


Turn your great idea into a profitable business by getting the expertise you need from these ELEVATIONLAB SPARK classes. Class delivery method is noted at each class.
ELEVATIONLAB™ NEW VENTURE (in person)
Do you dream of owning your own business? Are you ready for a realistic perspective on whether or not people really want to buy what you want to sell?
This program helps aspiring entrepreneurs look at all aspects of their business idea, exploring the feasibility of their new venture and learning how to develop a viable business. This business creation program is fast-paced, interactive, fun and energizing.
The Small Business Development Center at UMKC’s ELEVATIONLAB™ offers the program in an accelerated time frame to let potential entrepreneurs get started with their businesses as soon as possible. Guest speakers and entrepreneurs bring their real-world experience to make topics come alive.
Participants develop their businesses through the group activities and coaching from professional business counselors. The class materials include FastTrac, GrowthWheel® and other elements with step-by-step activities and in-depth information. You don’t just learn about business, you work on your own business venture throughout the program.
Dates: October 3 – October 31, 2023 OR January 16 – February 13, 2024(attendance at all five sessions is expected)
Time: Tuesdays from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m
Fee: $649 ($150 with scholarship opportunity)
Scholarships: May be available. Your application will be reviewed for these opportunities.
APPLY for scholarships and the class HERE
Join us to get answers to the most frequently asked questions by aspiring entrepreneurs, including:
*Are grants real and available?
*Will the bank lend me money?
*Do I need a business plan?
*Will anyone buy what I’m selling?
What comes first? Let us help put your next steps in order after the myths are busted!
Leave the session with an ACTION PLAN to continue your journey to business ownership and know if you are ready!
Dates: June 4, 2024
Time: 9am – Noon
Location: Delivery method to be decided
*enrollment not yet open – please check back in early 2024
Reading and Understanding Financial Statements (virtual/Zoom)
Learn how to identify key business information that is captured on an income statement and balance sheet in this basic financial class. Participants will learn to calculate several ratios and understand what those ratios mean in terms of business productivity and success. Leave this session with a greater understanding of how to read and interpret financial documents and how to use that information to drive business decisions.
Dates: Nov 14, 2023 or February 27, 2024
Times: 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Fee: $49
Make your payment on our Marketplace
Social Media Mindset: Build Relationships not Clicks! (virtual/Zoom)
Social media can be an amazing tool for your small business. Learn how to use those channels to create content that can equal not just sales, but lifelong customers!
Dates: Nov 7, 2023 OR February 20, 2024
Times: 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Fee: $49
Make your payment on our Marketplace
Rebecca has been an amazing mentor to me through our business consulting relationship. Her insight is invaluable and she never hesitates to tell you the truth – even if it’s difficult to hear. That’s what makes her stand out. She’s always going to support you and do what’s needed to help you succeed but she’s not afraid to tell you if something is amiss. She’s quirky and brilliant. She’s your biggest cheerleader but also your unbiased critic. I’m so grateful to have her.
Dani Hatch Founder/CEO Glownar