The LEADING EDGE Strategic Planning Series is an intensive and hands-on course designed to help entrepreneurs with comprehensive training on starting and operating a small business. The course will help both start-up and existing businesses.

The program includes:

  • 18 hours of workshop sessions and special bonus events
  • 5 hours of one-on-one consulting
  • Scheduled milestone and planning assignments

In-depth topics include:

  • Organizational: Legal Entity, Management and Personnel
  • Operational: Record-keeping, Controls and Risk Management
  • Marketing: Market Research, Strategies, Tactics and Implementation
  • Financial: Sales Forecast, Cash Flow Projections and Financial Statements 

LEADING EDGE participants that graduate from the program with a completed business plan will be invited to a statewide ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion each spring, where prizes are awarded for the top business plans in the state.

LEADING EDGE sessions are held in the spring and fall each year. The Southwest Colorado SBDC is one of several centers offering an online version of the training. We host free informational briefings prior to the start of each session. Scholarships may be available to qualified individuals. Come learn about how the class can assist you and your business, see the course materials, and meet the instructors. If you would like to register for the course or attend a briefing to learn more about LEADING EDGE, please contact us.

More information about the classes below can be found by browsing our workshop offerings here.

Cortez Leading Edge Class 2024

Begins: 

March 30, April 13, and  April 27

Presentations/Graduation is TBD.

Time:
8:30am-3:30pm

Where:
Cortez City Hall

Facilitators:
Cindy Dvergsten

Cost:
$300

Durango Leading Edge Class 2024

Begins:
Free Info Session- March 27

Class Sessions: April 10, 24, May 1, 15, 22, 29

Presentations/Graduation is TBD in June

Time:
6:00-8:30pm

Where:
Center of Innovation

Facilitators:
Jasper Welch and Mary Shepherd

Cost:
$300

Pagosa Springs Leading Edge Class 202

Begins:
TBD- will be offered if sufficient demand 

Time:
TBD

Facilitator:
Rich Lindblad

Cost:
$300

Contact Mary Shepherd at shepherd_m@fortlewis.edu for more information and scholarship applications.

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