OUR APPROACH
-
We specialize in teaching the ins-and-outs of business in a digestible way that our members can connect and relate too.
In the words of Albert Einstein:
"If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough."
-
We support a wide array of unconventional entrepreneurs, from solopreneurs, creatives, 9-5 employees, and techies.
-
Many of our members may not have had traditional business education but have proven that they have the keen business savvy and an ability to manage the roller-coaster ride of life while creating their business dream.
OUR TRAINING
-
We utilize CO.STARTERS, a national and global cohort-based entrepreneurship training that equips aspiring business owners with the insights, relationships, and tools needed to turn ideas into action and turn a passion into a sustainable and thriving business.
-
For 9 weeks, we will meet every Thursday evening from 6p - 8:30p at 1601 North Calhoun Street, 21217 in the New Song Worship, and Arts Center.
-
You will receive over 50 hours of in-class and out of class instruction focused on testing to see if your business can reach the monetary goals that you set.
-
Our facilitators are experienced entrepreneurs and are knowledgeable about many aspects of the start-up journey.
-
Facilitators will guide you in completing your Business Canvas, shown below, and give you different perspectives to help you make your business decisions.
Topic and Description of Create U Network Business Academy
Unit 1: You and Your Team:
An entrepreneurial mindset is essential for running a successful
startup. You must have a diverse team with different types of people as your business grows.
Unit 2: Validating Your Business Idea:
Every good business idea solves a problem. In order to answer the
question, “what problem does your business solve? You must
understand the “why” behind your business, understand your
customer better and you must verify if your solution is even viable.
Unit 3: Messaging:
Marketing is all about the message. The message is a short
summary of your business’ main values
and what your company does.
Unit 4: Structuring and Protecting Your Business:
Your creative work is called intellectual property. Copyrights,
patents, and trademarks help protect your intellectual property.
Unit 5: Operations:
Startup costs are necessary to get your business off the ground.
To make a profit, your income should be more than your expenses.
Unit 7: Looking Toward Your Future:
Use a sales projection to help budget your business’ money and
plan accordingly. Net profit is your profit
after paying ALL your expenses.
Unit 6: Making Money:
Determine a good price for your product or service based on the 5
C’s of pricing: 1) cost; 2) competition; 3) customer; 4) company
objectives and; 6) channels of distribution.
Unit 8: Planning for the Future:
You must set big goals in order to grow your business. You might
need some seed capital (startup funding) to launch and keep your
business operating until you break-even.
Unit 9: Business Plans and Pitch Preparation:
Your business plan will help you create an effective strategy for
growth and help you attract investors, and always be prepared
to give an “elevator pitch.”
MEMBERSHIP PERKS
(Graduates of Business Class)
Personal CO.STARTERS manual
Business canvas advice
Access to an awesome community of
innovative Individuals
Connect to local and national opportunities through networking partners.
Professional headshots
Business guidance from local business leaders
Promotion of personal business through networks
Pitch Practice
Access to advanced classes and other business-building resources
THE COST
The cost of the nine week program is $200. For participants living in zip code 21217, the cost is $150.00. Scholarships are also available for persons who can demonstrate financial hardship. Please complete the registration form to apply for a position in our Spring 2024 class.