Strategic Planning Simplified: Building a Roadmap for Your Business Success

Running a business without a clear plan can leave you reacting to what feels urgent instead of focusing on what matters.

This in-person training is designed to help you step back, get clear, and build a direction for your business that is practical and aligned with your goals.

This session launches the Small Business United Training Series, part of the United Way of Forsyth County’s Small Business Circle. The series supports local business owners through learning, connection, and shared growth.

Event Details

Date:                 April 27, 2026
Time:                 2:00 – 3:30 PM
Location:        United Way of Forsyth County, 301 North Main Street, Suite 1700, Winston-Salem, NC

Registration is free for Small Business Circle members and $15 for the general public. Space is limited to support a meaningful, interactive session.

What You Will Work On

This is a working session focused on helping you create direction, not just ideas.

You will be guided through a simple approach to:

Clarify where your business is headed
Reconnect to your purpose and priorities
Define the value you provide and who you serve
Begin building a strategic roadmap you can continue to use

You do not need a perfect plan. You need one that works and supports how you actually run your business.

Who This Is For

This session is designed for small business owners who:

Feel busy but want more focus
Are making decisions without a clear plan
Want structure without overcomplicating their process
Are ready to be more intentional about how they grow

Facilitator

Dr. Shinika McKiever, CFRE

Chief Development Officer, United Way of Forsyth County
Chief Creative Officer, The McKiever Group Creative Company

Dr. McKiever brings more than 15 years of experience in strategy, fundraising, and leadership across nonprofit, corporate, and higher education settings. She has raised over $15 million for mission-driven organizations and has led work with institutions including UNC Greensboro, North Carolina A&T State University, and Wells Fargo. At United Way of Forsyth County, she leads fundraising strategy and corporate engagement, working alongside community partners to advance long-term impact.

About the Small Business Circle

The Small Business Circle is a network of local businesses committed to supporting the wellbeing of Forsyth County. It provides a way for businesses to stay connected, give back, and engage with other leaders who care about the community.

The Small Business United Training Series is one of the ways the Small Business Circle supports its members through learning and connection.

About United Way of Forsyth County

United Way of Forsyth County brings people and resources together to solve challenges that no single organization can address alone. Through partnerships and strategic investments, United Way supports programs that strengthen financial stability, support children and students, and help families meet basic needs.

Each year, this work reaches more than 43,000 residents across Forsyth County and helps create pathways to stability and opportunity.

Proceeds support the work of United Way of Forsyth County and help expand access to resources and opportunities for local families.

Small Business United Training: Strategic Planning

UWFC Small Business Circle