Write a Business Plan You'll Actually Use

Do you have a business plan you’ve written and never used, gathering dust in the corner of your office or lost on your hard drive? Or does the idea of writing a business plan make you want to toss your notebook full of business ideas? Either way, this three-hour live, in-person workshop will walk you through the process of creating a business plan you will actually use. The interactive session will guide participants through the process of creating a working document that will become a flexible, grow-with-you business plan. A workbook for the session will be provided, complete with templates, space to take notes, and time to work out your plan.

Register for Write a Business Plan You'll Actually Use

The session will cover competitive analysis, forecasting, getting a clear view of your business model, anticipating costs, and more. Also covered: is what you need to be sure to include in your plan if you are planning to pitch to investors. Time for Q&A is built into the session, and questions are encouraged. Participants will leave with a toolkit full of resources, including templates, worksheets, and links. If you run out of time to finish your plan during the session, the resources provided will help you finish on your own.

By the end of class, you’ll have (or be well on your way to having) a simple, powerful plan designed to grow with your organization. Small business owners are encouraged to send key employees if they are unable to attend themselves.

What To Expect:

Participants will be able to speak and interact with the instructor and others. There will be ample time for Q&A and plenty of group discussion during the session as well. There will be two breaks to allow for checking your email, grabbing a cup of coffee, etc.

Course Material Downloads:

• Follow-along workbook to take notes, follow instructions, and complete exercises during the session.
• Presentation slides and exercises will be provided to all participants.
• Toolkit - a collection of templates, forms, worksheets, and other resources will be available at the end of the class. It is to provide additional information and support as you continue on the path to starting your business.

Who Should Attend:

• Anyone interested in starting a new business
• Business owners looking to rebuild or revamp, post-COVID
• Freelancers, Designers & Writers wanting to launch their brand
• Those in the process of starting a business who may be stalled or stuck
• All are welcome - and if you are forming a partnership, we encourage all parties to attend

This workshop is eligible for the City of Austin Small Business Skills Certificate program. Participants who complete six courses in the program are recognized in an awards ceremony at City Hall with other local business and community leaders.

The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request - including translation and interpretation services. For assistance, please contact the Economic Development Department at 512-974-7819. The City receives and accepts Video Relay Service (VRS) calls from people who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing through Relay Texas 7-1-1.