Forecasting, Planning & Budgeting
Important Motto: If you don't have a plan, plan to fail...
Developing a Business Plan
- The US Government's Small Business Association (SBA) has a wealth of information online
- Step-by-Step Instructions from SCORE.org:
- Web sites on Business Plans
Specialized Business Types
There are specialized loans made by the Small Business Administration. Various classifications apply:
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WBE (Woman Owned Business Enterprise)
- What is a WBE business?
Definition: A business that is at least 51% owned and operated by women of U.S. citizenship. - What are the advantages to being a WBE business?
- Corporations wishing to do business with Federal, State or Local agencies, or their prime contractors, are reviewed for the amount of business that they subcontract to certified Minority-Woman Owned Business Enterprise vendors. It makes sound business sense for corporations to actively seek and work with qualified WOBE firms to comply with requirement. Corporations dealing with private sector businesses and direct sales to consumers find that using WOBE vendors enhances their position as "good corporate citizens". The result is a positive influence on their marketing efforts. Likewise, as concerned corporations, their support encourages the growth of these minority firms. (FYI: Caucasions are not considered to by Minority Owned Business Enterprises; however, they are still considered Woman Owned Business Enterprises).
- Each state has its own WBE/Minority certification process.
- WBE Organizations:
- National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC) http://www.nwboc.org
- Women's Business Enterprise National Conference (WBENC) http://www.wbenc.org
- What is a WBE business?
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8(a) and Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) Enterprises
- Definition: Socially or economically disadvantaged applicants
Project Planning
- A simple scenario that can be applied to any situation: