Anyone can start a small business. You don’t need a university degree or a friend who works at a bank. But you do need knowledge, a plan, and hard work to get your business off the ground.
Starting a business is risky if you don’t plan.
At SCORE, America’s business startup expert, we have developed a list of 20 items we want you to consider doing to help you manage the risk of starting a business. This list, SCORE’s Small Business Essentials Startup Task List, is your planning roadmap and lets you plan your new business step-by-step.
SCORE’s Small Business Essentials Workshop Series was developed to help anyone who is starting a business get the skills and knowledge to complete the business startup task list. We have streamlined our workshops to cover these key activities so that you are prepared to accomplish them after each workshop. All the workshops are two to three hours in length, and taught by experienced SCORE Mentors and free to attend.
Workshop Information
Scroll through & learn more about the workshops in the series! Workshop Schedule
AI-Powered Business Planning: Create a Quick Business Plan in 3 Hours
Creates a streamlined business plan using the Lean Canvas model, helping you clarify your idea, define your value, and map the core building blocks needed to launch quickly and with confidence.
Successfully Starting A New Business in WA
Covers essential steps for launching legally and confidently, including choosing an entity, securing licenses and insurance, and understanding what’s required to build a strong foundation in Washington State.
Strategies to Identify and Reach Your Target Customers
Guides you through defining your ideal customer, crafting value-driven messaging, and developing a focused marketing approach that helps you connect with the audiences most likely to buy from you.
Increase Sales and Profits with Pricing and Distribution Strategies
Explores how to price your products or services effectively, evaluate profit drivers, and choose distribution methods that strengthen revenue, improve margins, and position your business for sustainable growth.
Digital Marketing to Grow Your Business
Introduces the core tools and tactics for building an online presence, increasing visibility, and converting customers through social media, websites, and digital outreach designed for small business growth.
Financial Basics for New Small Businesses
Breaks down startup costs, sales forecasting, and cash-flow planning, giving you the financial understanding needed to project profitability, track performance, and make informed business decisions.
Taxes on Washington Businesses and Business Owners
Helps you understand federal, state, and local tax obligations, how to plan ahead for payments, and what systems to put in place so you can stay compliant, avoid surprises, and manage your tax responsibilities.
Building a Formal Business Plan (Optional)
Shows you how to assemble a lender-ready business plan that clearly outlines your goals, financials, strategy, and operational structure—ideal for securing loans, leases, or presenting your business professionally.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact greaterseattle@scorevolunteer.org
Ready for the challenge and reward of starting something of your very own?
