Our core 8-week business and project planning class is designed for aspiring and established entrepreneurs. Classes are taught by local experts and cover all the basics of starting a business – from licensing to financial literacy, market research to cash flow and more. You’ll leave the class with a completed business plan, a cohort of fellow entrepreneurs in Detroit, and the knowledge and confidence to take your idea to the next level.
Curriculum
Our curriculum is learner-centered, hands-on and activity based, so you’ll be doing as much as you’ll be listening. At the start of every session, we provide you with a BUILD binder that includes lessons, resources and a sample business plan for you to fill out as we go.
Class Topics
Money Management & Life Skills
Legal Structures, Licensing & Personal Budget
Personal Credit, Start-up Costs & Overhead
Sales Unit & Break Even Point
Sales and Profit Goals & Cash Flow
Target Markets, Market Research & Mission
Research, Competition, Pricing & Goals
Financing Sources & Loan Process
What to Expect During the Course
Courses are facilitated by experienced entrepreneurs who provide resources and necessary tools and are available to answer questions regarding your business plan during 1:1 sessions. Cohorts consist of 12-15 participants, bringing a diverse range of business and project ideas. Participants are at varying degrees of business development and best efforts are made to meet everyone where they are. Expect to spend at least 3 hours each week outside of class working on your business plan, doing market research, creating projections, etc. Class time is spent on the curriculum provided. Subject matter experts also attend several sessions to speak in-depth on specific topics. Given a participant completes all necessary work, one should expect to finish the class with a solid business plan (BUILD Institute does not write business plans).
Why BUILD Basics?
We strive to provide a nurturing environment for Builders both during and after they graduate from our classes. From ongoing educational workshops to alumni networking events, we know that learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. After completing your BUILD Basics cohort, you will be welcomed into the BUILD Alumni family of over 2,600! As an alum, you’ll gain access to our exclusive Alumni Networking events and the opportunity to be featured in BUILD’s newsletter and social media posts. Plus, we’re always looking for more ways to support our amazing alumni – stay up to date with current opportunities on our Instagram @StartWithBuild!
Valued at over $1000, our BUILD Basics class could easily carry a very hefty price tag. However, as a nonprofit organization dedicated to the support of neighborhood entrepreneurs, we make our programming as accessible as possible. BUILD Institute is “for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs” and we practice what we preach as we continue to innovate our model.