The University of Georgia's Small Business Development Center in Macon will host the StartSMART, program in Macon, March 25^th – April 29^th.

If You Can Dream It, We Can Help! Owning your own business is the American dream, but building it to withstand the test of time takes a unique set of tools-and a lot of hard work.  StartSMART will show you the way.

SBDC StartSMART gets results:

   *   Evaluate & refine your business concept

   *   Improve your knowledge of business concepts

   *   Research markets and competition

   *   Develop a financial forecast to improve chances of success

   *   Develop a thorough, practical business plan

   *   On-going consulting from SBDC professionals keeps you on track

SBDC StartSMART was developed by The Georgia SBDC Network.  The program is facilitated by specially trained SBDC Consultants and an award winning textbook by Rhonda Abrams!

StartSmart will help you launch a business built for today’s challenging times.  In a series of 6 weeks, learn to evaluate and implement your vision by creating a thorough, well researched business plan.

“The StartSMART client testimonials speak for themselves,” says SBDC Program Coordinator, Trudy Lawrence. “This program will help beginning entrepreneur’s launch their business with confidence and new business owners focus on and solidify their businesses foundation.”

“The SBDC StartSMART program has been extremely helpful in my business and has provided me with the tools to better devise strategies for future growth.  The multifaceted Business Consultants with diverse experiences are a major plus for the participants!”

 Brian C. Ezeike- Filmmaker/Videographer, WOB Films, Macon, GA:

“The knowledge from my StartSMART class has literally changed my life and made my company a success.”

Mary S. Kryk, General Manager-Premier Staffing Unlimited, Macon, GA:

“The collaborative environment, relevant guest speakers, and the knowledge gained through the StartSMART program was the most “bang for my buck” I’ve spent so far on my business.  The SBDC business consultants are the best tools I have in my company toolbox.” 

Leslie Fortson-Healthcare Management and Marketing, LLC, Macon, GA:

This 5 week class meets on Fridays: March 25^th, April 8, 15, and 29^th from 9am – 12 noon.   April 1^st and 22^nd are held from 9am-4pm.  All classes are held at the SBDC Macon office on Riverside Dr., Macon, GA. 

Thanks to the sponsorship of Wells Fargo, qualified applicants may receive a defrayment of the tuition for this program, decreasing the cost from $495 to $195 per person.  Includes the textbook, materials, as well as breakfast.  Lunch included on full day sessions. Applications are reviewed to ensure competitive conflicts are minimized.  Additional info and online application is available at https://www.georgiasbdc.org/startsmart/