Whether you are a new business (in business 2 years or less), or are still in the planning phase, building a business takes the right tools—and a lot of hard work. SBDC StartSmart will equip you to be successful! 

SBDC StartSmart helps attendees to: 

• Evaluate & refine your business concept 
• Improve your knowledge of business concepts 
• Research markets and competition 
• Develop a financial forecast to improve chances of success 
• Develop a thorough, practical business plan 
• On-going consulting from SBDC professionals keeps you on track 

SBDC StartSmart was developed by the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center. This year’s program is tailored to being held virtually to facilitate virtual discussion, class engagement, & mastery of content. Participation in StartSmart will also allow access to online business planning software. The program is facilitated by specially trained SBDC consultants and a long-term relationship with the SBDC and follow-up consulting is available and encouraged. 

Owning your own business is the American dream. Building it to withstand the test of time requires a unique set of tools.  SBDC StartSmart™ provides the resources, support, and motivation to put your dream within reach. 

SBDC StartSmart™ provides the tools to: 

• Evaluate your concept and develop plans to move forward. 
• Improve knowledge of business fundamentals. 
• Build an infrastructure for business operations and processes. 

SBDC StartSmart graduates acquire: 

• An actionable business plan and access to business planning software 
• Access to financial and business resources. 
• A network of entrepreneurial peers and professionals. 

In this multi-session program, learn to plan and analyze your vision by creating a thoroughly researched and tested business plan. All sessions are led by experienced SBDC facilitators who help create a unique and powerful learning experience. 

• Designed specifically for new business owners (2 years in business or less)and serious entrepreneurs ready to start a business, SBDC StartSmart provides the resources and support to put your dreams within reach.StartSmart will help you build a business for today’s challenging times!
• This year’s StartSMART will be held entirely virtually, so participants are expected to have access to stable internet and a device with microphone and webcam capabilities.
• While StartSmart is entirely virtual, we recommend participating in the program hosted by the center closest to your business. This facilitates networking with other local new business owners, as well as professional business contacts in your community. Not to mention, a headstart on building a strong relationship with a business consultant in your service area!
• To get the ball rolling, please complete an application or contact your local SBDC office.