Getting Started

Once you have selected a business opportunity that fits your own unique skills, talents and interests you should attend a free SE orientation session. Orientations are held at Community Futures every second Wednesday and run from 9:30AM - 11:00AM. Register online or call Community Futures at 364-2595 ext 24 to register for our next session.

The orientation session will explore what the Self Employment Assistance Benefit and Community Futures have to offer. You will learn what is required to start a business and how to complete a business plan. You will also learn what kinds of financing options are available to your business and learn more about courses we offer to assist you in your endeavors.

Creating a business plan is a key part of starting a business and a requirement of the SE Program. If your business requires financial assistance your business plan is the map of your operations. No lending institution will grant a loan without this important document. Your business plan will identify the strengths and weaknesses of your proposed business. 9 out of 10 businesses without a business plan fail. 7 out of 10 businesses with a business plan succeed!

For a head-start on creating a business plan you may want to print out our sample Business Plan document and examples. This is the same document given to entrepreneurs at the orientation session. You can view it online, or download the PDF version (600Kb) to print out at home.