The Power of Planning: Advanced Strategies to Take Your Business to the Next Level workshop featuring Akira Hirai from Cayenne Consulting

“If you fail to plan, you’re planning to fail.” – Unknown.

A solid business plan, no matter the size of the business, is a key component to creating a solid foundation for success. On February 19, 2010, the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC) will host The Power of Planning: Advanced Strategies to Take Your Business to the Next Level. This hands-on, half-day workshop features renowned consultant Akira Hirai from Cayenne Consulting. Hirai has been featured in a number of publications including Inc. magazine.

This hands-on half-day workshop takes place from 12noon (registration time) until 5:30 p.m.  It will cover topics such as:

• Getting started on the planning process
• Value proposition and the business model
• Analyzing your market and competition
• Operational and financial planning
• Creating a pitch deck and bringing it all home

Take home materials will be available for attendees.

The cost is $20 to attend and includes refreshments.

RSVP to: Marla Guzzo (mguzzo@ssmic.com or 942-7927 ext. 3130)

Akira Hirai
Founder and Managing Director, Cayenne Consulting

Akira helps entrepreneurs get their act together before they meet with investors. He does this mostly by developing VC-grade business plans, financial forecasts, and investor presentations.

In a world where perhaps one in 200 business plans ever get funded, well over half of his clients have done so.

Before starting Cayenne Consulting in 2001, Akira was the founder of two Silicon Valley Internet companies during the height of the dot-com bubble.

Previously, Akira held various management positions at Salomon Brothers, a New York investment bank.

At other points in his career, he has also worked in financial risk management; software engineering; sales management; and advertising and graphic design.

And finally, Akira earned his B.A. in Engineering Sciences at Harvard University.