Boss up Business Academy

This Boss Up Business Academy (BUBA) is a 6-week course designed to guide aspiring entrepreneurs through the critical stages of starting and growing a business. The program focuses on the startup phase, business planning, sales and marketing strategies, customer acquisition, pricing, and preparing for a business pitch. Each week, participants will engage in targeted discussions and activities that build foundational skills and knowledge, essential for launching and sustaining a successful business.

Week 1: Introduction to Entrepreneurship & The Startup Phase

Date: Monday, September 23rd | 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Understanding Entrepreneurship:

What does it mean to be an entrepreneur?

Identifying business opportunities

Building a strong foundation for your business

Startup Essentials:

Defining your vision and mission

Legal structure: LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship

Funding and bootstrapping your startup

Homework: Develop a clear business idea and outline your vision/mission.

Week 2: Crafting a Strong Business Plan

Date: Monday, September 30th | 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Why a Business Plan Matters:

Key components of a business plan

Defining goals and objectives

Sections of a Business Plan:

Executive summary, company description, market analysis

Organizational structure, product line, and services

Homework: Begin drafting the executive summary and company description of your business plan.

Week 3: Sales & Marketing Strategies

Date: Monday, October 7th | 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Introduction to Sales and Marketing:

Difference between sales and marketing

Building a brand identity

Marketing Strategies:

Digital marketing (social media, SEO, email marketing)

Traditional marketing (flyers, word-of-mouth, networking)

Identifying your target market

Homework: Develop a simple marketing plan for your business.

Week 4: Customer Acquisition and Retention

Date: Monday, October 14th | 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Understanding Your Customers:

Identifying and profiling your ideal customers

Creating a customer journey map

Customer Acquisition Channels:

Online platforms, partnerships, and referrals

Networking and community engagement

Customer Retention Strategies:

Importance of customer service and follow-up

Building long-term relationships with clients

Homework: Develop a customer acquisition and retention strategy.

Week 5: Pricing and Revenue Models

Date: Monday, October 21st | 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Pricing Fundamentals:

How to price your product/service for the market

Pricing strategies: cost-plus, value-based, competitive pricing

Testing and adjusting your pricing

Revenue Models:

Subscription, one-time sales, freemium models

Finding the best fit for your business

Homework: Develop a pricing structure and identify your business's most appropriate revenue model.

Week 6: Finalizing Your Business Plan & Pitch Preparation

Date: Monday, October 28th | 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Business Plan Finalization:

Completing your business plan (financial projections, operations plan)

Importance of a solid financial model

Pitching Your Business:

How to present your business plan to investors, lenders, or partners

Creating an elevator pitch

Practicing and delivering a confident pitch

Homework: Finalize your business plan and prepare a 3-minute pitch.

De’Voe Sherman Facilitator Bio:

De’Voe Sherman’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, De'Voe's early years were marked by significant challenges. His mother, a remarkable woman who gave birth to him at the age of 14 after enduring 18 hours of labor, instilled in him a profound sense of perseverance and strength. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood plagued by abuse, violence, and poverty, De'Voe faced numerous barriers both visible and invisible. Despite these hardships and a constant underlying fear, he was driven by a determination to overcome his circumstances.

Education was a significant challenge in his environment, with limited resources and opportunities. The constant worry about losing what he had achieved and the desire to make his ancestors proud fueled De’Voe’s drive to succeed. Though entrepreneurship was not on his radar growing up, life’s challenges and his resilience led him to this path.

Educational Background and Early Influences

De’Voe graduated from Woodward High School in 2012 and went on to study Political Science/Liberal Arts at the University of Cincinnati. His experiences in high school and his involvement with the church shaped his commitment to community service and personal development. Through his educational journey and personal growth, he recognized the importance of helping others navigate their challenges.

Entrepreneurial Success and Community Impact

Now recognized as one of Cincinnati’s Premier Millennial Entrepreneurs, De’Voe Sherman is known for his role as "The Electrified Speaker." His entrepreneurial journey spans various roles, including business consultant, blogger, and community organizer. De’Voe operates two significant ventures: First Generation Leaders of America (FGLA) and Shermans Consulting Firm.

As the Educational Director for FGLA, De’Voe leads a whole-person-centered mentoring and academic support program. FGLA focuses on providing life skills and motivation to school-aged youth, aiming to relate authentically to students and encourage their academic success.

In addition to his work with FGLA, De’Voe is a business coach at Shermans Consulting Firm. With over six years of experience, he offers coaching services that help leaders at various career stages to enhance their strengths and address development needs. His approach is tailored to the unique culture of each organization, providing actionable feedback and support to drive success.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

De’Voe Sherman is deeply committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. His work with FGLA and other community initiatives underscores his dedication to serving underrepresented communities. He has also been involved in political campaigns and community projects that advocate for social change and diversity.

Credentials and Recognition

De’Voe’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including:

• 101.1 The Wiz Cincinnati Trailblazer 30 under 30 Nominee
• Certified Crypto and Business Coach
• Urban League Young Professional Affirmed Nominee
• Cohear Bridgebuilder
• African American Cultural Resource Center University of Cincinnati Community Engagement Nominee
• University of Cincinnati Upward Bound Community Career Award

He has been featured in various media outlets, including Channel 9, Channel 5, USA Today, Voyage Ohio, and the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Inspiration and Vision

De’Voe Sherman’s journey from adversity to success is an inspiring example of how resilience and determination can lead to profound personal and professional achievements. His story is a powerful reminder that despite the struggles, one can rise above and make a meaningful impact in the community. De’Voe believes in unity and consistency as essential elements for success and continues to drive positive change through his entrepreneurial ventures and community involvement.

Host or Publisher De'Voe Sherman