Start Your Own Business - commencing 31st March

Start Your Own Business

• All Tuesdays
• March 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28
• 18:30-21:30

Overview

Delivered in interactive 7x3-hour workshops, this programme covers business ideation, LEAN Business Canvas, business planning, team building, self-employment essentials and effective resource management. Participants will learn how to validate a business idea, develop a clear value proposition, assess market opportunities, prepare financial projections and create an actionable plan for growth.

The sessions combine expert tutor input, practical exercises and peer discussion, ensuring participants leave with clear next steps and structured tools they can apply immediately.

Business Ideation and Development

- Understand the fundamentals of business ideation and the importance of innovation.
- Utilize various ideation techniques to generate creative business ideas. 
- Evaluate and validate business ideas using structured methodologies.
- Develop a business model and value proposition for a new business idea. 
- Create a basic business development plan to guide the execution of their idea

LEAN Business Canvas

- Understand the principles and benefits of the LEAN methodology in the context of the Business Model Canvas.
- Identify and analyse key elements of a business model using the LEAN Business Canvas. 
- Apply LEAN principles to validate assumptions and test hypotheses through customer interviews, feedback sessions, and rapid experimentation.
- Create a comprehensive and actionable LEAN Business Canvas for their own business or venture.
- Implement the LEAN Business Canvas to drive continuous improvement and iterate on their business model.
- Develop a strategic action plan based on the canvas and set relevant KPIs to monitor progress

Building your Team - Introduction to HR

- Understand the importance of building a strong and cohesive team. 
- Identify the characteristics of high-performing teams.
- Define roles and responsibilities within the team. 
- Align team goals with organizational objectives. 
- Develop effective communication channels within the team. 
- Handle conflicts and promote a positive team culture. 
- Motivate and engage team members to enhance performance.
- Recognize and reward team achievements. 
- Encourage creativity and innovation within the team.
- Foster a positive team environment that promotes collaboration and productivity.

Business Planning

- Understand the importance and benefits of a well-crafted business plan.
- Identify the key components and sections of a business plan.
- Conduct market research and analysis to assess opportunities and competition. 
- Develop a clear and compelling value proposition for their business. 
- Create realistic financial projections and budgets.
- Formulate implementation strategies and action plans.
- Effectively communicate their business plan to stakeholders, including investors and lenders.

Working and Living as a Self-Employed Person

- Understand the benefits and challenges of self-employment and its differences from traditional employment. 
- Evaluate personal skills, interests, and market opportunities to identify a viable self-employment venture.
- Plan and develop a business strategy, including creating a business plan and setting realistic goals.
- Navigate the legal and financial aspects of self-employment, such as permits, taxes, and financial management.
- Implement effective marketing and branding strategies to promote their self-employment venture.
- Manage time effectively, maintain work-life balance, and stay motivated as a self-employed person.
- Build and nurture client relationships, provide exceptional customer service, and obtain referrals.
- Seek continuous professional development opportunities and foster growth as a self-employed professional.
- Adapt business strategies and practices for long-term success and sustainability in self-employment

Resources Management

- Understand the importance of resource management in small businesses.
- Identify and prioritize key resources required for business success.
- Develop strategies to effectively allocate financial resources.
- Optimize human resource management, including recruitment, training, and retention.
- Implement inventory management techniques to control material resources.
- Enhance efficiency and productivity through effective time management.
- Overcome common resource management challenges faced by small businesses.
- Develop an action plan for improving resource management practices in your organization.

The course will be delivered by Ruya Advisory Ltd. on behalf of LEO Cork City.