Entrepreneurship Unlocked: A 10-Part Journey to Business Success

FOR OFNEDA MEMBERS ONLY

Sarah Hopkins | Facilitator

About the Presenter

Sarah Hopkins is Turtle Clan of the Lenni Lenape, whose people were displaced from Lenapehoking (modern-day New York City) to Delaware Nation in southwestern Ontario. A Day School survivor, she was raised by strong matriarchs whose resilience shaped her commitment to uplifting Indigenous voices.

In 2018, Sarah founded Three Sisters Consulting, dedicated to supporting Indigenous success across business, professional, and community spaces, where she serves as Matriarch. She is an active community leader, having served in elected and board roles, and works across sectors including government, non-profits, and industry on Indigenous engagement, economic development, and policy.

Grounded by her family and community, Sarah continues to advocate for and connect Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island.

Session Overview

A business plan is more than a document for the bank. It's a roadmap for where you're going and how you'll get there. In this session, we'll walk through the key components of a strong business plan in plain language, with real examples. Whether you're writing your first plan or updating an existing one, you'll leave with a clear structure and the content to fill it in. We'll also to use your business plan to apply for financing or grants and how to make it reflect who you are and where you come from.

Topics Covered

•       Why every entrepreneur needs a business plan, even a simple one

•       The key sections of a business plan explained simply

•       Executive summary: how to say it all in one page

•       Market analysis: understanding your industry and your competition

•       Operations plan: how your business runs day to day

•       Financial projections: what lenders and funders want to see

•       How to incorporate Indigenous identity and values into your plan

•       Using your business plan to apply for financing or government support

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

•       Identify the key sections of a business plan

•       Draft an executive summary for your business

•       Complete a one-page market analysis

•       Leave with a business plan template you can build on after the session

Note: Participants are encouraged  to bring any existing business plan, notes, or ideas to the session.

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