The Business Plan Development Program provides extensive training and support to develop a comprehensive business plan.

For EI sponsored participants, once an application is approved, the applicant signs a contract with Community Futures for continuing EI Benefits and agrees to attend six weeks of in-class instruction, and to develop and complete a business plan within a ten week period.

Individuals who are not sponsored by Employment Insurance may purchase a seat in the Business Plan Development Program for $835.00 plus GST, based on availability and suitability.

Please note, all applicants must attend the Opportunity Readiness Workshop prior to applying for the Business Plan Development Program.

The 6 week Business Plan Development Program includes:

Week 1 & 2 Management and Operations - business management, operating plan, business plan writing and layout, vision, goals, objectives, risk management and guest speaker presentations during 4 days of instruction.

Week 3 & 4 Market Research and Market Strategies - collecting, analysing and finalizing market research, developing marketing strategies based on this research, effective sales staretgies, promotions and sales forecasting during 4 days of instruction.

Week 5 Finance - financial planning, cash flow forecasting, income statement and balance sheet preparation, sales and cost analysis, financing strategies including personal financial planning during 4 days of instruction.

Week 6 Wrap-up - one on one counseling is provided to assist the participant in writing, editing, troubleshooting and modifying the business plan in preparation for a final draft.