Start Smart • Grow Smart is a no-cost, accelerated business program designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners turn ideas into action—and growth into strategy. Held weekly, this hands-on program provides the guidance, tools, and support needed to confidently start or grow a business.

This week will cover Courses 9 through 11. You will learn about bookkeeping and various accounting terms and processes. These include Accounts Payable and Receivable, as well as the use of a Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Projections. You will learn how these statements and reports can help you track the financial health of your business. Then we’ll dive into $$$. You will think about how much money you really need to start or grow your business. You’ll be introduced to various funding sources and learn how your business plan can help you secure funding.

What You’ll Gain in this Session

• How to Get Organized, Pay Attention, and Keep Track with Bookkeeping.
• Cash Flows and Cash Flow Projections.
• Telling Your Story to Investors.
• How to determine if your business is earning a profit & what to do if it isn’t
• The concepts of profit, loss, balance sheets, and break-even.

Both the start-up entrepreneur and the owner who’s already in business. It is critical to know how your financials tell a story and will guide you in many business decisions. Whether you are adding staff, buying equipment, or opening a new location, learning these basics will help you build a strong business when applied.