In its seventh successful year, StartSMART, this Signature Program is offered once a year for entrepreneurs and business owners by The University of Georgia's Small Business Development Center in Columbus and by Statewide Sponsor, Wells Fargo. StartSMART will kick-off February 17th and run thru April 7th on Fridays.
 
This program is designed for the following entrepreneurs and business owners:
 
- Those who have been in business for less than two years

- Or on the brink of opening their company

- Or businesses that are considering opening a different location.

- Or opening a franchise

- Or looking to acquire funding and needs to develop a business plan
 
StartSMART offers a peer learning environment and provides in-depth information on the strategic planning process, marketing research, cash flow statement analysis, and building a strong business from the beginning. StartSMART is facilitated by specially trained UGA facilitators.
 
Program Outline

1. Foundations for a Successful Business

2. Marketing Research & Analysis

3. Capturing the Market

4. Efficient Operations

5. Financial Foundations

6. Financial Plan

7. Bringing It All Together

8. Implementing and Presenting the Plan
 
The StartSMART will be held February 17th through April 7th and it will consist of eight weekly sessions for three hours held on Fridays. Applications are reviewed and approved to ensure competitive conflicts are minimized and requirements are met. You MUST be accepted before you can purchase a seat in the program. Seating is limited. Additional info and online application is available at https://www.georgiasbdc.org/2017-sbdc-startsmart-columbus/
 
Enrollment: Tuition is $495 - Tuition includes the textbook, materials, continental breakfast each class and a certificate of completion from The University of Georgia for all graduates.