FastTrac GrowthVenture™
Classes begin Thursday, September 17, 2009 on the campus of Chatham University and runs through Nov. 19, 2009.
An entrepreneurial program that assists entrepreneurs in evaluating their current business framework and determine the changes needed to improve performance and grow the business.
We recommend that women business owners take FastTrac GrowthVenture in conjunction with our Mentoring for Women Business Owners program. Signing up for our Mentoring Program, in conjunction with FastTrac GrowthVenture, will enable business owners to work with a mentor on a one-on-one basis to implement the subjects taught in the FastTrac GrowthVenture program. (Mentoring program begins December 10, 2009.)
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. This FastTrac® NewVenture™ (GrowthVenture) program is part of FastTrac® LaunchPad, a joint initiative of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and the Deluxe Corporation Foundation. FastTrac® LaunchPad is being offered in response to the many workers who have lost their jobs and entrepreneurs leading businesses that are struggling due to the current economic environment.
Classes run for ten weeks, from 6:30pm - 9:30pm on the campus of Chatham University. Parking is free; no permit required. Class size is limited.
• Cost for enrolling in FastTrac GrowthVenture Program: $325 for 10 week program REGISTER ONLINE
•Cost for enrolling in Mentoring Program: $295 per 7 month program REGISTER ONLINE
• Cost for enrolling in FastTrac GrowthVenture Program & Mentoring :
$525 (cost savings of $95) REGISTER ONLINE for both programs.
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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.
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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
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Scholarships
Scholarships are offered through funds provided by 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.
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