Get Ready to Launch & Level Up

Join us for this emersive business start‑up & strategic planning series.

Jump into a fun and intensive 8‑weeks of experiences designed for emerging entrepreneurs and early‑stage business owners who are ready to build, strengthen, or refine their business ventures. The series will provide a clear roadmap of the strategic planning framework participants will use throughout the series, and sets expectations for the hands‑on, results‑driven work ahead.

Participants explore the essential building blocks of a strong business foundation—from defining a compelling value proposition to understanding market positioning, operational structure, and financial readiness. It will also helps attendees assess where their business or idea currently stands and identify the strategic gaps you’ll address over the coming weeks.

By the end of this series, participants will:

Identify and produce the core components of a strategic business plan

Evaluate your current business readiness and growth opportunities

Begin building a supportive network of fellow entrepreneurs

Learn about the tools, templates, and resources that will guide your small business and planning process

Gain clarity on how the series prepares you for real‑world funding and pitch opportunities

A key highlight of the program is the final session, which features a preliminary round pitch event. Throughout the series, participants develop the strategic insights, financial understanding, and communication skills needed to confidently present your business concept. Completing this pitch positions you to qualify for the annual CEO Pitch Event and satisfies the technical assistance requirement often needed to apply for additional grants and funding opportunities.

This series is designed to move entrepreneurs from idea to action with structure, accountability, and expert guidance. Participants who complete all eight sessions will receive a Certificate of Completion, recognizing their commitment to building a strong, sustainable business.

Schedule

Sessions run Tuesdays, March 3, 2026 to April 28, 2026. 5:30-8:30PM - In-person at Alamance Community College.

No class the week of March 31st.

Annual CEO Pitch Event Thursday, May 7, 2026

Registration deadline February 28, 2026