ACTION 1: Develop a Business Plan
A business plan is critical for any entrepreneur. Your business plan is the “roadmap” for your how you will start and manage your small business. As you write your business plan, you will analyze a variety of elements to include: your product or service, marketing, financing and operations. A business plan is not only important for when you start, but also as your business begins to grow and develop.
BUSINESS PLAN ASSISTANCE FOR NORFOLK ENTEREPRENEURS
Local Workshops:
- Norfolk’s Small Business Initiative (SBI) is designed to assist you with achieving success at every stage of business. From business planning, to online marketing, financing, government contracting and networking. We are here to help you start and grow a successful company through training, one-on-one consultations, networking and empowerment events. See our Calendar for upcoming events. If you are one who enjoys connecting with other business leaders, or your inspired by the stories of other entrepreneurs then the Small Business Initiative is just the resource you need to grow your company. Our recent seminar Series included a focus onAchieving Financial Success through managing cash flow, bookkeeping, tax planning and funding resources for your business. Our Spring Online Marketing series addressed social media marketing, content development and search engine optimization for Business.
- Norfolk’s award-winning BIZ Café series designed to help you learn from business mentors and local experts. The BIZ Café is offered at various neighborhoods ensuring that all small business owners can participate and gain new business insight. Business owners often ask about how to break into government contracting, which most often requires certifications. The SBI promotes opportunities for businesses to network and become certified in state and federal contracting requirements.
Online:
- VAstartup.org offers an online interactive tool in the form of a downloadable CD to help you write your business plan. Users are required to register
- US SBA: the Small Business Administration offers a “Build Your Business Plan, which requires registration.
Department of Development: Contact us for any questions you may have 757-664-4338 and visit our website norfolkdevelopment.com for special business incentives.