New Ventures Maine has an open call for Venturing Forth: Business Planning for Entrepreneurs, a tuition-free, comprehensive course scheduled to begin March 20.

The course will be offered in person at the University of Maine Augusta, Brunswick Center, with additional weekly lunchtime Zoom meetings for networking, topic lectures and professional development sessions.

For new entrepreneurs or existing business owners, Venturing Forth helps participants create a written business plan from start to finish with feedback from facilitators and fellow entrepreneurs. The 60-hour course covers topics including the customer, competition, marketing, recordkeeping, taxes, financing and legal aspects.

In-class activities, guest speakers, and homework assignments lead to the completed business plan and road map for success. This course also includes three follow-up networking sessions, according to a news release from Jennifer DeJoy, communications and development manager with New Ventures Maine.

The Venturing Forth class will meet in person from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays at the UMA Brunswick Center, 12 Sewall St., Brunswick Landing. It will meet on Zoom from noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, March 20 through June 12.

Individuals complete an online application and attend an orientation and individual interview to participate in the class. Applications are due by noon Friday, March 10, and are accessible online. Class size is limited.

“This is an intensive class for business owners to engage with not only the content so they can successfully write their business plan and launch their business, but also participate in a supportive environment in which students feel connected and supported by one another,” said NVME Small Business Advisor Jenn Dobransky. “The Venturing Forth learning experience is unique and transformative, and I look forward to welcoming the next round of students into the classroom.”

Anyone with a business idea or current business is welcome to apply. The in-depth course also qualifies for three pass/fail credits from the University of Maine at Augusta upon approval of a completed business plan.

To learn more, email Dobransky at jenn.dobransky@maine.edu or visit newventuresmaine.org.

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