Step-by-step instruction in how to develop a business plan for a small business start-up or expansion that can be submitted to a financial institution or used for implementation. Emphasis on importance of the plan, components, format, and considerations.

Instruction in determining financial needs and owner needs for financial assistance. Identify sources of funds and debt financing; and explain the borrowing process. This course will present different options for funding a small business. Options reviewed will include SBA loans, venture capital, angel funds and others. The course will also review requirements for owner's investment.

Intensive training in the specific concepts and skills related to general business/leadership functions. Industries have been using different types of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for years. This course will focus on Prompting- how to talk to the GenAI tools. It is a transferable skill across all the different AI technologies and it does not require technical backgrounds or coding. This course surveys relevant use cases for prompting, examines case studies and best practices, and explores the legal, ethical, and compliance frameworks emerging in the AI ecosystem. No technical background required.

Online auctions match buyers with sellers in a global marketplace for almost any item. If you've ever dreamed of working from home or just earning extra income by buying and selling goods online, our experienced instructors will guide you every step of the way. You'll learn how to create titles that get noticed, how to craft advertising copy that sells items quickly and for top dollar, and how to create and upload photos of the items you are selling. You'll also learn how to safely conduct financial transactions, how to accept credit card payments, and how to pack and ship any item hassle-free. If you're a buyer, you'll learn how to value almost any item up for auction, how to get the best possible price, how to protect yourself against fraud, and how to compete effectively against other bidders.

Legal aspect of small business start-ups. A study of choosing the right attorney, organizing the business structure, and creating the right entity to match the intended business goal, naming the business, contracting (includes commercial transactions, sale/purchase/employment agreements, and leases), learning about employees versus independent contractors, obtaining permits, and paying taxes. Includes implications of the Texas Deceptive Practices Act to small business as well as ADA and federal employment laws.

A study of the concepts and skills necessary for starting and operating a small business including planning, organizing, staffing, managing, financing, marketing, and accounting functions.

Do you have training or knowledge that could be useful to others Have you ever considered becoming a consultant This course is designed to help those who wish to set up a consulting practice get started. Topics will include skills assessments, pricing policies, contracting, marketing, and more.