From Idea to Open: Building a Business With a Strong Foundation

Jul
16
2026
Thu, Jul 16 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Topic: Start-up Assistance

Have a business idea but aren't sure where to start?

Every successful business begins with a strong foundation. Whether you're exploring an idea or preparing to launch, this workshop will help you take the first steps with greater confidence and clarity.

Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and new business owners, this session breaks down the startup process into practical, easy-to-understand concepts—no business background required. You'll learn how to determine if your idea meets a real market need, identify your target customers, estimate startup costs, choose a business structure that fits your goals, and develop a simple roadmap for turning your idea into a business.

In this session, participants will explore:

  • Validating your business idea and market demand
  • Identifying your ideal customer
  • Understanding startup costs and creating a basic budget
  • Choosing the right business structure for your goals
  • Setting realistic expectations for your first year in business
  • Building a simple business plan to guide your next steps

Whether you're still refining your idea or ready to take action, you'll leave with practical tools and a clearer understanding of what it takes to build a business with confidence.

Speaker(s): Heidi Melancon, Associate State Director, Louisiana Small Business Development Center Lauren Titus, Communications Specialist, Louisiana Small Business Development Center Britni Lilley, Business Consultant, Louisiana Small Business Development Center at LSUA

Co-Sponsor(s): Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce U.S. Small Business Administration Louisiana Economic Development


Fee: No Cost

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Location

Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce
1118 Third Street Alexandria, LA 71301