FastTrac GrowthVenture™
Classes begin October 2, 2008 on the campus of Chatham University
An entrepreneurial program that assists entrepreneurs in evaluating their current business framework and determine the changes needed to improve performance and grow the business.
Chatham University is proud to present FastTrac GrowthVenture™ to women entrepreneurs in western Pennsylvania who are ready to grow their current businesses.
FastTrac is a nationally recognized training program that has assisted over 95,000 individuals across the country to start and/or grow businesses. FastTrac curricula are delivered locally by universities committed to the advancement of entrepreneurship, and are designed to be hands-on, practical courses in which participants develop or enhance their business plans.
The award-winning curriculum has been developed through a grant from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.
Classes run for eight Thursdays, beginning October 2nd to November 20th from 6:00pm - 9:00pm on the campus of Chatham University. Parking is free; no permit required. Class size is limited. Cost of the 8 week session is $395.00. The registation deadline is September 29th.
|
 |
FastTrac GrowthVenture™: The Big Picture
FastTrac® GrowthVenture™ focuses on helping entrepreneurs take a step back, look at the big picture, and work ON their business, not just IN their business. Through this program, you can strengthen your ability to make critical decisions and equip yourselves with the knowledge and skills needed to improve the performance of the business. With FastTrac® GrowthVenture™, you'll create a framework to determine the best way to grow your business.
The primary objectives are to help entrepreneurs effectively evaluate and improve their
- Overall business strategy and vision for the future.
- Ability to maintain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
- Changing role in managing the business.
- Focus and alignment of all aspects of the business.
FastTrac® GrowthVenture™ introduces practicing entrepreneurs to the key elements necessary to build the knowledge and skills necessary to continue to grow the business and be profitable. You will think strategically about your business. Developed by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, FastTrac® GrowthVenture™ focuses on the specific needs of these entrepreneurs:
- Thinking more strategically and critically in all aspects of the business.
- Focusing on the planning process-not a start-up plan-rather a business plan to grow the business and increase revenue and profitability.
- Reflecting on how they really want to manage the work, highlighting proven leadership strategies and providing insights into healthy organizational management.
- Structuring or operating the business with more efficiency.
- Realigning the strategic goals and the critical functions of the business.
- Outline specific action steps that will be taken to achieve their business' vision and goals.
The program is grounded in the proven, proprietary business-planning process used in FastTrac® programs. Through readings and research, activities and action steps, peer-to-peer interaction, coaching, and facilitated discussions, each participating entrepreneur will work on the key aspects of assessing where the business is now and exploring opportunities for sustainability and growth.
FastTrac® offers non-traditional, experiential learning with hands-on coaching sessions. Opportunities to network and learn from peers as well as the facilitator, business coach, and guest speakers-seasoned entrepreneurs and professionals who work with entrepreneurs-are a key part of the experience.
|
 |
FastTrac® GrowthVenture™: The course outline
Setting Direction
- Sizing Up Your Business
- Exploring Growth Opportunities
- Making Strategic Decisions
Taking Action
- Using Financial Tools
- Strengthening the Product/Service
- Seizing the Market
- Leading the Organization
- Managing Operations for Grow
- Charting Financial Performance
- Making It Happen
|
|
Scholarships
The FastTrac programs offered by the Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Chatham University are funded through grants from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and the Lois Tack Thompson Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation. Partial scholarships are offered through funds provided by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and the Bridgeway Capital.
A limited number of partial scholarships are available based upon need, and will be awarded to women who meet the following criteria: Financial Need, Demonstrated Business Concept, and Service to the Community.
Please compete the scholarship form and submit online. The Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Chatham University will be in contact, regarding your application.
The deadline for applications is September 15th, 2008.
|
|
