Saturday, May 31, 2025

Benny the Beaver and the Boy Scout Motto - A Children's Story

Benny the Beaver and the Boy Scout Motto

By Bill Conley

Moral to the Story:
Being prepared isn’t just for scouts—it’s for everyone who wants to handle life with wisdom and care.
Thinking ahead helps us avoid problems and stay calm when surprises come our way.
From packing a snack to remembering your raincoat, being ready shows responsibility and respect.
Preparedness isn’t about fear—it’s about being smart, steady, and ready for anything.

Benny the Beaver lived by the river in a cozy wooden home made of sticks and mud. He was a happy little beaver with shiny teeth, big brown eyes, and a long flat tail. Benny loved swimming, building things, and most of all—being ready.

Benny always thought ahead. He packed snacks when he got hungry. He carried an extra sweater when it got cold. He kept a little bag with helpful things like string, bandages, a flashlight, and even a little leaf umbrella.

His friends thought it was funny.

“Why do you carry so much stuff?” asked Max the Mink one morning.

“Because you never know what might happen!” Benny said with a smile.

“But it’s sunny today,” said Ellie the Squirrel. “You don’t need an umbrella!”

Benny just smiled and said, “I like to be prepared!”

That day, the forest friends were going on a nature walk to Willow Hill. Benny, Max, Ellie, and Charlie the Chick all lined up at the big tree where the path began.

“Let’s go!” said Charlie. “I’m ready to fly!”

“I’m ready to run!” said Ellie.

“I’m ready to race!” said Max.

“I’m ready too,” said Benny, patting his backpack.

They walked through the tall grass, under leafy trees, and past singing birds. They stopped to look at ladybugs and butterflies. They picked wild berries and made leaf hats for fun.

But as they climbed higher toward Willow Hill, the sky started to change.

“Uh-oh,” said Charlie. “Is it getting darker?”

A big wind blew through the trees, and little raindrops began to fall.

“Oh no!” said Ellie. “It’s raining!”

“I didn’t bring anything,” said Max. “I’m going to get all wet!”

Benny quickly opened his leaf umbrella. “Don’t worry! I brought enough to share!”

He pulled out a little rain cape and gave it to Ellie. He handed Max a small towel. He even gave Charlie a dry leaf to sit under while they waited.

“Wow, Benny,” said Max. “You saved us!”

“You’re always ready,” said Ellie. “How do you do that?”

Benny smiled. “I think ahead. I try to be prepared—just like the Boy Scout motto!”

“What’s a motto?” asked Charlie.

“It’s something you remember that helps you do the right thing,” Benny said. “And the Boy Scout motto is: ‘Always be prepared!’”

“Ohhh,” said Ellie. “That’s smart.”

The rain stopped after a little while. The sun peeked out again, and the forest looked sparkly and fresh.

“Let’s keep going!” said Benny.

They walked to the very top of Willow Hill and found a big, smooth rock to sit on. From up high, they could see the river, the trees, and the rainbow shining in the sky.

“I’m glad we came,” said Charlie.

“Me too,” said Max. “Even if we got wet.”

“Next time,” said Ellie, “I’m going to bring my own backpack like Benny!”

Benny clapped his paws. “That’s a great idea!”

They all smiled and shared a snack from Benny’s bag—crunchy pine nuts, sweet berries, and even a little honey stick.

“I didn’t think about the rain,” said Max.

“Me neither,” said Ellie.

“That’s okay,” Benny said gently. “We learn by living. Next time, you’ll be ready.”

“Will you teach us how to pack?” asked Charlie.

“Yes!” said Benny. “We’ll make a list together. We can call it the Be Ready Team!”

Everyone cheered. “Yay! Be Ready Team!”

As the sun went down, they made their way back home. The trail was a little muddy, but Benny had extra socks for Max and a soft cloth to clean Charlie’s feet.

When they got to Benny’s house, he waved goodbye to his friends and went inside. He dried off his backpack, folded his rain cape, and put everything back in its place.

Then he whispered to himself, “Being prepared helps me help others. That’s what makes me happy.”

Benny climbed into his warm, soft bed, curled up with his tail, and smiled.

He was ready for tomorrow—no matter what it might bring.

Moral to the Story Poem:
Pack a snack and pack a hat,
Bring a light and things like that.
When you think ahead and plan each day,
You’re ready for fun in every way!

Moral to the Story Poem:
Being prepared helps you stay safe and strong,
It helps you fix things when something goes wrong.
It’s not just for scouts or when you go play—
It’s smart to be ready every single day.

 

  

Friday, May 30, 2025

Tilly the Turtle Learns to Be on Time - A Children's Story

Tilly the Turtle Learns to Be on Time

By Bill Conley

Moral to the Story:
When we show up on time, it tells others they are important to us.
It means we care about their time, their plans, and their feelings.
Being late, even just a little, can cause our friends to feel forgotten or frustrated.
But when we plan ahead and make the effort to be ready, we build trust, kindness, and strong friendships that last.

Tilly the Turtle lived in a shady spot near Maple Pond, where tall grass tickled the water and dragonflies zipped through the air. She was a kind turtle, with a big round shell, curious eyes, and a gentle heart.

Tilly loved many things—napping in the sun, munching clover, floating on her back, and talking with her friends. But there was one thing Tilly wasn’t very good at…

She was almost always late.

When her friends planned a picnic, Tilly showed up after the last bite.
When they played tag, Tilly arrived after the game was over.
And when Benny the Beaver built a raft at 10 o’clock sharp—Tilly came at 11.

“Sorry,” she would say with a little shrug, “I guess I took too long!”

Her friends still liked her. But more and more, they were starting to feel frustrated.

One sunny morning, Ellie the Squirrel had exciting news.

“Let’s all meet at Daisy Hill at 3:00,” she said. “There’s going to be a butterfly parade! They fly through once a year!”

“Wow!” said Max the Mink.

“Beautiful!” chirped Charlie the Chick.

“I’ll be there!” said Tilly with a happy nod.

That afternoon, Max arrived early with a blanket. Charlie brought a berry snack. Ellie bounced in with her camera.

The clock ticked.

3:00 came. No Tilly.

3:10 came. Still no Tilly.

At 3:15, the butterflies arrived—hundreds of them, big and small, their wings dancing in the light like flower petals in the wind.

“It’s starting!” said Ellie.

“It’s beautiful!” said Charlie.

At 3:25, Tilly slowly appeared over the hill.

“Am I late?” she asked.

Everyone turned.

“The butterflies already passed,” Ellie said gently.

“Oh no,” Tilly sighed. “I missed it.”

The friends packed up their things. Nobody was mad—but they were sad.

As they walked home, Max spoke up. “Tilly, we love you, but… it’s hard when you’re always late.”

Charlie nodded. “We wait and wait, and sometimes we miss things.”

Tilly’s heart sank. She never meant to make anyone sad.

That evening, she sat by the pond, staring at her reflection. “I didn’t mean to be late. I just… took my time like always.”

A breeze whispered through the trees.

She thought about her friends. She thought about the butterflies. She thought about how she felt when she missed out.

“I want to do better,” she whispered.

The next day, Tilly had an idea. She would practice being early—just once—to see how it felt.

She got up early. She packed her things the night before. She even practiced walking a little faster.

Ellie had invited everyone to a pancake breakfast at 8:00 a.m.

Tilly arrived at 7:45.

“You’re early!” Ellie gasped.

“I wanted to surprise you,” Tilly said, smiling.

“You did!” Ellie cheered.

Max and Charlie arrived soon after, and the group laughed, ate pancakes, and played games all morning.

Tilly had never had so much fun—not just because she was there for all of it, but because her friends were so happy to see her on time.

From that moment on, Tilly started planning ahead.

She still moved slowly—because she was a turtle—but she left earlier, got ready sooner, and set little reminders.

One day, Max planned a race at the creek.

“Let’s meet at 2:00,” he said. “I need help setting up the cones.”

Tilly got there at 1:55, ready to help.

“You’re amazing!” Max said.

The next day, Charlie invited everyone to a music concert under the trees at 6:00.

Tilly was there at 5:50, with her leaf blanket already spread out.

“Tilly’s always on time now!” said Charlie. “We can count on her!”

Tilly beamed. She had learned something big: Being on time was more than just a rule—it was a way to show love and respect.

She didn’t want to miss moments anymore. She didn’t want her friends to wait. She didn’t want to feel left out.

And now, she didn’t.

Even though she was slow, she had learned how to plan ahead and be prepared.

And that made all the difference.

Moral to the Story Poem:
Be on time and don’t delay,
Plan ahead and start your day.
When you're early, smiles will grow—
That’s how love and kindness show!

Thursday, May 29, 2025

About your instructor Bill Conley

 

About Bill Conley—Your Instructor and Guide

Bill Conley is a seasoned entrepreneur, certified life coach, published author, and passionate educator with decades of real-world experience in starting, building, and selling multiple businesses. He officially retired from daily operations at age 49, but his drive to help others achieve their potential has never slowed down.

Over the course of his career, Bill has

  • Founded, scaled, and sold multiple successful companies in retail, tech, real estate, marketing, and wellness.
  • Built and managed high-performing sales teams and vendor partnerships.
  • Mentored dozens of aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals.
  • Served as a business strategist and educator in adult learning programs.
  • Authored 10+ books on personal development, sales, and faith.
  • Volunteered with churches, municipalities, and nonprofits to empower communities.

Bill’s teaching style is practical, hands-on, and deeply personal.  He doesn’t teach fluff—he teaches what works. If you want to succeed in sales, learn from someone who’s done it all—and wants to help you do it too.


📧 Contact Bill Conley directly to enroll in the course, book a workshop, or schedule a consultation:

coachbillconley@gmail.com

Small Business Startup, Growth and Development with Bio and Syllabus

Small Business Startup, Growth, and Development with Bio and Syllabus

Instructor: Bill Conley
Email: coachbillconley@gmail.com
Course Duration: 10 Classes (1 to 1.25 hours each)

Instructor Background:
Bill Conley was born in 1957 and raised in Minnesota. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He began his career in straight-commission sales with Century Manufacturing, taking his territory from 50th to 2nd place in just one year. In 1981, he moved to Seattle and joined Benchmark Computer Systems, where he developed his own company-wide training program by shadowing every department to fully understand business operations. He outperformed eight other salespeople combined in his first year.

Bill went on to become the top salesperson at Datacore, another computer sales company, before taking a hiatus to travel Europe. Upon returning, he founded Information Systems International, a computer telemarketing company. He later co-founded Computex Systems Corporation, a highly successful Hewlett-Packard resale firm that expanded through multiple acquisitions and grew to include 15 salespeople, a 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse, engineers, and administrative staff.

After selling his share of Computex in 1995, he founded US Computer Corporation, achieving $9 million in sales and nearly $3 million in profit in its first year. He sold the company in 1998, then founded High Tech Service Solutions, which he ran until 2006 before selling it to his employees. Following that, Bill opened and operated a smoothie franchise, then began investing in real estate. His projects included two memory care centers, three senior housing condominiums, an office building, and two large apartment complexes. Over 30 years, he has flipped more than 20 homes and managed rental properties, including a small apartment complex.

Bill has never taken a salary and has always worked on commission or profit-sharing from companies he owned.

Course Overview:
This 10-session course provides a complete roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to start and grow a small business. Whether product-based or service-driven, students will learn how to clarify their business vision, build an actionable plan, understand legal and financial responsibilities, and create a compelling brand.

What Students Will Learn:

  • The difference between product and service businesses
  • How to write a mission statement and define your target market
  • How to identify vendors, source labor, and manage inventory
  • Marketing strategies on any budget
  • Business formation, taxes, licensing, and insurance
  • Customer service, vendor communication, and employee policies
  • Brand identity and positioning
  • Sales processes and pricing models
  • Office setup, essential software, and database management
  • How to create and present a complete business plan

Course Format:

  • Weekly 60–75 minute sessions
  • Interactive lectures, group discussion, and real-world examples
  • In-class exercises and take-home assignments
  • Final project: presentation of a full business startup plan

Target Audience:

  • First-time entrepreneurs and startup founders
  • Career changers ready to work for themselves
  • Side-hustlers and creatives wanting to formalize their business
  • Anyone with a product, service, or idea ready to bring to life

Course Outcomes: By the end of the course, students will:

  • Walk away with a personalized business plan
  • Understand how to launch, manage, and grow their company
  • Be equipped with tools, templates, and next steps for success
  • Feel confident and ready to take the next entrepreneurial leap

To Register or Learn More:
Email Bill Conley directly at coachbillconley@gmail.com


Class Schedule and Topics

Class 1: Purpose, Motivation, and Mission
Goals:

  • Understand personal motivation
  • Define a mission statement
  • Clarify the business idea and customer base Topics:
  • Introductions and abstract: Why do you want to start a business?
  • Difference between Product-based and Service-based businesses
  • Definitions of Motive and Purpose
  • Mission Statement: Components and Importance
  • Defining target product or service
  • Identifying your target market (Who, Where, How) Activities:
  • Write personal motivation abstract
  • Draft mission statement
  • Class discussion and whiteboard categorization

Class 2: Sourcing and Funding
Goals:

  • Identify suppliers or labor sources
  • Understand funding options
  • Begin thinking about cash flow Topics:
  • Supplier identification for products (internet, referrals, etc.)
  • Labor sourcing for services (ads, job fairs, referrals)
  • 11 sources of startup funding
  • Determining startup costs
  • Cash Flow: cash in, cash out, timeline to profitability
  • Example: Starting a small computer company

Class 3: Setup and Financial Planning
Goals:

  • Complete funding review
  • Understand startup costs and projections
  • Prepare for formal business setup Topics:
  • Finalize funding strategies
  • Cash flow management
  • Decision checklist for launching
  • Incorporation, tax ID, city/state paperwork

Class 4: Marketing Basics
Goals:

  • Understand basic marketing materials and strategies Topics:
  • Marketing collateral: letters, one-sheets, brochures
  • Methods: telemarketing, mail, door-to-door, ads, internet, email, flyers, referrals, trade shows
  • Pros and cons of each method

Class 5: Making the Sale and Managing Transactions
Goals:

  • Learn pricing strategies
  • Understand the sales process Topics:
  • Pricing formulas (products/services)
  • Sale closure: contracts, invoices, terms
  • Accounting entries, purchase agreements

Class 6: Inventory and Order Management
Goals:

  • Understand inventory purchasing and tracking Topics:
  • Purchase orders, receiving, warehousing
  • Inventory logs, vendor coordination

Class 7: Office Setup and Tools
Goals:

  • Learn essential tech tools for startup success Topics:
  • Accounting software, CRMs, communication systems
  • Fax usage, email, data capture methods

Class 8: Telemarketing and Communication
Goals:

  • Master phone-based outreach and follow-up Topics:
  • Effective openings, voice tone, messaging
  • Listening cues, politeness, closing skills

Class 9: Management 101 – Customers, Vendors, Employees
Goals:

  • Learn business relationship management Topics:
  • Customer support, returns, vendor issues, freight
  • Employee onboarding, contracts, benefits, payroll, reviews

Class 10: Final Review and Test
Goals:

  • Review core material
  • Present business plans
  • Evaluate knowledge retention Activities:
  • Recap and open Q&A
  • Final quiz (15–20 questions)
  • Group feedback and next steps

 

Small Business Startup, Growth and Development Class Material

 


Small Business Startup, Growth, and Development

Course Description:
This comprehensive 10-session course is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who are ready to turn their ideas into fully formed business ventures. Whether you're starting a product-based or service-based company, this class provides the foundational knowledge and hands-on tools needed to launch and grow a successful small business.

Students will explore every stage of business development—from identifying motivation and drafting a mission statement to managing cash flow, selecting vendors, setting prices, and creating an effective marketing strategy. Legal considerations, customer relations, branding, and employee management are also covered in depth.

By the end of the course, students will present a clear business plan, complete with brand positioning, marketing approach, financial planning, and operational structure.

Key Topics Include:

·         Motivation, purpose, and mission statement creation

·         Product vs. service business models

·         Target market identification and customer outreach

·         Vendor sourcing and supply chain basics

·         Marketing tools, messaging, and outreach strategies

·         Sales, pricing models, and inventory management

·         Legal structures, licensing, and compliance

·         Office setup, essential software, and customer database systems

·         Managing customer, vendor, and employee relationships

·         Branding, positioning, and creating a professional business image

Course Outcomes:
Students will walk away with a practical, personalized business plan, a strong understanding of the startup process, and the confidence to take action on their entrepreneurial goals.

Ideal For:

·         Entrepreneurs launching a new business

·         Professionals exploring self-employment

·         Creatives turning a passion into a product or service

·         Anyone interested in learning how to build a business from the ground up

Format: 10 in-person or virtual sessions, each 60–75 minutes long
Includes: Interactive lectures, group discussions, templates, quizzes, and a final business presentation
Instructor: Bill Conley, experienced entrepreneur and business coach

Small Business Startup, Growth and Development

Course Duration: 10 Classes (1 to 1.25 hours each)


Class 1: The Spark Behind the Startup – Purpose, Product, and People

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Discover individual motivation for starting a business.
  • Understand the difference between product- and service-based businesses.
  • Clarify business purpose and mission.
  • Begin identifying target offerings and target markets.
  • Foster a collaborative, open-discussion environment.

Class Outline:

1.     Opening Discussion: “Why Are You Here?” (10 minutes)

o    Ask each student to share their name and what kind of business they want to start.

o    List each business on the whiteboard under one of two categories:

§  Product-based

§  Service-based

o    Use this visual categorization to introduce the first key distinction in business models.

2.     Abstract Writing: Discovering Motivation (10–15 minutes)

o    Ask students to write a short abstract (5–8 sentences) describing:

§  Why they want to start a business.

§  What need they believe they are fulfilling.

§  What drives them personally to become an entrepreneur.

o    Define and distinguish:

§  Motive: The reason that pushes you to act.

§  Purpose: The result or impact you want to create.

o    Encourage volunteers to share their responses aloud.

3.     The Purpose of This Course (5 minutes)

o    Share your purpose for creating the course:

§  “To help aspiring entrepreneurs discover, define, and design a strategic plan for launching and growing their small business—whether product or service-based.”

o    Emphasize that this course is both personal and practical.

4.     What Is a Mission Statement? (10 minutes)

o    Define “Mission” and “Statement.”

o    Share your mission statement and analyze it:

§  Why each word matters.

§  How it aligns with motive and purpose.

o    Activity: Draft a mission statement using this framework:

§  “My mission is to [what you do] for [who you serve] so that [desired outcome].”

o    Have 2–3 students share their drafts.

5.     Defining Your Offering: Product vs. Service (10 minutes)

o    Revisit the whiteboard.

o    Have students clarify:

§  What exactly are they selling?

§  Is it a tangible product or a human-driven service?

o    Group Activity:

§  Discuss inventory costs for products.

§  Discuss scalability for services.

§  Examples of turning services into products (e.g., packaged consulting).

6.     Defining Your Target Market (15 minutes)

o    Write these questions on the board:

§  Who are your customers?

§  Where do you find them?

§  How do you reach them?

o    Group brainstorming session.

o    Prompt: “Be as specific as possible. Your business isn't for everyone.”

o    Use real-world comparisons (e.g., niche skincare vs. generic pharmacy products).

7.     Wrap-Up & Open Forum (10 minutes)

o    Ask: “What is one takeaway from today’s session?”

o    Ask: “What do you hope to get out of the next class?”

o    Encourage refinement of mission statement and motivation write-up at home.

Homework for Class #2:

  • Finalize and bring your mission statement.
  • Be ready to explain your offering in one sentence (product or service).
  • Interview one person in your target market and ask what problem they need solved related to your idea.

Class 1 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What motivated you to consider starting a business?

2.     How would you describe your business idea in one sentence?

3.     Is your business product- or service-based? Explain.

4.     Who is your ideal customer and why?

5.     What does your mission statement say about your goals?

6.     Why is it important to know the purpose behind your business?

7.     What difference does it make to know whether your business is product or service based?

8.     Can you list three benefits your business offers to customers?

9.     What excites you most about becoming an entrepreneur?

10.                        What challenges do you foresee in defining your target market?


Class 1 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     Which of the following best defines "motive"?

o    a) A financial statement

o    b) The reason that pushes you to act

o    c) A marketing plan

o    d) A mission statement

o    Answer: b

2.     A mission statement should include:

o    a) Your competitors’ weaknesses

o    b) Legal disclaimers

o    c) Your purpose and who you serve

o    d) Your personal goals unrelated to business

o    Answer: c

3.     A product-based business:

o    a) Only sells online

o    b) Involves physical inventory

o    c) Does not require startup capital

o    d) Cannot be scaled

o    Answer: b

4.     A service-based business:

o    a) Only sells physical goods

o    b) Requires no labor

o    c) Is not profitable

o    d) Involves time and skills as the product

o    Answer: d

5.     Purpose is defined as:

o    a) An inventory tool

o    b) The result or impact you want to create

o    c) A trademark

o    d) A legal document

o    Answer: b

Short Answer: 6. In your own words, define motivation in a business context. 7. Write your draft mission statement. 8. Name three types of service-based businesses. 9. What are two ways you can identify your target market? 10. Explain the difference between motive and purpose.

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. If someone says their business idea is “helping others,” what would you ask to help clarify their mission? 12. Give an example of a product-based business and what it sells. 13. Give an example of a service-based business and what it offers. 14. If your target market is “busy moms,” where might you find them? 15. How would a clear mission statement help you in talking to investors?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. True or False: A mission statement is only useful for customers. (False) 17. Fill in the blank: Your ______ helps define who your product or service is for. (target market) 18. True or False: Every business should serve everyone. (False) 19. Fill in the blank: One reason for writing an abstract is to better understand your own ______. (motivation) 20. True or False: The difference between a product and a service is that one is tangible and one is not. (True)

Class 2: Building the Foundation – Supply Chain, Vendors, and Setup

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand supply chain fundamentals for both products and services.
  • Identify sources for products, vendors, or labor.
  • Begin conceptualizing the operational side of the business.
  • Understand how expectations and feasibility align.

Class Outline:

1.     Review of Day 1 (10 minutes)

o    Revisit key concepts: motive, purpose, mission, product/service distinction, target market.

o    Ask a few students to share:

§  Their refined mission statement.

§  Their “target market interview” results.

2.     What is a Supply Chain? (10 minutes)

o    Define a supply chain:

§  For products: sourcing, manufacturing, warehousing, fulfillment.

§  For services: tools, training, staffing, and delivery process.

o    Diagram both supply chains on the board.

3.     Vendor & Labor Discovery (15 minutes)

o    Vendors: Where are you sourcing your products or tools? Who are your wholesalers or partners?

o    Labor: If you need help (employees, freelancers), where will you find them?

§  Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, Indeed, or local job boards.

§  Consider apprentices, part-time help, family.

o    Activity: Small groups brainstorm potential vendors or labor solutions based on their specific business idea. Share findings with the class.

4.     Business Formation Basics (20 minutes)

o    Give a simplified overview of what it takes to start a business:

§  Choosing a name

§  Registering your business (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)

§  Getting a business license

§  Opening a business bank account

§  Considering insurance and legal protection

§  Basics of bookkeeping

o    Provide a handout or worksheet: “Startup Checklist.”

5.     Setting Expectations & Next Steps (10 minutes)

o    Reiterate that the goal isn’t perfection—it’s clarity and progress.

o    Encourage collaboration outside of class.

o    Ask again: “What do you hope to learn next?”

Homework for Class #3:

  • Begin estimating your startup costs.
  • Identify at least 3 potential vendors or labor sources.
  • Draft your “business launch checklist” based on today’s discussion.

Class 2 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What is a supply chain and why is it important?

2.     What are two key differences between a product and service supply chain?

3.     Name three ways to find reliable vendors.

4.     Name three sources of labor for service-based businesses.

5.     Why is it important to establish relationships with your vendors?

6.     What legal steps are required to form a business?

7.     Why is it helpful to use a startup checklist?

8.     What are some reasons to get a business bank account separate from your personal account?

9.     What kind of insurance might a small business need?

10.                        What challenges might arise from not understanding your supply chain?


Class 2 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     A supply chain includes all of the following except:

o    a) Manufacturing

o    b) Delivery

o    c) Product returns

o    d) Tax audits

o    Answer: d

2.     One place to find freelancers for your business is:

o    a) Craigslist

o    b) Upwork

o    c) Facebook Marketplace

o    d) Yelp

o    Answer: b

3.     Why do businesses form an LLC?

o    a) To hire employees

o    b) To reduce advertising costs

o    c) To protect personal liability

o    d) To increase shipping speed

o    Answer: c

4.     Which of the following is NOT a recommended labor source?

o    a) Technical college

o    b) Professional referral

o    c) Word of mouth

o    d) Personal Facebook rant

o    Answer: d

5.     A business license is required:

o    a) Only for corporations

o    b) If you want to hire someone

o    c) To operate legally in your local area

o    d) Only if you earn over $50,000

o    Answer: c

Short Answer: 6. Define a supply chain in your own words. 7. List two websites where you could find freelance labor. 8. What are three types of vendor directories or resources? 9. Why should a business separate personal and business bank accounts? 10. Name two legal protections a business should consider early on.

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. You need a vendor for custom packaging. What steps would you take to find one? 12. A freelancer doesn't complete your project on time. How do you handle it? 13. Describe a problem that might occur if your supply chain is not well planned. 14. You’re forming an LLC. What paperwork will you likely need? 15. Why is it important to plan for labor before you get customers?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: A ______ is a formal list of tasks and documents needed to launch your business. (startup checklist) 17. True or False: The same supply chain applies to all businesses. (False) 18. Fill in the blank: A business account helps track ______ separately from personal spending. (expenses) 19. True or False: Insurance is only necessary for product-based businesses. (False) 20. Fill in the blank: A service-based business often requires reliable ______ to deliver value. (labor)

Class 3: Financial Planning, Cash Flow, and Funding Sources

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand diverse funding options for launching a business.
  • Calculate startup costs and estimate cash flow.
  • Make informed financial decisions regarding initial setup.
  • Learn foundational financial terminology and practices.

Class Outline:

1.     Review of Day 2 (10 minutes)

o    Recap vendor and labor sourcing, supply chain, business formation basics.

o    Ask a few students to share their startup checklist and identified vendors.

2.     Exploring Funding Options (15 minutes)

o    Review and expand on 11 funding sources:

§  Bank loans (collateral, credit lines)

§  Credit cards (short-term usage)

§  Loans from friends/family (personal guarantees)

§  Venture capital

§  Wealthy individuals (donations or gifts)

§  Corporate stock issuance (equity options, valuation concerns)

§  Factoring companies (receivables-based funding)

§  Vendor credit/financing

§  Brokering deals (middle-man model)

§  Service-only startups (labor only, no capital)

§  Contract-based projects (staged payments, deposits)

o    Discussion: Why would someone invest in your business?

3.     Determining Startup Capital Needs (15 minutes)

o    Discuss cost projection categories:

§  Salaries

§  Cost of goods sold (COGS)

§  Rent and utilities

§  Shipping

§  Insurance

§  Taxes

§  Technology and equipment

o    Activity: Draft a list of startup expenses for your business.

4.     Understanding Cash Flow (15 minutes)

o    Define cash flow: cash in vs. cash out = net cash available

o    Importance of managing accounts receivable and payable

o    Break-even point: How long until positive cash flow?

o    Use example: launching a computer company

§  Rent vs. home-based

§  Initial equipment costs

§  Inventory and client/vendor database

5.     Operational Decision-Making (10 minutes)

o    Where will your business be located?

o    What tools or tech are essential from day one?

o    What are realistic income timelines?

o    How will you manage your financial records?

Homework for Class #4:

  • Finalize your projected startup costs.
  • Estimate how long it will take your business to become cash flow positive.
  • Prepare a list of your top three funding options with pros/cons for each.

Class 3 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What are three funding options that don’t involve a bank?

2.     Why is it important to estimate all startup costs upfront?

3.     Define cash flow and explain why it matters.

4.     What are the risks of not managing accounts receivable/payable properly?

5.     How could vendor financing benefit your business?

6.     What’s the benefit of getting partial payment upfront on a contract?

7.     Why should you put all funding agreements in writing?

8.     What’s one mistake many startups make in estimating costs?

9.     How do you know when your business is cash flow positive?

10.                        What funding method makes the most sense for your business and why?


Class 3 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     Which of the following is NOT a typical startup cost?

o    a) Employee salaries

o    b) Office rent

o    c) Employee vacation requests

o    d) Inventory

o    Answer: c

2.     What does "factoring" mean in business?

o    a) Selling inventory at a discount

o    b) Taking a loan from a supplier

o    c) Selling your receivables for immediate cash

o    d) Raising money via online sales

o    Answer: c

3.     A break-even point is when:

o    a) Your company owes nothing

o    b) You recoup all taxes paid

o    c) Revenue equals expenses

o    d) Profit margin exceeds 20%

o    Answer: c

4.     What is a benefit of contract-based revenue?

o    a) Guaranteed cash upfront

o    b) No need for customer service

o    c) No marketing required

o    d) You don’t need to keep records

o    Answer: a

5.     Which of the following is a sign of poor cash flow management?

o    a) Steady bank balance

o    b) Frequent vendor disputes

o    c) Delayed payroll

o    d) On-time invoice payments

o    Answer: c

Short Answer: 6. Name three sources of startup capital. 7. Explain why cash flow is essential in the early stages of a business. 8. What does it mean to offer a personal guarantee? 9. Give an example of a business that could launch with no capital. 10. What financial documents should be in place when receiving a loan?

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. You receive $10,000 from a family member. How would you document and protect this arrangement? 12. Your business has invoices due in 30 days, but rent is due in 10. What can you do? 13. You need to raise $5,000 but don’t want to take on debt. What are your options? 14. If your projected expenses are $3,000/month, how much funding do you need for 6 months? 15. A vendor offers you a 15-day net payment term. How does this affect your cash flow?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: Cash flow = ______ – ______. (cash in – cash out) 17. True or False: Contracts should include payment terms and completion milestones. (True) 18. Fill in the blank: Your ______ point tells you when your revenue covers your expenses. (break-even) 19. True or False: A startup never needs more than one funding source. (False) 20. Fill in the blank: A ______ helps plan the money needed before the business becomes profitable. (startup budget)


Class 4: Marketing Fundamentals – Reaching and Attracting Customers

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the importance of marketing for new businesses.
  • Learn about different marketing materials and distribution methods.
  • Explore cost-effective marketing strategies.
  • Discover how to position a product or service to the right audience.

Class Outline:

1.     Review of Day 3 (10 minutes)

o    Recap funding options, startup budgeting, and cash flow insights.

o    Invite students to share their top three funding options and key takeaways.

2.     Marketing Materials (15 minutes)

o    Overview of essential business marketing tools:

§  Introductory letter to potential clients

§  One-sheet overview of products/services with or without pricing

§  Benefits statement (Why choose your company?)

§  Follow-up letter templates:

§  Thank you for your time

§  Thank you for reviewing our material

§  Thank you for allowing us to bid

o    Discuss creating a professional folder to organize materials.

3.     Marketing Methods (20 minutes)

o    Explore various strategies:

§  Telemarketing (requires client database)

§  Direct mail

§  Door-to-door

§  Yellow Pages

§  Classifieds, newspapers, trade journals

§  Company website

§  Email marketing

§  Word of mouth/referrals

§  Flyers/posters

§  Incentives/kickbacks

§  Trade shows and fairs

§  Drive-by signage

§  Billboards and road signs

o    Discuss pros and cons of each, including budget, reach, and effort.

4.     Customer Contact Strategy (10 minutes)

o    Determine the most cost-effective way to reach your specific audience.

o    Each method has a cost: What works best for your business model?

o    Encourage students to consider their customer’s daily behavior.

5.     Homework for Class #5:

o    Design a sample introductory letter and product/service one-sheet.

o    Choose three marketing methods to research further and prepare to discuss.

o    Identify one ideal customer and explain how you would reach them.


Class 4 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What is the goal of an introductory letter?

2.     What are the key components of an effective marketing folder?

3.     Name five low-cost marketing methods.

4.     Which marketing method makes the most sense for your product/service and why?

5.     How can you gather potential customer contacts ethically and efficiently?

6.     Why should follow-up letters be part of your marketing process?

7.     What is the benefit of having a well-designed product/service one-sheet?

8.     How does understanding your customer’s habits impact your marketing?

9.     What does word-of-mouth marketing rely on?

10.                        What are three challenges to using telemarketing today?


Class 4 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     Which of the following is NOT a basic marketing tool?

o    a) Product one-sheet

o    b) Benefits statement

o    c) Rental agreement

o    d) Introductory letter

o    Answer: c

2.     What does an introductory letter typically include?

o    a) Refund policy

o    b) Employee handbook

o    c) Introduction, company summary, offering, benefits

o    d) Partnership contract

o    Answer: c

3.     Which marketing method typically requires a phone number database?

o    a) Email campaigns

o    b) Website SEO

o    c) Telemarketing

o    d) Trade shows

o    Answer: c

4.     A product one-sheet should:

o    a) Confuse the customer

o    b) Summarize what you sell and why it matters

o    c) Be handwritten

o    d) Replace your website

o    Answer: b

5.     Which of the following is an example of passive marketing?

o    a) Door-to-door sales

o    b) Trade show booth

o    c) Flyer on a bulletin board

o    d) Cold calling

o    Answer: c

Short Answer: 6. List three types of marketing materials a new business should create. 7. What is a benefit of using email marketing over door-to-door sales? 8. Why are follow-up letters important in the sales process? 9. How would you explain your company’s value in one sentence? 10. Give one example of a trade-specific journal you could advertise in.

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. You only have $200 to spend on marketing this month. Which three methods would you choose and why? 12. A customer doesn’t respond to your first letter. What should you do next? 13. You’re targeting real estate agents. Which marketing method would best reach them? 14. A competitor has large billboard ads. How might you compete with a smaller budget? 15. You’re attending a trade show. What materials do you bring and why?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: ______ marketing happens when customers tell others about your business. (Word-of-mouth) 17. True or False: Your marketing materials should always include pricing. (False) 18. Fill in the blank: A ______ letter thanks someone for reviewing your materials. (Follow-up) 19. True or False: All marketing methods work equally for all businesses. (False) 20. Fill in the blank: A good marketing strategy aligns with your ______ and your customer’s behavior. (budget)

lass 5: Sales, Transactions, and Inventory Management

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand how to set pricing for products and services.
  • Learn how to complete a sale, including necessary documentation and payment terms.
  • Explore basic inventory tracking and purchase order management.
  • Recognize the value of accurate records for business operations and taxes.

Class Outline:

1.     Review of Day 4 (10 minutes)

o    Recap key marketing concepts, customer contact strategies, and outreach methods.

o    Ask students to present their sample introductory letters and discuss their selected marketing methods.

2.     Making the Sale: Pricing and Profit (15 minutes)

o    Pricing formulas:

§  Product: COGS + Expenses + Profit % = Price

§  Service: Labor + Overhead + Profit % = Price

o    Consider all costs, including overhead

o    The influence of competition and supply/demand

3.     Sales Documentation and Payment Terms (15 minutes)

o    Types of transactions:

§  Contract

§  Bill of Sale

§  Invoice

§  Purchase Order

o    Payment methods:

§  Cash sale, C.O.D., credit card, invoice, partial payments

o    Invoicing best practices:

§  When to invoice

§  Billing for labor (job, contract, hourly, milestone)

§  Discuss common payment terms (Net 15, Net 30, deposits)

4.     Inventory Management Basics (15 minutes)

o    Purchase Orders:

§  What to include: vendor, PO #, quantity, terms, shipping method, price

o    Receiving inventory:

§  Check against PO, document damage or errors immediately

o    Warehouse setup:

§  Incoming/outgoing areas, shelving, supplies

o    Tracking inventory:

§  Serial numbers, vendor, job #, quantity, pricing logs

5.     Homework for Class #6:

o    Draft a sample invoice for a product or service your business might sell.

o    Create a basic purchase order for a vendor.

o    Write down the full pricing breakdown for one of your products or services.


Class 5 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What formula would you use to price a service-based business?

2.     Why is overhead important in pricing decisions?

3.     What are the most common types of sales documentation?

4.     When should a business invoice a customer?

5.     What payment terms might you offer for large projects?

6.     Why is it important to track inventory against a purchase order?

7.     What information should always be included on a PO?

8.     What are two benefits of organizing your warehouse properly?

9.     How do partial payments help with cash flow?

10.                        Why is inventory tracking important for taxes and bookkeeping?


Class 5 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     Which of the following is NOT included in a pricing formula for a product?

o    a) Cost of Goods Sold

o    b) Rent

o    c) Profit Margin

o    d) Social Media Followers

o    Answer: d

2.     A bill of sale is used to:

o    a) Promote your brand

o    b) Finalize a product or service transaction

o    c) Hire employees

o    d) Set tax rates

o    Answer: b

3.     Net 30 payment terms mean:

o    a) The invoice is due immediately

o    b) The customer has 30 days to pay from the invoice date

o    c) The payment must be split into 30 installments

o    d) Payment is due after product delivery

o    Answer: b

4.     Which of the following is NOT typically tracked in inventory management?

o    a) Vendor

o    b) Purchase Order Number

o    c) Customer Satisfaction

o    d) Quantity Received

o    Answer: c

5.     When should a business inspect incoming inventory?

o    a) One week after delivery

o    b) Only if something breaks

o    c) Immediately upon receipt

o    d) During tax season

o    Answer: c

Short Answer: 6. Explain the difference between a product sale and a service sale. 7. What is the purpose of a purchase order? 8. List three things to check when receiving inventory. 9. What is the role of an invoice in business transactions? 10. Why is pricing incorrectly a risk to small businesses?

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. You charge $100 for a service. Your labor costs are $40, and overhead is $20. What is your profit? 12. A customer wants to pay half up front and half on delivery. How would you document this? 13. If you don’t track your inventory accurately, what problems might occur? 14. You receive damaged equipment from a vendor. What should you do? 15. If your supplier offers Net 15 but your customers pay in 45 days, how does this impact cash flow?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: _______ + Expenses + Profit % = Final Price (COGS) 17. True or False: Invoicing should happen only once a month. (False) 18. Fill in the blank: A _______ helps document what inventory was ordered. (Purchase Order) 19. True or False: Keeping a warehouse organized helps with faster order fulfillment. (True) 20. Fill in the blank: A business should inspect _______ inventory for accuracy. (incoming)


Class 6: Office Setup, Technology Tools, and Database Management

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the foundational tools needed for office setup.
  • Learn the purpose and use of essential business software.
  • Grasp the importance of data collection and client database building.
  • Explore best practices for fax communication and telemarketing techniques.

Class Outline:

1.     Review of Day 5 (10 minutes)

o    Recap sales documentation, pricing strategies, and inventory tracking.

o    Ask students to present their draft invoices or purchase orders.

2.     Office Setup and Essential Technology (15 minutes)

o    Core equipment: Computer, printer, phone, fax machine, internet

o    Software essentials:

§  GL (General Ledger), AP (Accounts Payable), AR (Accounts Receivable), PR (Payroll)

§  JC (Job Costing), SOE (Sales Order Entry), INO (Inventory), PO (Purchase Orders)

§  CRM systems like ACT! or Telemagic

§  Email clients, word processors, spreadsheets

o    Importance of digital connectivity and backups

3.     Fax Machine Use and Best Practices (10 minutes)

o    Outgoing and incoming communication

o    Sending confirmation pages for valuable documents

o    Common fax uses: contracts, orders, purchase confirmations

4.     Building and Managing a Customer Database (15 minutes)

o    What to capture: name, company, email, phone, interests, purchase history

o    Methods to collect information:

§  Specials/promotions

§  Fish bowl drawings

§  Coupons

§  SIC codes (purchased lists)

§  Trade shows, call-in info, sign-in sheets

o    Maintaining, sorting, and using the database for marketing and follow-up

5.     Telemarketing and Use of the Phone (15 minutes)

o    First 5 seconds: critical opening

o    Use of open-ended, value-driven questions

o    Phone etiquette:

§  Use the client’s name

§  Speak with inflection and clarity

§  Ask if it’s a good time to talk

§  Assume confidence, use referrals when applicable

§  Keep calls concise and goal-oriented

Homework for Class #7:

  • Write a brief telemarketing script for your business.
  • Create a sample customer database template with at least 10 fields.
  • Identify the most critical software tools for your business type.

Class 6 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What are the core software tools needed for business accounting?

2.     Why is a client database essential to marketing and sales?

3.     List three creative ways to collect customer information.

4.     What should you always include on a fax confirmation?

5.     Why are CRM systems like ACT! valuable to small businesses?

6.     What should your voice and tone sound like during a cold call?

7.     How does telemarketing differ from email marketing?

8.     What is the most important thing to say in the first 5 seconds of a call?

9.     Why is customer data one of your most valuable assets?

10.                        What’s one thing you learned today that surprised you?


Class 6 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     What does AP stand for in accounting software?

o    a) Application Processing

o    b) Automated Payroll

o    c) Accounts Payable

o    d) Asset Planning

o    Answer: c

2.     A CRM system is designed to:

o    a) Track employee hours

o    b) Process product returns

o    c) Manage customer relationships and data

o    d) Schedule warehouse shifts

o    Answer: c

3.     The most important part of a cold call is:

o    a) The final pitch

o    b) The first 5 seconds

o    c) Your fax number

o    d) Sending an invoice

o    Answer: b

4.     Which is NOT a method of collecting customer data?

o    a) Fish bowl at a counter

o    b) Trade show sign-in

o    c) Payroll tracking

o    d) Purchase history

o    Answer: c

5.     One benefit of faxing important documents is:

o    a) It's cheaper than email

o    b) It doesn’t need a confirmation

o    c) You receive proof of delivery

o    d) It’s faster than a phone call

o    Answer: c

Short Answer: 6. List three types of software every small business should consider. 7. Name two functions a CRM system helps with. 8. How can you ethically collect customer information? 9. Why should you always back up your database? 10. What is one benefit of organizing customer data?

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. You’re calling a lead for the first time. What should your opening line sound like? 12. A customer says it’s not a good time. What should you do? 13. You lose access to your customer database. What do you do next? 14. You’re collecting data at a trade show. How do you organize and use it later? 15. You send a fax, but the recipient says it didn’t come through. What now?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: GL, AP, AR, and PR are types of _______ software. (accounting) 17. True or False: A CRM helps you track customer preferences. (True) 18. Fill in the blank: A _______ sheet lets customers write down their contact info at events. (sign-in) 19. True or False: You should never use open-ended questions in telemarketing. (False) 20. Fill in the blank: _______ systems help you manage emails, phone numbers, and conversations. (CRM)

Class 7: Business Relationships – Customers, Vendors, and Employees

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand how to manage customer interactions before, during, and after the sale.
  • Learn best practices for vendor communication and dispute resolution.
  • Explore employee management basics, from hiring to benefits to payroll.

Class Outline:

1.     Review of Day 6 (10 minutes)

o    Recap office setup, key software, database development, and telemarketing skills.

o    Ask students to present their telemarketing scripts or sample database templates.

2.     Customer Relationship Management (15 minutes)

o    Support through sales stages: presale, sale, and post-sale

o    Common customer issues: returns, late shipments, wrong product, tech support

o    Support roles: internal support team or outsourced providers

o    Accounting and billing inquiries

o    Activity: Brainstorm 5 common customer complaints and solutions

3.     Vendor Relationship Management (15 minutes)

o    Common vendor issues: missing/incomplete/defective product, billing disputes, freight claims

o    Vendor return protocols and MRA (Material Return Authorization)

o    Timelines for dispute resolution

o    Drop shipments and maintaining professional branding

o    Tracking freight charges, obtaining all documentation

4.     Employee Management Basics (20 minutes)

o    Hiring: application forms, contracts, and non-compete/non-disclosure agreements

o    Benefits: medical, dental, 401K, paid time off, sick days, bonuses

o    Payroll frequency: weekly, biweekly, monthly

o    Vacation/sick accrual calculations (e.g., .833 days per month)

o    Commissions, bonuses, and incentive pay – importance of written documentation

o    Year-end compliance: W2s, 1099s, due dates and responsibilities

o    Annual reviews and employee documentation

Homework for Class #8:

  • Create a sample return policy for customers.
  • Draft a vendor dispute communication plan.
  • Prepare a short benefits overview and vacation/sick policy for a future employee.

Class 7 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What are three types of customer service issues that may arise after a sale?

2.     Why is it important to respond quickly to customer concerns?

3.     What is an MRA and why is it needed?

4.     How should you handle a dispute with a vendor over incorrect billing?

5.     Name three benefits that help attract quality employees.

6.     How can having clear documentation help in employee relations?

7.     What are two common payroll schedules?

8.     Why is a non-compete agreement important for sales employees?

9.     What’s one reason to offer annual reviews to employees?

10.                        Why must 1099s be issued to contractors?


Class 7 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     A customer calls about receiving the wrong item. What is the best first step?

o    a) Send a bill

o    b) Ignore the call

o    c) Apologize and investigate the order

o    d) Send a refund immediately

o    Answer: c

2.     Which of the following is considered a vendor issue?

o    a) Employee tardiness

o    b) Missing inventory upon delivery

o    c) Tax audit

o    d) Customer review

o    Answer: b

3.     An MRA helps with:

o    a) Hiring new employees

o    b) Marketing analysis

o    c) Returning defective products to vendors

o    d) Tracking customer preferences

o    Answer: c

4.     What is typically found in an employee benefits package?

o    a) W2

o    b) Sales commissions

o    c) Insurance and PTO

o    d) PO Number

o    Answer: c

5.     When are 1099s due to contractors?

o    a) March 1

o    b) December 31

o    c) January 31

o    d) February 15

o    Answer: c

Short Answer: 6. What is the purpose of a customer return policy? 7. How should a business document vendor freight disputes? 8. Why is it important to keep records of employee benefits and compensation? 9. What is one potential consequence of not conducting annual employee reviews? 10. List three items commonly tracked in a vendor return process.

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. A customer claims your product arrived damaged. How would you handle it? 12. A vendor overcharges you for shipping. What steps do you take to resolve it? 13. An employee disputes their commission. What process should you follow? 14. You need to explain your benefits policy to a new hire. How would you present it? 15. A customer says their equipment arrived late. How do you verify this?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: Vacation accrual at 10 days/year would be ______ per month. (.833) 17. True or False: W2s are used for independent contractors. (False) 18. Fill in the blank: A vendor ______ form outlines the return and credit procedure. (return) 19. True or False: Sales commissions should always be written down in an agreement. (True) 20. Fill in the blank: ______ support occurs after the customer receives the product. (Post-sale)


Class 8: Business Formation and Legal Foundations

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the legal structures available for small businesses.
  • Learn how to register a business and obtain necessary licenses.
  • Identify key tax requirements and compliance steps.
  • Gain clarity on insurance, liability, and record-keeping responsibilities.

Class Outline:

1.     Review of Day 7 (10 minutes)

o    Recap customer/vendor/employee relationships

o    Ask students to present return policy drafts or employee benefit outlines

2.     Business Legal Structures (15 minutes)

o    Overview of sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, S-Corp, and C-Corp

o    Pros and cons of each:

§  Liability

§  Taxation

§  Setup costs

§  Flexibility

o    How to choose the right structure for your business

3.     Business Registration and Licensing (15 minutes)

o    Registering your business name

o    Obtaining federal EIN and state tax ID

o    Local permits and licenses (city/county)

o    Doing Business As (DBA) registrations

o    Compliance with zoning laws

4.     Tax Responsibilities and Reporting (10 minutes)

o    Overview of federal, state, and local tax requirements

o    Sales tax collection and reporting

o    Payroll taxes if hiring employees

o    Estimated quarterly taxes for self-employed owners

o    Hiring a bookkeeper vs. DIY

5.     Business Insurance and Record-Keeping (15 minutes)

o    General liability, professional liability, worker’s comp

o    Why insurance is critical from Day 1

o    Importance of good record-keeping for audits and planning

o    Digital vs. paper records; storing receipts, invoices, and payroll records

Homework for Class #9:

  • Decide which legal structure best fits your business and explain why.
  • Draft a checklist of licenses, tax IDs, and permits needed for your business.
  • Research the types of business insurance relevant to your industry.

Class 8 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What are the benefits of forming an LLC?

2.     How does a sole proprietorship differ from a partnership?

3.     Why is an EIN important?

4.     What licenses or permits might your local government require?

5.     What happens if you don’t collect sales tax when required?

6.     What type of insurance would protect you against customer lawsuits?

7.     Why is record-keeping critical for small businesses?

8.     What is the benefit of a “Doing Business As” registration?

9.     How often should you file sales taxes?

10.                        Why might a business hire a bookkeeper?


Class 8 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     An LLC offers which of the following benefits?

o    a) Unlimited liability

o    b) Double taxation

o    c) Limited liability protection

o    d) Requires no paperwork

o    Answer: c

2.     A sole proprietorship is owned by:

o    a) Multiple shareholders

o    b) A single individual

o    c) A board of directors

o    d) A corporation

o    Answer: b

3.     A DBA allows you to:

o    a) Register your business online

o    b) Use a trade name different from your legal name

o    c) Avoid taxes

o    d) Eliminate insurance

o    Answer: b

4.     You need an EIN if:

o    a) You plan to hire employees

o    b) You want to use a business name

o    c) You are self-employed

o    d) All of the above

o    Answer: d

5.     General liability insurance covers:

o    a) Your retirement fund

o    b) Damage to your personal vehicle

o    c) Legal claims from customers

o    d) Inventory spoilage

o    Answer: c

Short Answer: 6. List two benefits of forming an S-Corp. 7. What steps are required to register your business name? 8. What records should a business keep on file for taxes? 9. Describe one type of insurance your business might need. 10. What are two reasons to hire a professional bookkeeper?

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. You want to open a food truck. What licenses and permits might you need? 12. Your LLC is sued. How does your legal structure protect you? 13. A city inspector asks for your license. You don’t have one. What are the consequences? 14. You forgot to pay quarterly taxes. What happens? 15. You’re switching from a sole proprietorship to an LLC. What steps must you take?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: An ______ is used to identify a business entity to the IRS. (EIN) 17. True or False: Record-keeping is optional unless audited. (False) 18. Fill in the blank: Business ______ insurance protects against legal claims. (liability) 19. True or False: Sole proprietorships are taxed separately from their owners. (False) 20. Fill in the blank: A ______ is required in many states to operate under a business name other than your own. (DBA)


Class 9: Branding, Positioning, and Business Image

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand how to develop a consistent brand and message.
  • Learn how to differentiate your business in a competitive market.
  • Identify the components of a strong business image.
  • Create a brand strategy aligned with your mission and values.

Class Outline:

1.     Review of Day 8 (10 minutes)

o    Recap legal structure choices, business registration, licensing, and compliance

o    Discuss students’ completed checklists and researched insurance options

2.     What Is Branding? (10 minutes)

o    Define branding: a promise to the customer, beyond logo or slogan

o    Components of a brand: visual identity, tone, messaging, mission alignment

o    Importance of consistency across all channels (website, email, signage, print)

3.     Brand Positioning and Differentiation (15 minutes)

o    Define positioning: the space you occupy in the customer’s mind

o    Analyze competitors: what makes your business unique?

o    Communicating benefits clearly and compellingly

o    Activity: Draft a one-sentence positioning statement

4.     Creating a Professional Business Image (15 minutes)

o    Website quality and professionalism

o    Business cards, letterhead, signage, employee presentation

o    Customer experience: tone of voice, email etiquette, voicemail greetings

o    Dress code, office/store appearance, social media tone

5.     Brand Strategy and Customer Trust (15 minutes)

o    Aligning brand with customer values

o    Transparency and follow-through

o    Consistency builds recognition and trust over time

o    Evolving your brand without losing identity

Homework for Class #10:

  • Finalize your business’s brand positioning statement
  • Create a short brand guide: colors, tone, logo idea, and visual style
  • Bring in one example of a brand you admire and explain why

Class 9 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What is branding and how does it go beyond a logo?

2.     Why is consistency important in branding?

3.     How does your tone of voice affect your customer’s perception?

4.     What’s the difference between branding and positioning?

5.     Why is it important to research competitors when positioning your brand?

6.     What elements contribute to a professional business image?

7.     How do strong brand values create customer trust?

8.     Name three areas where your brand image should appear consistently.

9.     What are two benefits of a clear brand strategy?

10.                        How can branding influence customer loyalty?


Class 9 – 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     Which of the following is NOT part of a business’s brand?

o    a) Company mission

o    b) Font and color use

o    c) Competitor’s reviews

o    d) Tone of voice

o    Answer: c

2.     A brand’s “position” is:

o    a) Your business address

o    b) The pricing structure

o    c) The space you occupy in the customer’s mind

o    d) The number of employees

o    Answer: c

3.     Which of the following contributes most to building customer trust?

o    a) Discounts

o    b) Consistent branding and transparency

o    c) Changing logos often

o    d) Sending weekly ads

o    Answer: b

4.     Why is it important to analyze competitors?

o    a) To copy their ideas

o    b) To find weaknesses and avoid duplication

o    c) To sell to their customers

o    d) To buy out their business

o    Answer: b

5.     Visual identity includes all EXCEPT:

o    a) Logo

o    b) Colors

o    c) Business licenses

o    d) Fonts

o    Answer: c

Short Answer: 6. What is a brand positioning statement? 7. Name three elements of visual branding. 8. How does customer experience shape your business image? 9. What should be included in a basic brand guide? 10. Why should your website reflect your brand’s tone and mission?

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. Your brand is casual and fun, but your email sounds overly formal. What should you change? 12. A customer asks what makes your business different. How do you respond? 13. You admire Apple’s branding. What lessons can you apply to your business? 14. You realize your logo doesn’t match your mission anymore. What do you do? 15. You want to rebrand. How do you ensure customers don’t get confused?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: A ______ is a consistent message and experience your business presents to the public. (brand) 17. True or False: Your visual branding should change monthly. (False) 18. Fill in the blank: A ______ statement summarizes how you’re different from the competition. (positioning) 19. True or False: Brand values are optional for small businesses. (False) 20. Fill in the blank: ______ builds brand recognition and customer trust. (Consistency)

Class 10: Final Review, Presentation, and Course Wrap-Up

Time: 1–1.25 hours

Learning Objectives:

  • Reinforce all key concepts covered throughout the course.
  • Present a clear, concise business startup plan.
  • Build confidence through peer feedback and self-assessment.
  • Celebrate progress and outline next steps.

Class Outline:

1.     Final Review and Open Q&A (15 minutes)

o    Recap key lessons from each of the 9 previous classes:

§  Motivation and mission

§  Product vs. service

§  Supply chain and vendors

§  Marketing materials and strategy

§  Sales, pricing, and inventory

§  Office setup and software

§  Customer/vendor/employee relations

§  Legal setup and compliance

§  Branding and positioning

o    Open Q&A: Allow students to ask lingering questions

2.     Business Concept Presentation (25 minutes)

o    Each student shares:

§  Their business concept in 1–2 minutes

§  Mission and positioning statement

§  Product or service description

§  Target market

§  Marketing methods

§  Sales process

§  Key startup needs (vendor, labor, funding)

§  Legal structure and brand overview

o    Encourage applause and constructive peer feedback

3.     Final Assessment Quiz (20 minutes)

o    Comprehensive quiz covering all classes (see below)

4.     Closing Remarks and Next Steps (5–10 minutes)

o    Share resources:

§  SBA.gov

§  SCORE mentorships

§  Local chambers of commerce

§  Continuing education resources

o    Encourage students to keep developing their plans and seek support

o    Congratulate everyone on their progress

Homework / Next Steps:

  • Refine and document your business plan
  • Schedule a mentor session or small business consultation
  • Begin first actionable steps within 30 days

Class 10 Follow-Up Questions:

1.     What was the most important thing you learned in this course?

2.     Which area of your business plan do you feel most confident about?

3.     What areas still need development?

4.     What are your next 3 action steps to move forward?

5.     Where will you go for ongoing support?

6.     Which concept or class session had the biggest impact on you?

7.     What is your biggest takeaway about entrepreneurship?

8.     How has your understanding of business planning changed?

9.     What advice would you give to a new entrepreneur just starting out?

10.                        What is one thing you’re committing to do this week?


Class 10 – Final 20 Question Comprehension Test:

Multiple Choice:

1.     What is the primary purpose of a mission statement?

o    a) Legal compliance

o    b) Summarize product specs

o    c) Communicate purpose and values

o    d) Determine pricing

o    Answer: c

2.     A target market refers to:

o    a) Businesses you buy from

o    b) The group of customers you intend to serve

o    c) Marketing employees

o    d) Tax reporting agency

o    Answer: b

3.     What’s a major risk of poor cash flow management?

o    a) Losing your license

o    b) Growing too fast

o    c) Inability to pay expenses on time

o    d) Paying too little in taxes

o    Answer: c

4.     A purchase order is used to:

o    a) Pay employees

o    b) Track product returns

o    c) Document a vendor purchase

o    d) Set pricing strategy

o    Answer: c

5.     Which legal structure provides limited liability and flexible taxes?

o    a) Sole proprietorship

o    b) LLC

o    c) General partnership

o    d) DBA

o    Answer: b

Short Answer: 6. What’s the formula for setting a product price? 7. Name three things you should track in inventory management. 8. Why is branding important for small businesses? 9. What should be included in a customer invoice? 10. What is one major benefit of using accounting software?

Scenario-Based / Critical Thinking: 11. A vendor sends damaged products. How do you handle it? 12. You only have $500 to market your business. What methods would you use? 13. A customer demands a refund outside of your stated return policy. What’s your response? 14. You’re launching a service business but have no capital. What are your next steps? 15. You’ve created a new logo. How do you integrate it into your existing brand?

Fill in the Blank / True or False: 16. Fill in the blank: ______ flow tracks money coming in and going out. (Cash) 17. True or False: A business license is optional if you work from home. (False) 18. Fill in the blank: A ______ sheet explains your product/service in a single document. (one) 19. True or False: Telemarketing is the same as cold emailing. (False) 20. Fill in the blank: A ______ plan helps guide business operations and decisions. (business)


Congratulations on completing the Small Business Startup, Growth and Development Course!