Ignitor Course

Ignite Your Business @ Sierra Commons

Starting February 22nd 2012, Sierra Commons will present a six-week business course to help aspiring entrepreneurs launch new businesses in Nevada County.

Much more than a business plan building workshop, the Sierra Common’s Business Ignitor Course will bring together a group of like-minded individuals, guide them through the steps and provide the practical and tangible tools needed to launch a business at the end of the course.

The weekly three hour classes feature seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to each topic. Students will also have an opportunity to meet with business mentors, instructors and staff during weekly office hours for one-to-one time to finish weekly assignments.

“The Ignitor Course targets entrepreneurs who have focused business ideas and are committed to moving forward. The instructors at Sierra Commons understand that it takes a high level of commitment to start a business, so the sessions are geared accordingly. It will be an intense six weeks, but in the end, graduates have the opportunity to transform from aspiring entrepreneurs to inspired business owners”

Robert Trent, Executive Director, Sierra Commons

GRADUATION PACKAGE

Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive a “Graduation Package” worth hundreds of dollars and features two months of free office space at Sierra Commons, free Nolo Press Small Business Essentials book,  and much more to help successfully launch graduates’ businesses.

COURSE ACTIVITIES

The comprehensive course outline covers topics including writing a business plan, market analysis, marketing strategies, finance and budgeting, accounting, business law and more. Weekly motivational speakers and coaches will keep students focused and on track.

  • Business name
  • Business plan approach
  • Determining business structure
  • Competitive analysis
  • Exit strategy
  • Facilities and operations
  • Financial projections
  • Funding options
  • Licensing, permits, and insurance
  • Marketing and advertising
  • Mission and vision
  • Personal goals
  • Risk management
  • Staffing
  • Staying motivated
  • Acquiring insurance
  • Business filings
  • Creating a business card
  • Creating an elevator pitch
  • Determining target markets
  • Developing a marketing/sales plan
  • One page web site
  • Opening a business bank account
  • Writing an executive summary

 REGISTRATION

  • Space is limited to 15 participants.
  • First 15 qualified paid applicants will be accepted
  • Tuition: $350
    Please mail or deliver a check or cash to Sierra Commons 107 Sacramento Street, Suite 300 Nevada City, CA 95959
  • Deadline for applications and payment is February  15th.

DATES AND TIMES

Wednesdays: 9:00am – 12:00am
Fridays: 9:00am – 12:00am
~20 minute slots per student/per mentor

WEEK 1 Course:Wednesday February 22nd
Mentoring: Friday February 24th
WEEK 2 Course: Wednesday February 29th
Mentoring: Friday March 2nd
WEEK 3 Course:Wednesday March 7th
Mentoring: Friday March 9th
WEEK 4 Course: Wednesday March 14th
Mentoring: Friday March 16th
WEEK 5 Course:Wednesday March 21st
Mentoring: Friday March 23rd
WEEK 6 Course:Wednesday March 28th
Mentoring: Friday March 30th
                        Graduation Party: TBD

All Course activities take place at Sierra Commons

IGNITOR FACULTY:

APPLICATION

Please complete all questions below.

First Name (required)

Last Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Phone Number (required)

Have you ALREADY decided to start your own business?
 Yes No  Unsure

Briefly describe your business idea

In which time frame are you starting your business?

If you have started your business, which, if any, of the these tasks have you completed? (Check all that apply)
 Established company name Written a business plan Completed financial projections Created startup budget Set up email Created a website Registered a domain name Formed your business entity Secured funding Rented an office Used social media Registered with the state

Are you willing and able to dedicate between 20 and 40 hours per week for the duration of the 6 week course?
 yes no

How confident are you that your business will succeed?
 Very confident Somewhat confident Unsure Sceptical

How did you hear about the Business Ignitor Course?

Do you have any additional comments you would like to share?

Sponsors

Nolo Press
Rosemary Metrailer
Economic Resource Council of Nevada County Robertson, Woodford & Summers
Nevada County Toastmasters Grass Valley