Money Smart for Small Business is a new instructor-led training curriculum developed jointly by FDIC and SBA. The 10 modules in this curriculum provide introductory training for new and aspiring entrepreneurs on the basics to organizing and managing a business. In addition to grounding participants in the basics, the curriculum serves as a foundation for more advanced training and technical assistance.
FDIC and SBA invite stakeholders to order and begin teaching this free curriculum. It is designed to be delivered to new or operating small business owners – persons without formal business training – by financial institutions, small business development centers (SBDCs), city/county economic development offices, faith-based organizations and others. The curriculum is a tool for bank-community partnerships. For example, bank staff could deliver the curriculum in collaboration with small business resource providers.
To order the curriculum please click Order Money Smart for Small Business.
The 10 Training Modules
The topics for the training modules were selected as a result of focus groups and interviews with small business technical assistance practitioners.
Eligibility
No certifications are required to use the curriculum. Those delivering the curriculum may find it helpful to have experience in the delivery of training, technical assistance or coaching to small businesses.
Training Alliance
The FDIC recognizes select organizations that deliver the Money Smart for Small Business curriculum through the Money Smart Alliance Program. Potential Alliance Partners should be able to conduct and market the training in their community. They should be able to provide follow-up training, referrals, or technical support to graduates of this training.
Alliance partners can participate in a quarterly online town hall to discuss experiences with the training and share best practices for improving effectiveness.
Interested in joining the Training Alliance? Want to know your next steps?
Check here for more information on next steps for organizations interested in becoming members of the Training Alliance and delivering Money Smart for Small Business in their communities.
How the Program Works
Core Curriculum
It starts with the core curriculum—10 modules presenting introductory information on running a small business from a financial standpoint. Designed to provide the most essential information in approximately one hour, the modules can be taught in any order. Each module consists of an instructor’s guide, participant’s take-home manual, and overheads.
Peer Learning
The end of the coursework is just the beginning. Instructors are invited to consider organizing and hosting forums to enable workshop participants to meet regularly to support one another after the training, as well connect participants with other programs and resources to support their business goals.
Check-in Calls
Through the FDIC’s Money Smart Alliance, those delivering the curriculum will share best practices, problem-solve common issues, and provide the feedback to FDIC necessary for the continuous improvement of the core curriculum.
Read more about the modules in detail.
