Build Your Business: A Course in Business Planning and Operation

What is the Build Your Business Program?
The Build Your Business Program is an eight week course, meant to help you develop an understanding of how to start, operate and expand a small business successfully. By the end of the course, you will have created the beginnings of a business plan.

What information is taught in the course?
The course offers a comprehensive approach to building a small business. We select clients who have started a business or have shown significant dedication to starting their business. Our teaching methods involve analyzing real business strategies and applying them to your enterprise. Throughout the course, you will learn about topics such as:

Who can take the course?
If you decide that the Intersect Fund’s Build Your Business Course is right for you, you will be asked to submit an application to our staff. We will ask you about what kind of business you own or would like to start, and how far along you are in planning it. Though you do not have to have started a business to enroll in the course, we prefer that you have some experience in the industry in which you hope to work. For instance, if you want to open a restaurant, we would ask about your experience in food service, or about the research you have conducted on the industry. You must be 16 years of age or older to enroll in the course.

When and where are upcoming courses?
Each course meets for one three-hour session per week for eight weeks. Click here for upcoming orientation information.

We offer the course at a variety of locations. The Intersect Fund partners with numerous community organizations to provide accessible locations for interested clients. In the past, we have held courses at New Brunswick institutions such as Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Sacred Heart Church, the Elijah’s Promise Culinary Arts School, the New Brunswick Free Public Library, and Magyar Bank.

 

How do I apply?
There are a few ways to apply for the course.

How much does the course cost?
Tuition is $100 for the full eight weeks. It covers the cost of each course and a training manual. Entrepreneurs who complete the course receive complementary business cards and a copy of Quickbooks business software.

How and when do I pay the tuition?
All tuition payments are due by the beginning of the second class. Clients who fail to pay by then will not be allowed to continue. If you have a unique case that prevents you from paying the full tuition amount, please call us at (732) 447-1324 and set up an appointment to meet with us.  All tuition payments must be made by cash or check. The tuition payment can be handed in at the orientation or at the beginning of the first or second class. Also, tuition payments can be dropped off at the Intersect Fund office.

For more information about the Build Your Business course please call us at (732) 447-1324 or e-mail us at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.

To sign up for periodic updates on the services we offer, click here.