New Business
IN BUSINESS 1-3 YEARS? WE’RE READY TO ASSIST YOU EXPLORE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES, WORK ON CASH FLOW, BRAND VALUE, ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE AND MORE.
Our services are offered at no cost throughout Ventura County and beyond. The list below contains services we commonly offer to businesses in existence one to three years. Our services are tailored exclusively to your individual needs; if you do not see a specific area of need listed below, please make an appointment to speak with one of our consultants.
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Cash Flow Management and Financial Statement Review: The SBDC consults clients on which key financial performance indicators should be measured for the longevity of the client’s business internally, against competitors, and in the market. The SBDC offers resources necessary for the client to measure, manage, and monitor the finances of his or her business and offers guidance on the operations of the business to stabilize cash flow.
Bookkeeping/Accounting: The SBDC analyzes the client’s business accounting procedures and financial condition for areas of improvement. Optimal bookkeeping procedures and standards that ensure proper financial management and legal compliance for the client’s business are then suggested.
Tax Planning: The SBDC works with the client to determine objectives and reviews the client’s tax strategy. The SBDC then helps identify incentives and rebates for the client’s business while complying with regulations. Resources and referral partners are also suggested to the client.
Employer Regulations: Necessary insurance and tax requirements related to hiring employees are reviewed and shared with clients. Clients are also provided with contacts to remain updated with all employee compliance issues.
Hiring Employees: The SBDC helps clients develop a new hire checklist for all new employees, including all required documentation, as well as job descriptions, an employee manual, and a compensation outline. The SBDC will refer the client to any appropriate employee subsidy programs.
Managing Employees: The SBDC mentors clients on creating a strategic, employee plan for their business providing feedback where necessary and assuring the plan includes scheduling, professional development, and team development of employees.
Labor Laws & HR Policies: The SBDC helps clients identify values, leadership style, and employee behaviors desired for his or her business. Based on those criteria, articulated policies and procedures that address labor issues and human resources can be written for the company with guidance.
Market Analysis: The SBDC directs clients in the development of a marketing strategy and execution plan based on the analysis of market segmentation and industry research. Resources that assist in designing the right marketing objective that fits the client’s business capabilities and the target market’s needs are provided. The SBDC also helps structure a feasible timeline for implementation based on factors like the product life cycle, innovation adoption lifecycle, and the client’s budget.
Strategy Planning: The SBDC focuses the client on developing a sales strategy, complete with a sales management system, measurable sales tactics, sales team responsibilities and roles, and a customer database of current customers and potential leads.
Advertising & Sales Planning : The SBDC teaches clients about the importance of cost-benefit analysis on various forms of potential promotional activities, and directs clients through the ROI evaluation of advertisements. Once strategic and cost effective activities have been selected, the SBDC helps with the development of an advertising budget and a performance evaluation strategy.
Brand Messaging: The SBDC assists clients with envisioning how consumers may value his or her brand, evaluate the purpose and meaning of the brand, and what position the brand has with respect to competitors. A strategy for brand development, customer feedback, and validation is then designed to allow clients to monitor consumer perceptions of his or her brand. Resources to implement the brand strategy are also shared with clients.
Web Development/Content Development: The SBDC consults the client on the importance of design and functional elements required for the update or creation of business websites. Resources are then also recommended to create or update the client’s business website. The SBDC works with clients to create an action plan with timelines and budgets for the completion of a robust business website.
Social Media: The SBDC consults clients on how social media outlets can be used as a push/pull strategy for promoting their business. The SBDC will recommend the best social media platforms for maximizing the client’s online presence. Clients will also learn when it may be appropriate to contract social media promotion services, the cost, the scope of service required for their business and more. The SBDC may refer recommended social media management systems or services to help drive the business’s social media promotion strategy.
Networking: The SBDC discusses the importance of networking for both personal and business growth. In regards to the client’s business, public relations strategies are suggested in an effort to increase the awareness and credibility of the business. The SBDC also defines specific network channels and tactics to increase the business network.
Trade Show Consultation: The SBDC recommends resources where clients can find key trade shows related to his or her industry and product. The SBDC also prepares clients for professional networking and sales activities for trade shows, including consulting on collateral or displays necessary, as well follow-up strategies for leads and potential partners.
