Business Lab: Catalyst Series Two by LA Metro Chamber

Description

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Ready to strengthen your systems and set your business up for sustainable growth?

Take your business to the next level with Catalyst — the second series in the LA Metro Chamber’s Business Lab.

Designed for entrepreneurs ready to move from understanding their business to managing it strategically, Catalyst helps you build stronger systems, smarter financials, and the confidence to lead growth and change.

This program features guest presenters from the local business community who bring real-world expertise to each session. Presenters share practical insights, lead discussion, and support participants as they apply concepts directly to their own businesses.

Program Outcomes

By the end of the series, you will:

• Develop a working budget and cash-flow forecast that guide decisions.
• Strengthen your operations and systems for efficiency and scalability.
• Identify staffing, partnerships, and resources that support growth.
• Deepen understanding of your customers and refine your pricing model.
• Build adaptability and accountability to lead through change.
  
  

Class Dates & Descriptions

All classes meet weekly, 3:00–5:30 PM, at the LA Metro Chamber, 415 Lisbon Street, Lewiston. Includes workbook materials, light refreshments, and access to expert instructors.

March 2nd – Setting the Framework for Growth 

Sam Herriot & Shanna Cox, LA Metro Chamber of Commerce

Orientation, introductions, and goal setting. Define what growth means for your business, explore the role of change, and set personal, financial, and operational goals for the months ahead.

March 9th – Financial Planning for Growth, Part 1: Building Your Budget 

Tom Kuklinski, AVCOG Small Business Loan Officer & Jon Janson SBDC Certified Business Advisor

Create a 12-month business budget. Understand fixed and variable costs, break-even points, and how to use budgets to manage and grow your business.

March 16 – Financial Planning for Growth, Part 2: Cash Flow & Forecasting

Dion Olmstead, SBDC Certified Business Advisor

Turn your budget into a working forecast. Learn how money moves through your business and practice scenario planning to strengthen financial resilience.

March 23 – People, Partners & Performance
Shanna Cox, President + CEO, LA Metro Chamber of Commerce
Explore capacity and delegation. Learn when to hire, outsource, or partner — and how to manage change effectively as your business expands.

March 30 – Understanding Your Customer

Aimee Goodwin, Warp & Weft
Identify your best customers and understand what drives their decisions. Use that insight to refine your offering, align your business model, and ultimately adjust your marketing to strengthen profitability.

April 6 – Growth Plan Integration Workshop
Sam Herriot, LA Metro Chamber of Commerce 
Pull it all together. Combine your tools and insights into a clear roadmap for growth, share key takeaways with peers, and prepare for the optional Showcase.

April 13 (Optional) – Showcase & Reflection
Sam Herriot, LA Metro Chamber of Commerce 
Celebrate your progress and share your growth journey with peers, mentors, and sponsors in a supportive, collaborative setting.

Program Details

7 weekly sessions | 2.5–3 hours each
Includes templates, guest instruction, and one-on-one advising opportunities.

Registration & Early Bird Pricing
Registration starts at $180. Sign up by February 9 to take advantage of our early bird discount! 
Location: LA Metro Chamber, 415 Lisbon Street, Lewiston
Light refreshments provided

For questions
Sam Herriot - Sam@LAMetroChamber.com