The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC), a Public Service and Outreach unit of the University of Georgia, has re-launched the SBDC StartSmart Program in a virtual, live learning format. The educational program, paired with expert consulting from SBDC professionals, is designed to assist those who are planning a business or have been in business for less than two years. 

StartSmart  will be held in a series of live virtual sessions that will facilitate discussion, class engagement and mastery of content. The course includes access to online business planning software and specially-trained UGA SBDC consultants. Over the course of the program, participants will:

• Evaluate and refine business concept

• Research markets and competition

• Develop a financial forecast to improve chances of success

• Create a thorough, practical business plan

• Acquire marketing strategies and information on acquiring capital from banks and investors

• Stay on track with continued engagement from SBDC consultants

The UGA SBDC Macon Office will host StartSmart  for the Central Georgia region starting May 4. StartSmart  takes place in a series of eight virtual learning modules – conducted live with SBDC Macon consultants –  twice a week for four weeks, every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. (May 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, & 27). 

“If you recently started a small business, the SBDC StartSmart Program can help you develop your plans and move forward, gain knowledge of critical business fundamentals and build a framework for a successful business operation,” said SBDC Macon Area Director Lisa Rackley. “We are excited to modify this signature program to a virtual format and still maintain a live, interactive experience that will facilitate engagement among participants.”

Please be advised seating is limited and participants MUST complete an application to be considered for the SBDC StartSmart Program. The cost of the program is $99 per participant. No applications will be accepted after class max has been reached.

Go to www.georgiasbdc.org/startsmart for complete details and to apply online. You may also contact Trudy Lawrence at (478) 757-3609 or email; [email protected].