAN SUPPORT YOU IN STARTING A BUSINESS.
*Attend an Introduction to the WBDC services and programs, where wine and cheese are served.
STEP 2: ENROLL IN ONE OF THE WBDC's BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SERIES
* FastTrac Planning, a 12-week business plan program that awards participants with
a Business Certificate, or
you'll need to start your own child care business.
EACH SERIES WILL:
* Accelerate the stages of building your own business
* Guide you through the transition from employee to business owner
* Give you the necessary tools to start and expand your business
* Teach you how to move from an idea to a business plan
STEP 3: BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN THEORY AND THE ACTUAL BUSINESS PLAN
* After completing one of the workshop series, participate in Bridge Counseling.
* A business expert leads Bridge Counseling sessions which are organized in small groups with a
maximum of five participants.
* Attend counseling sessions as often as needed, free of charge. (Appointments are required.)
* A major benefit of Bridge Counseling is its ability to keep up your momentum as you work
to complete your business plan.
BRIDGE COUNSELING PROVIDES:
* Help in researching your business model, target market, competition, and other start-up issues.
* Assistance with pricing strategies and help in developing financial projections, such as sales, costs
and monthly cash flow
* Review and feedback of individual sections of your completed business plan
STEP 4: REGISTER FOR ONE-ON-ONE BUSINESS COUNSELING
* Once you've completed the first draft of your business plan, you're ready for individualized
business counseling.
* Be sure to bring your business plan to the first counseling session.
NEXT STEPS
*Go to Calendar of Events to find out when the two series of workshops and other events at
the WBDC are offered.
* Decide which workshop series to take and then
* Call 312-853-3477 ext. 0 or go on line to register.
