FoundHer: From Idea to Business Plan - 6-Part Business Startup Series for Women

Program Description:

Is this the year that you bring your woman-owned business to life?

Whether you have a business idea that you are ready to launch or you have already filed an LLC but need help with the next steps, this program was designed for you.

Over seven weeks, from late September to early November, you will build the foundation you need to move your business forward with more clarity and confidence.

Your focus will be to get clear on exactly who your customers are and what you want to sell. You’ll test and tweak, create a list of products or services, set prices, set sales goals, and practice talking about who you are and what you do.

Each participant will receive their own copy of The Guided Small Business Planner™, a step-by-step workbook that will be used each week. At the end of the program, each participant will have completed a simple 3-page business model, alongside a 3-minute elevator pitch in a low-pressure environment.

Cost: There is no fee to participate. Sponsored by Central Carolina Community College Small Business Center.

This is for you if one or more of the following apply:

You have a business idea, but are not fully in business yet You are ready to start a business but want to do it with expert guidance You have filed an LLC, but want help bringing it to life You want structure, feedback, and clarity before launching You want to practice talking about their business in a low-pressure environment You are passionate about supporting other female founders and learning in a group environment

Program Takeaways:

Participants will leave with: A completed 3-page lean business model A practiced 2-minute elevator pitch A completed draft in The Guided Small Business Planner™ Clearer language around what they do and who they serve A better understanding of whether to move forward, pause, or adjust their idea Practical next steps to begin building the business

Format: 6 weekly sessions First and final sessions held in person Middle sessions held virtually on Zoom Uses The Guided Small Business Planner™ alongside a 3-page business model template and pitch template

Final informal pitch may be recorded Program Schedule: Time: 6 to 8 P.M.

Week 1: Wednesday, September 30, 2026 — In Person - Owner and Customers

Week 2: Wednesday, October 7, 2026 — Virtual - Say It Out Loud, Define What You Sell

Week 3: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 — Virtual - The Fundamentals and Business Expenses

Week 4: Wednesday, October 21, 2026 — Virtual - Know Your Numbers and Reaching Your Customers

Week 5: Wednesday, October 28, 2026 — Virtual - Price It and Set a Sales Goal

Week 6: 1-on-1 business plan review with business counselor

Week 7: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 — In Person - Creating a Brand Presence

Materials Needed: Access to a desktop or laptop computer A camera for our virtual sessions A Google account will be required for using the Business Model Template and Money Spreadsheet

Program Expectations To get the most out of this program, participants are expected to fully engage in the process. Attendance is required for all sessions. Because each week builds on the previous week, participants should plan to attend every session, whether in person or virtual.

Participants are also required to complete at least one 1--on-1 business plan review session with the Small Business Center as part of the program. This provides additional support and helps each participant take meaningful next steps toward starting their business.

For all virtual sessions, participants are expected to have their cameras on and actively participate. This program includes discussion, feedback, and pitch practice, so being present and engaged is an important part of the experience.