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Back to Basics

From Fundamentals to Growth,
Build Your Business with Confidence

Back to Basics

Back to Basics is an 8-week hands-on training series designed for our Members and their team who want to establish a solid foundation for their businesses. This program addresses common skill gaps in areas such as business operations, financial management, and marketing, enabling participants to confidently manage and grow their ventures.

Through weekly interactive workshops, participants will learn essential tools, including invoicing systems, budgeting methods, and marketing strategies, while also developing their business plans. By the end of the program, they will possess the knowledge, resources, and confidence needed to operate a sustainable business.

Past Trainings

Back to Basics

Week 1 – Laying the Groundwork

📅 When: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
🕑 Time: 12 pm-1 pm
📍Where: IN-PERSON
🗣️Speaker: Kenyatta Trice, Founder of TRICE Occupational Consulting Solutions (TRICE OCS)

Description: Laying the Groundwork is an introductory class designed to help aspiring and early-stage business owners understand the fundamental requirements of starting and operating a business. Participants will learn what it truly means to run a business, including the essential administrative and organizational responsibilities involved. The class covers completing required forms, licenses, and documentation, as well as setting up practical systems for invoicing, email communication, record-keeping, and file management. By the end of the session, participants will have the foundational tools and structure needed to operate their business efficiently and compliantly.

Back to Basics

Week 2 – Building Your Business Plan

📅 When: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
🕑 Time: 12 pm-1 pm
📍Where: IN-PERSON
🗣️Speaker: Kenyatta Trice, Founder of TRICE Occupational Consulting Solutions (TRICE OCS)

Description: is a practical, hands-on class designed to help business owners create a clear and actionable roadmap for their business. Participants will learn the purpose and value of a business plan and how it can be used to guide decision-making, secure funding, and support long-term growth. The class walks participants through conducting basic market research, defining their target audience, and outlining their products or services, operations, and marketing strategies. By the end of the session, participants will have written clear business goals and actionable next steps that move their business from concept to execution.

Back to Basics

Week 3 – Financial Fundamentals (Part 1)

📅 When: Tuesday, February 17, 2026
🕑 Time: 12 pm-1 pm
📍Where: IN-PERSON
🗣️Speaker: Melisa Murguia, US Bank

Description: Introduces business owners to the core financial concepts needed to manage day-to-day business finances with confidence. Participants will learn the basics of accounts payable and accounts receivable, how to set up a simple and effective bookkeeping system, and how to track income and expenses accurately. The class also explores practical tools and software options that help streamline financial record-keeping, laying the groundwork for informed financial decision-making and long-term business stability.

Back to Basics

Week 4 – Financial Fundamentals (Part 2)

📅 When: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
🕑 Time: 12 pm-1 pm
📍Where: IN-PERSON
🗣️Speaker: Melisa Murguia, US Bank

Description: builds on the concepts introduced in Part 1 by helping business owners understand and use key financial statements to make informed decisions. Participants will learn how to read and interpret a balance sheet, understand the basics of a Profit & Loss (P&L) statement, and monitor the financial health of their business. The class also introduces simple methods for tracking and forecasting cash flow using a chart, empowering participants to anticipate challenges, plan ahead, and maintain financial stability.

Back to Basics

Week 5 – Relationship Building in Banking

📅 When: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
🕑 Time: 12 pm-1 pm
📍Where: IN-PERSON
🗣️Speaker: Alyssia Partida, Point West Credit Union

Description: Gain a deeper understanding of how credit, strong banking relationships, and the right financial tools work together to support and sustain your business success. This session will walk you through how to build and leverage business credit, establish meaningful connections with financial institutions, and utilize tools like loans, lines of credit, and cash flow management systems. By strengthening these key areas, you’ll be better equipped to make informed financial decisions, improve stability, and position your business for long-term growth and opportunity.

Back to Basics

Week 6 – People & Culture

📅 When: Tuesday, March 10, 2026
🕑 Time: 12 pm-1 pm
📍Where: IN-PERSON
🗣️Speaker: Aly’ce Brannon-Reid, MBA, Seat at the Table Consulting

Description: Equips business owners with the foundational knowledge needed to build and manage a small team effectively and compliantly. Participants will explore the key differences between hiring employees and engaging independent contractors, along with best practices for onboarding and training. The class also covers essential labor laws, workers’ compensation requirements, and basic compliance considerations for small teams. In addition, participants will learn practical strategies for employee retention, helping them create a positive, sustainable workplace culture as their business grows.

Back to Basics

Week 7 – Marketing & Branding Foundations

📅 When: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
🕑 Time: 12 pm-1 pm
📍Where: IN-PERSON
🗣️Speaker: Elise Hudson, Lit Designs By E

Description: Marketing & Branding Foundations helps business owners clarify who they serve and how to communicate their value effectively. Participants will learn how to identify and understand their target market, craft a clear and compelling brand message and identity, and select marketing channels that align with their business goals. By the end of the class, participants will have a focused marketing foundation that supports visibility, consistency, and business growth

Back to Basics

Week 8 – Personal Branding

📅 When: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
🕑 Time: 12 pm -1 pm
📍Where: IN-PERSON
🗣️Speaker: Aly’ce Brannon-Reid, MBA, Seat at the Table Consulting

Description: Personal Branding supports business owners in developing a brand that feels authentic, aligned, and visible. This course guides participants in using social media strategically, planning content with purpose, and engaging in networking that builds real relationships rather than just contacts. Emphasis is placed on leveraging relationships and partnerships to increase access to opportunities, build trust, and grow a sustainable and supportive business network.

For more information, contact: education@namc-oregon.org

Meet Our Members Who Completed Back to Basics

Back to Basics - Cohort 1

Cohort 1 (2026)

- Arrakis Professional Services, LLC
- Avalos Kahana Construction, LLC
- Frontline Facilities Management & Maintenance, LLC
- Royal Kingdom Masonry, LLC
- Union Trucking, LLC
- Wise Eyes Renovations, LLC
- RJ Ramos Construction & Electrical, Co

Interested in strengthening your foundation with Back to Basics?

Testimonials

Our Back to Basics trainings help Members strengthen their foundation, build confidence, and take their skills to the next level. Hear directly from participants about their experience and how the program has supported their growth:

Dana Broussard

Arrakis Professional Services had a great time attending the “Back to Basics” class with NAMC hosted by Seat at the Table Consulting.

It was a valuable session focused on Your Brand is Your Legacy, sharpening business fundamentals, and marketing your brand for long-term success.

The discussion highlighted the importance of what strategic posting looks like for small business owners. It was also a great opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and gain practical insights that can be applied right away. Appreciate the shared knowledge.

Aly’ce the founder of “Seat At The Table Consulting” is well spoken, passionate, prepared, very insightful, and displays compassion for others.

Thank you NAMC for the space created for growth and collaboration. Looking forward to putting these lessons into action.

Dana Brousard

Owner

Arrakis Professional Services