design an in-house ecosystem

 Running a successful small business resource program requires consistency, relevant resources, and trust from the intended client and community. When the program's identity and purpose are clearly defined, it makes it easier to position the program as a reliable source of business support. We recommend a facilitated planning session with program staff, board members, or advisory committee members consider and come to a consensus on program purpose, day to day operations, and ongoing strategic plans. 

Committing to a business programming direction is a big step and organizers should be clear about requirements from the initial application, to the program contract or lease, to the pre-defined participation and graduation requirements. Setting clear intake, program expectations and support systems ensures that the right clients find your program and that they'll be successful. 

 When considering how to best manage the plethora of processes, incubator and business support program organizers may do well to consider investing in or developing a customer relationship management (CRM) system like Incutrack or Neoserra to automate processes makes it easier to focus on support client businesses. Participating in international professional development communities such as inBia can also provide helpful resources and industry standards. 

 Any programming created for entrepreneurs must speak directly to the needs of existing and prospective clients. After development of the mission, vision, and business plan for your program, we recommend a survey and interview process for a sample of regional business owners to serve as listening sessions for short term and long-term help needed. 

This information can also be used to inform how any physical space is used, virtual service development, types of classes, programming, and assistance needed, and additional opportunities for support.

Moving forward, this information can be used to inform and develop a customized program and curriculum for your needs. 

 Entrepreneurial program and incubator leaders must be consistently mindful of their financial model. It’s important to be creative on opportunities for revenue generation, including a deeper financial review into potential grants, sponsorships programming, and virtual support.