Workshop Opportunity: SimpleSTEPS for Starting Your Business

This article was written by Paul Koeniguer and Terry Vorbich, both SCORE Mentors and Facilitators.

• Paul Koeniguer
• Terry Vorbich

Are You Ready to Start Your Own Business?

If you’re contemplating whether to pursue your business idea, an upcoming workshop produced by Des Moines SCORE in partnership with Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) can help you determine whether now is the right time. This is a unique opportunity for potential entrepreneurs who are unsure if they are ready to dive into small business ownership in Greater Des Moines (DSM).

About the Workshop

Learn what areas you need to polish up on to move forward with your idea and gain insight into tools and templates to turn your idea into actionable steps like developing a marketing strategy. You’ll also hear from experienced small businesses owners and SCORE counselors who can help provide mentorship in organizing your next steps. The workshop will have you considering what roles you will play as a business owner, how to identify your target audience, how to forecast your sales and search for capital and even how to assess your own skills and experience.

The workshop runs for four consecutive Tuesdays: June 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 6-9 p.m. at the FFA Enrichment Center on the DMACC Ankeny Campus. The cost is $95, and the registration deadline is Friday, May 27. Details and registration information are here.

Simple Steps Sessions

Over the course of the workshop, four session topics will be covered, including:

• Session I: Business Concepts
• Session II: Marketing Your Business
• Session III: Financial Matters – Understanding Financial Statement Basics and Financial Projections
• Session IV: Funding Sources & The Go or No-Go Decision

Each session will welcome guest speakers and facilitators to discuss each topic and will also include session homework.

Interested in learning more about SCORE’s volunteer opportunities? Read the last SCORE blog on volunteering here.

	Paul Koeniguer Paul Koeniguer is a business owner, entrepreneur and partner in FocusFirst, Inc. He also serves as a SCORE mentor and facilitator of the SimpleSTEPS for Starting Your Business program. Paul is a recognized leader across all aspects of sales including sales management, leadership, motivation, training and incentives in diverse industries.
	Terry Vorbich Terry Vorbich is a SCORE mentor and facilitator of the SimpleSTEPS for Starting Your Business program. He is retired from a 44-career in commercial banking, community and economic development and small business development. Terry serves on many community boards and is a past recipient of the SBA Iowa Financial Services Advocate of the Year Award.

Looking for tools to help grow your startup or small business? Visit the Small Business Resources Hub to find the information you need or sign up for Mentor Connection to build relationships with a trusted group of mentors.