Charlotte SCORE Meetup

Have you ever wanted to own your own business but don't know where to start?
In this webinar you'll learn the important steps you need to take to make critical decisions and choose the right business for you.

Is Starting a Business Right for You? SCORE virtual workshop

Session 1: Start-Up Basics – FREE SCORE Virtual Charlotte Workshop
This introductory workshop focuses on the Business Start-Up Basics of testing your business idea and identifying the key factors that influence start-up success. The Business Start-Up Basics Virtual Workshop provides you with an overview of the skills and tools you need when deciding to start a business.
In this session, you learn about the advantages and disadvantages of owning a business, the most profitable form for your business, and the fundamentals of formation, organization, marketing, cash flow and funding sources.

Presented by SCORE Charlotte Certified Mentors at no cost to you.

A strong business plan and marketing strategy are essential for turning an idea into a successful business. This webinar will guide participants through the key steps in developing a business concept, building a business model, and gathering the information needed to create a professional and viable business plan.
Participants will also gain an overview of how to develop an effective marketing plan, including defining products or services, identifying target customers, analyzing competitors, and selecting the right strategies to reach the marketplace.
During this session, you will learn how to:
· Develop and refine your business concept
· Understand the key elements of a business plan
· Identify customers and analyze competitors
· Collect the information needed to build a business plan
· Define your product or service and its benefits
· Identify and target your ideal customer
· Differentiate your business from competitors
· Choose marketing strategies and channels to reach customers
This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who want a practical framework for building a solid business foundation.

Starting a nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charity is not a decision to be taken
lightly. Public charities are subject to federal and state rules and regulations that
are not imposed on “for-profit” small businesses, including how they will generate
income. The purpose of this workshop is to help newly established and potential
nonprofit founders gather information needed to make an informed decision on
how to move their charitable missions forward.
What you’ll learn:
• The differences between a nonprofit, social enterprise, and for-profit business.
• The differences between a public charity and a private foundation.
• The 7 steps needed to form a 501(c)(3) anywhere in the U.S.
• How to determine which IRS 1023 application to use.
• Key activities to position your public charity for income and
sustainability.
• Activities that may risk your 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
• Nonprofit resources and support.