Be Strategic: What is it and why should I apply?

Be Strategic is a six-week program designed for local, non-competing businesses focused on growth. In a collaborative group setting, business owners work with an EFund advisor and subject matter experts to create a strategic plan, share insights, and address key topics like mission, industry trends, marketing, finances, and long-term goals. By the end of the course, participants will have a comprehensive and actionable strategic plan tailored to drive their growth and success.

Be Strategic brings together business owners from diverse industries to collaborate, share insights, and tackle common challenges while navigating a comprehensive curriculum together.

Who is it for?

Be Strategic is for growth-oriented business owners in northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. Ideal participants have been in business fora couple of years, are ready to take the next steps in growing their business and are willing to be held accountable to reach their goals.

What will I gain from this course?

• ‍Clarity on Business Purpose: Define your mission, vision, and core values to guide your decision-making and strategy.‍
• Industry Insights: Identify trends and opportunities in your industry to stay competitive and relevant.
•  Actionable Marketing Strategies: Develop a marketing plan tailored to your business goals and audience.‍
• Long-Term Vision: Refine your 3-year,5-year and 10-year target to align your actions with your long-term aspirations.‍
• Comprehensive Strategic Plan: Leave the course with a clear, actionable plan to achieve your growth objectives.‍
• Collaborate with Peers: Network with non-competing business owners from diverse industries to exchange ideas and share valuable insights.

How Do I Apply?

We are offering a handful of courses throughout our region in 2025. Dates and locations below are subject to change. Application links coming soon.

• Ashland, WI – Mondays starting March 3 - April 7
• Itasca County, MN – Thursdays starting April 3 –May 8
• Duluth, MN – Tuesdays starting April 22 – May 27
• Superior, WI – Mondays starting August 18 -September 29
• Eveleth, MN – Mondays starting October 6 –November 10

* The cost of the course is $600 per business. Some scholarship funding is available through the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation and Ashland Area Development Corporation’s FUNDiversity grant.

*No payment information is needed to apply. Upon selection you will be sent an invoice, which must be paid prior to attending the class.

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