Small Business Basics

Program Description

Entrepreneurs create goods and services to bring to market, and their success depends on effectively managing all aspects of business operations. Keeping track of revenue and expenses by learning how to read and create financial statements such as balance sheets, profit and loss and cash flow statements is critical to business sustainability.  Setting appropriate pricing for goods and services directly affects profitability, and protecting the associated intellectual property is critical to maintaining market share and a competitive advantage. Strong negotiation skills and strategies will give business owners an edge when dealing with suppliers and partners.  Finally, being able to communicate the company’s mission and vision through compelling presentations enables entrepreneurs to attract employees, customers, and investors, increasing the likelihood of business success.  In this course series, students will learn foundational knowledge necessary for starting and operating a business.   

Students entering this program should have good planning and organizational skills; strong oral and written communication skills; strong interpersonal skills; and good problem-solving skills. 

Students will be better prepared to start their own business entity or manage a small business. Careers in this field are available in a broad range of privately held companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Additional career information may be found in Career Coach: https://ccbcmd.emsicc.com/

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this Continuing Education Workforce Certificate, students will be able to:

1. identify the skills needed to effectivley manage a new or existing business venture,

2. develop pricing and profitability strategies,

3. identify strategies to protect the intellectual property of a business,

3. interpret basic financial statements,

4. create and deliver compelling business presentations, and

5. apply negotiation strategies and techniques to produce favorable business outcomes.

CCBC Pathway & Track

Business Pathway: Business Leadership Track - Pathways are designed to help you meet your academic and career goals by aligning related courses and programs.  Pathway students participate in a variety of activities that help explore career opportunities in their field of study.  You can meet with a CCBC advisor who help align — or realign — your educational plan with the Pathway that best supports you and your goals.

Program Credentials

CCBC Credential: Students will be awarded a Continuing Education Workforce Certificate and have access to a Continuing Education academic record (transcript).

Financial Aid and Payment Options

We offer financial aid by packaging public and private funding options to those who qualify, in select Continuing Education courses and programs. Additional opportunities for financial support include partial payment options through Nelnet Business Solutions and tuition waivers for those who qualify. Resources outside of CCBC may also be available through employer/sponsor paid tuition, the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), and your local office of workforce development.

Some CE Workforce Development Certificate Programs are eligible for early high school funding through Maryland Blueprint for qualifying BCPS high school students.  Please check with your School Counseling Office to determine your eligibility for the BCPS Tuition Benefit Program. 

Length of Training

6 months.

Course series offered at various CCBC sites and remotely via Zoom.

Program Requirements

High School Diploma or GED recommended.

Application Process

To apply, go to www.ccbcmd.edu/apply and complete the CCBC Continuing Education Workforce Certificate program application.  An email will then be sent with program information and any additional requirements necessary to apply for the program.

Open Entry – No screening or documentation required.

Prior Learning Assessment

This program has no options for obtaining course waiver(s) for prior learning.

Program Course Sequence

Additional Information

Course Substitutions:  MGT773 Presentation Skills for Professionals for MGT 903.

Related Programs: Essential Skills for Entrepreneurs, The Creative Entrepreneur

Program Contact Information

Coordinator: Tatiana Nelson-Joseph | tnelsonjoseph@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-5842 | Hunt Valley 109 

Administrative Assistant: Kristal Parker| kparker3@ccbcmd.edu​ | 443-840-4483 | OMC 302