The Business Development Program

The Small Business Development Program- Wilmington Hybrid Cohort is a 5-week(May 27th-June 24th 9-10:30am), hands-on program designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who are in the early stages of exploring or developing a business idea. If you’re thinking about starting a business but aren’t sure where to begin, this program will help you build a strong, realistic foundation.

Based on Operation HOPE’s Small Business Development Program, this cohort walks participants step-by-step through what it takes to move from idea to a fully developed, lender-ready business plan. Along the way, you’ll gain a clear understanding of the commitments, decisions, and financial considerations involved in starting a business.

The program is led by Arisha Guerra Fonseca, Bilingual Financial Wellbeing Coach with Operation HOPE, who will guide participants through key business concepts while also emphasizing financial readiness and long-term sustainability.

This hybrid cohort is designed to balance flexibility with connection. Participants will meet in person at Cape Fear Community College's Small Business Center located in Wilmington, NC in Week 1 to kick things off, connect with peers, and begin shaping their ideas. Weeks 2–4 will be held virtually, and Week 5 will wrap up in person with final plan development, reflection, and celebration.

Over the 5 weeks, participants will:

• Explore and define their business idea and value
• Learn how to research their market, customers, and competition
• Understand basic business structures and startup considerations
• Develop a simple marketing and sales approach
• Build a financial plan and explore funding options

Each session builds on the last, so you’ll leave with real progress-not just ideas.

Participants who attend at least 4 out of the 5 sessions will receive a Certificate of Completion.

By the end of the program, you’ll have a clear business concept, a completed plan, and the confidence to take your first steps toward starting your business.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Women's Business Center of NC