Funding Ready: Build a Business Plan That Lenders Will Back is a three-module program designed for growth-focused entrepreneurs who want to strategically scale their businesses and secure financing. The course equips participants with the tools to develop a lender-ready business plan, accurate financial projections, and a compelling pitch for lenders and investors. Through interactive activities, worksheets, and real-world data, entrepreneurs learn to position their business for sustainable growth and confidently present their case for funding. 
 
By the end of the program, participants will: 
- Have a complete business plan that highlights growth potential. 
- Master financial forecasting and key ratios lenders use. 
- Understand their competitive position using market data and analysis. 
- Build confidence in pitching to lenders and investors. 

Module 1: Building a Strong Foundation for Growth 

This module introduces the purpose and value of a business plan, not just as a roadmap for growth but also as a credibility tool with lenders and investors. Participants learn how to conduct market research (both primary and secondary), perform a competitive analysis, and review Government of Canada small business performance data. They begin drafting their plan using templates and tools such as Business Link’s interactive builder. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
- Business plans align strategy and build lender confidence. 
- Market research provides critical insights for positioning. 
- Competitive analysis identifies strengths, gaps, and opportunities. 

Module 2: Financials & Funding Readiness 

This module focuses on financial literacy and readiness for securing financing. Participants build 24-month financial projections, understand the difference between cash flow and profit, and learn to construct a balance sheet from projections. They are introduced to key financial ratios used by lenders, such as DSCR, Gross Profit Margin, Current Ratio, and Debt-to-Equity. A SWOT analysis and Risk Mitigation Strategy are integrated to connect financial data with risk management. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
- Financial projections are critical to proving repayment capacity. 
- Lenders evaluate businesses using standard ratios and benchmarks. 
- Risk mitigation strategies convert SWOT weaknesses and threats into actionable plans. 

Module 3: Telling Your Story to Lenders & Investors 

The final module emphasizes communication. Participants learn how to craft a concise, effective executive summary that highlights their business model, market positioning, financials, and growth goals. They develop and practice their pitch using a storyboard framework. The module also includes a loan interview roleplay, giving participants practice answering tough questions and receiving feedback. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
- A strong executive summary is often the first (and most important) impression. 
- Pitches must be clear, compelling, and lender-focused. 
- Confidence in delivery can significantly influence funding outcomes.