Market Research: Understanding Your Customers

Teaches participants to research their market, define their ideal customer, and use competitive analysis to sharpen their value proposition.

Financing Your Business: From Loan Preparation to Approval

Demystifies the lending landscape SBA loans, microloans, lines of credit, and grants and walks participants through building a bankable loan package.

Creating a Business Plan for Your Business

Guides participants through building a one-page strategic plan with clear goals, milestones, and metrics — turning vision into an actionable roadmap.

About the Course

You've got a business idea burning in your heart, but you're not sure where to start. Maybe you're worried about making financial mistakes, or you're unsure how to navigate the business world while staying true to your faith-based values. Here's the truth: you don't have to choose between being a godly steward and running a successful business. This course brings together the best of both worlds. You'll learn practical, proven business strategies—from formation and financing to market research and cash management—all built on the foundation of biblical stewardship principles. Whether you're starting from scratch or scaling an existing venture, you'll walk away with a clear roadmap, actionable strategies, and the confidence to make wise decisions. Plus, we'll show you how to tap into government procurement opportunities that many small business owners never discover. Your faith and your business success aren't in conflict—they're partners. Let's build something great together.

About Your Instructor

The Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) at Southern University transforms lives and communities by empowering entrepreneurs to launch with confidence and supporting business owners as they grow sustainably. Through no-cost, confidential advising, results-driven training programs and comprehensive market research, they equip Louisiana’s business community with the tools, insights and strategies needed to compete, innovate and succeed. With nine regional centers serving all 64 parishes and the statewide Center for Business Growth and Innovation, the LSBDC has been a catalyst for small business success since 1983. For more than four decades, they have helped transform ideas into viable enterprises, strengthened established companies and advanced economic vitality across Louisiana. Their work ensures that entrepreneurs have access to expert guidance, practical solutions and a trusted partner at every stage of their business journey.

What You'll Learn

1 Chapter · 6 Lessons

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Week 1: Small Business 101 - Getting Started

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Week 2: Market Research: Understanding Your Customers

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Week 3: AI Credentials

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Week 4: Financing Your Business & Cash Mgmt. 101

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Week 5: Creating a Business Plan

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Week 6: Getting Certified & Doing Procurement

Ready to Build Your Faith-Centered Business?

You've waited long enough. Stop second-guessing yourself and start building the business you've always dreamed of. This program gives you the biblical foundation and practical strategies you need to succeed. Your next chapter starts today.

Enroll Now and Start Your Journey