In today’s business landscape, entrepreneurship has become a possible path for individuals seeking to pursue their dreams and secure a better future for themselves and their families. The University of Scranton Women’s Entrepreneurship Center (WEC) and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) are teaming up to offer StartUP a 6-week certificate program designed for women with lower incomes, women experiencing a life transition or women trying to make a better life for themselves and their families. StartUP will offer women support and guidance in determining if entrepreneurship is an option for them.
Housed in the Kania School of Management, The University of Scranton Women’s Entrepreneurship Center (WEC) is a program of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). WEC student interns and SBDC staff offer business start-up information, guidance, and encouragement.
What is StartUP?
The StartUP series is a 6-week certificate program designed for women with lower incomes, women experiencing a life transition or women trying to make a better life for themselves and their families. The program aims to empower women by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to explore the world of entrepreneurship. Whether you have a business idea in mind or are simply curious about the entrepreneurial path, this program is tailored to guide you through the process.
Program Details
The StartUP series will be conducted via live Zoom sessions for women in the Pennsylvania counties of Bradford, Lackawanna, Monroe, Pike, Susquehanna, Tioga, Wayne, or Wyoming. The sessions will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from September 26th to November 2nd, running from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. This flexibility allows participants to balance their learning with their existing commitments.
What Will You Learn?
StartUP covers a wide range of topics essential for starting and running a successful business. These include:
- Start-up Basics: Understanding the fundamental steps involved in launching a business.
- Legal and Insurance Considerations: Navigating the legal and insurance aspects of entrepreneurship.
- Marketing and Social Media Essentials: Building a brand and effectively promoting your business in the digital age.
- Business Plan Development: Crafting a comprehensive business plan that outlines your vision and strategy.
- Accounting and Budget Skills: Managing finances and cashflow for your business.
- Financing Options and Requirements: Exploring funding sources and their requirements.
- Goal Setting: Setting achievable goals and milestones for your entrepreneurial journey.
Additionally, the series provides a unique opportunity for participants to learn from local women business owners who will share their own experiences, insights, and success stories.
Real Stories of Success
One recent graduate of the WEC StartUP series shared her experience, saying, “I have very little business background and was a bit intimidated to sign up, but everyone was so supportive and encouraging. The process was broken down into manageable tasks and the speakers were not only informative but motivating and inspiring.” This reflects the program’s commitment to empowering women to pursue entrepreneurship confidently.
How to Apply
The StartUP series is offered at no cost to participants; however, space is limited, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply, visit https://www.scrantonsbdc.com/womens-entrepreneurship-center/.
