COVERLETTER
Gilbert Family Foundation
Attn: Brandi Brown
1074 Woodward Ave.
Detroit, MI 48226
January 14, 2025
Brandi,
Thank you for the opportunity to present the attached proposal for your review. Since 2019, Operations School has impacted nearly 3,000 students through our trainings, workshops and conferences. As one of Metro Detroit’s leading business serving organizations, we pride ourselves on specializing in the not so sexy aspects of entrepreneurship, operations.
In the following proposal, I’ve outlined how Operations School and OPSIDIA can support Gilbert Family Foundation in supporting the economic mobility of metro Detroiters through entrepreneurship through two new programs, CSchool and YSchool. These programs will allow us to deploy our existing infrastructure of the best curriculum, facilitators, technical assistance providers and more while serving expanded audiences of both creative and young entrepreneurs
In further partnership with Gilbert Family Foundation, Operations School has the capacity to expand its reach to those who need access to high quality entrepreneurial training the most; those who are already generating income but who need more business training, and those who will become the next generation of entrepreneurs.
It would be a privilege to continue our partnership through this program and I look forward to speaking with you in greater detail at your convenience.
CEO, Operations School | OPSIDIA
RACHEAL ALLEN MEET YOUR FACILITATOR
Racheal Allen is a Lean Six Sigma certified strategy, systems and operations consultant with nearly twenty years of experience leading and serving Detroit based startups and nonprofits. As a second-generation entrepreneur, she believes entrepreneurship is a pathway out of poverty and credits the entrepreneurial spirit as a catalytic driver of cycle breaking and generational wealth creation. After scaling her first startup into a six-figure insurance agency, she piloted initiatives in the legal, retail and service industries.
Racheal is the Founder and Executive Director of Operations School, a nonprofit business service organization with a mission to train, empower and equip startup and nonprofit leaders with the skills to successfully manage and scale their operations. Since 2019, O School has supported thousands of entrepreneurs through its bootcamps, workshops and conferences.
As CEO of OPSIDIA, Racheal serves as Principal Consultant for a management consulting firm that helps its clients operationalize their visions via entrepreneurial program design, fractional operations support and technical assistance services. Alongside her husband Gerrard, she is also co-founder of Centric Place, a first of its kind hub for arts, culture and entrepreneurship in Metro Detroit.
As an active member of the Detroit small business and nonprofit ecosystems, Racheal has served as a coach, mentor and judge for programs such as Comerica Hatch Detroit, Woman Up and Pitch and Detroit Demo Day. She proudly serves as Funding Board Chair for Black Leaders Detroit and several mission driven organizations. Recent recognition includes being named as Small Business Hero of the Year by Connect313, a Young American Leader Program at Harvard Business School, Oakland County’s 40 Under Forty, DBusiness’ 30 in Their Thirties, Crain’s Detroit Business’ 40 Under Forty, receiving Detroit NAACP Branch’s Great Expectations Award and Crain’s Notable Black Business Leaders. She is also the author of “Get Your Business Legit: A Guide to Starting, Launching and Scaling Your Startup” which is available on Amazon.com.
GET YOUR BUSINESS LEGIT THE CURRICULUM COMPANION
Get Your Business Legit: A Guide to Starting, Launching and Scaling your Startup by Racheal Allen is a comprehensive guide designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners navigate the complex journey of establishing a legally compliant, scalable, and profitable business Drawing from her extensive experience in corporate America, nonprofit sectors, and successful entrepreneurship, Racheal provides actionable insights and practical steps to turn your business dreams into reality.
What Students Will Learn:
Multiplying Your Time: Discover strategies to manage and optimize your time effectively.
Get Branded: Develop a visual identity that resonates with your target audience.
Get Legal: Learn the essential steps to make your business legally compliant, including naming your business, choosing the right structure, and obtaining necessary licenses and permits.
Get Noticed: Craft an engaging elevator pitch and establish a professional visual identity.
Get Funded: Explore various funding options, including leveraging personal savings, sales revenue, trade lines, and accelerators.
Get Operational: Learn the importance of building a strong operational foundation for business sustainability ...and more
All students who participate in Operations School programming receive a copy and supplemental materials from Get Your Business Legit.
QUALIFICATIONS +
EXPERIENCE
MSU | APPLE DEVELOPER ACADEMY
Gilbert Family Foundation 2024-Present
Operations School was selected to augment their existing Apple Developer Academy program by adding six months of our proprietary, operations based curriculum. Program participants receive intensive training in the areas of systems, automation, delegation and scaling strategies for their businesses. Additionally, OPSIDIA provides 1:1 technical assistance to support the small businesses while providing capacity building support.
Reference: Theodore Caldwell Renaissance Manager tc@msu.edu
CAPITAL CONNECT & BLK PRINT
Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) 2023-Present
Operations School was selected to augment MBBA’s existing Capital Connect and BLK Print programs by adding four and two weeks respectively of our proprietary Get Your Business Legit curriculum. Program participants will receive intensive training in the areas of systems, automation, delegation and scaling strategies for their businesses. Additionally, OPSIDIA provides 1:1 technical assistance to support the small businesses while providing capacity building support.
Reference: Charity Dean Chief Executive Officer charity@mdbba.com 313-632-9232
QUALIFICATIONS +
EXPERIENCE
EMPOWER PROGRAM
Lansing Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) 2023-Present
After a nationwide RFP search, Operations School | OPSIDIA was selected to design and entrepreneurial capacity building program to suit the needs of 25 BIPOC owned businesses in Lansing, Michigan. Startups were provided a dedicated Project Manager who worked with the client to develop a wholistic approach to solving current business challenges. Contracted services included bookkeeping, accounting, legal services, project management, marketing/communications and more. Clients received 1:1 and group coaching support both online and in-person.
Reference:
Aurelius Christian Corridor & Commercial Development Specialist aurelius@lansingedc.com 517.331.2773
TECHTOWN INCUBATOR
TechTown Detroit 2019-2022
Since 2019, Operations School | OPSIDIA has partnered with TechTown Detroit to develop a comprehensive curriculum to support minority and BIPOC led startups. Startups were provided with a dedicated Project Manager who worked with the client to develop a wholistic approach to solving current business challenges. Contracted services included bookkeeping, accounting, legal services, project management, marketing/communications and more. Clients received 1:1 and group coaching support both online and in-person.
Reference:
Dr. Marlo Rencher
Dir. of Technology Based Programs
TechTown Detroit mrencher@degc.org (313) 574-6323
SCHOOL IS IN SESSION
Operations School is pleased to present two new offerings created with the unique needs of both creative and youth entrepreneurs in mind.
CSCHOOL - THE BUSINESS ACADEMY FOR CREATIVES
Creative entrepreneurs play a significant role in the U.S. economy, contributing to innovation, job creation, and economic growth With over a $1 1 Trillion contributed to the U S economy by creatives, there are over 673,000 arts-related businesses in the U S , employing approximately 3.48M people, underscoring the sector’s significant presence in the entrepreneurial landscape. However, there are few entrepreneurial resources available to creatives that nurture both their creative talents and their entrepreneurial spirit.
CSchool, a program of Operations School, will provide creative entrepreneurs with a six month, intensive curriculum to help them understand business fundamentals, develop their personal and professional brand, while integrating both elements of their practices.
MODULE 1: GET LEGAL
Objective: How to Create the Appropriate Legal Foundation
Legal Formation and Contracts
Trademarks and Copyrights
Management and Representation
MODULE 2: GET BRANDED
Objective: How to Create a Memorable Personal and Corporate Brand
Developing Your Personal vs Corporate Brand
Identifying and Capitalizing on Your Niche
Storytelling, Press and Media Training
MODULE 3: GET OPERATIONAL
Objective: How to Create Operational Infrastructure
Time Management for Creative Based Work
Streamlining Workflow Tools (Scheduling, Project Management, Invoices)
Creating Diversified Income Streams (ex. Commissions, Education, Workshops)
MODULE 4: MONETIZING YOUR MAGIC
Objective: How to Monetize Your Creative Services
Pricing Strategies for Products and Services
Achieving Financial Goals as a Creative (ex. Buying a home, Planning for Retirement)
Creating and Launching Your Signature Product or Service
SCHOOL IS IN SESSION
MODULE 5: FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR CREATIVES
Objective: Understanding Financial Strategies for Success
Budgeting for Inconsistent Income
Accounting and Tax Strategies for Creatives
Funding and Grant Opportunities for Creatives
MODULE 6: GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY
Objective: How to Build a Business That Can Live Beyond You
Developing Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Licensing, Wholesale and Retail Opportunities
Managing Burnout and Maintaining Creativity as Your Business Grows
MODULE 7: BECOMING A CEO
Objective: Transitioning from Creative Worker to Creative Leader
How to Shift from Creative to CEO (Hiring, Delegation and Terminations)
Releasing Mindset Limitations (Imposter Syndrome, Limiting Beliefs
Creating a Business Beyond the Artist
MODULE 8: SYSTEMS FOR CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURS
Objective: How to Implement Systems and Technology for Growth and Sustainability
Creating Standard Operating Procedures for Sustainability
CRM’s for Creatives (Honeybook, Dubsado, etc)
Project Management (Monday, Asana, Trello)
MODULE 9: MASTERING AUTOMATION FOR CREATIVES
Objective: How to Leverage Technology to Save Time and Scale Operations
Tools for automating marketing (Email campaigns, Social Media Scheduling)
Automating Client Onboarding, Contracts, and Invoicing
Integrating Tools like Zapier to Connect Platforms Seamlessly
MODULE 10: DELEGATING AND TEAM BUILDING
Objective: How to Build and Lead a Team to Support Creative Growth
Deciding what to outsource or delegate (ex. Admin, Marketing, Production)
Hiring and Onboarding Virtual Assistants, Contractors, or Employees
Leading with Vision: Communicating goals and Expectations to Others
MODULE 11: VISION, STRATEGY AND PLANNING
Objective: How to Develop a Strategic Plan to Scale Your Creative Business
Creating a 12-month Business Roadmap
Setting and Prioritizing CEO-level Goals
Conducting Regular Business Reviews and Adjusting Strategies
SCHOOL IS IN SESSION
YSCHOOL - THE BUSINESS ACADEMY FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
Youth entrepreneurship is one of the fastest growing segments of the U.S. economy, with young individuals being 1.6 times more likely to express intentions to start a business than adults. In 2022, adults aged 18-34 reported nearly twice the rate of entrepreneurial activity compared to those in the 35-64 age group. However, there are few entrepreneurial training programs created to specifically meet the needs of young entrepreneurs who lack traditional experience in the professional sector.
YSchool, a program of Operations School, will provide young entrepreneurs (Ages 18-24) with a six month, intensive curriculum to help them understand business fundamentals, develop a signature product or service while learning how to generate income while building a sustainable business.
MODULE 1: DEVELOPING THE ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET
Objective: Understanding the Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs to Develop Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Exploring the Realities (Good, Bad, and Ugly) of becoming an Entrepreneur
Identifying Personal Strengths and Passions
How to Build Resilience and Adaptability on the Entrepreneurial Journey
MODULE
2: GENERATING AND VALIDATING BUSINESS IDEAS
Objective: Learn How to Identify Viable Business Opportunities and Validate their Potential
Brainstorming Innovative Ideas that Align with Passion
How to Conduct Market Research and Assess Demand
Defining a Clear Value Proposition
MODULE 3: BUSINESS PLANNING 101
Objective: Develop a Basic Business Plan Outlining the Roadmap for their Venture
Learn the Components of a Basic Business Plan
Identify Target Audiences and Customer Segments
How to Set Realistic Business Goals and Milestones
MODULE 4: PRODUCT AND SERVICE DEVELOPMENT
Objective: Understand how to Design, Test, and Refine a Product or Service
Developing a Product or Service that Solves a Problem
How to Create Beta Prototypes and Gather User Feedback
How to Refine Offerings Based on Insights
SCHOOL IS IN SESSION
MODULE 5: MARKETING AND BRANDING
Objective: How to Build a Cohesive Brand and Learn Foundational Marketing Techniques
How to Create a Brand Identity (ex. logos, colors, and messaging)
How to Develop a Social Media Marketing Strategy
Crafting a compelling Pitch to Attract and Retain Customers
MODULE 6: INTRO TO BUSINESS FINANCES
Objective: Building Foundational Financial Literacy for Managing a Business
Understanding Costs, Pricing, and Profit
How to Create a Simple Budget and Track Cash Flow
Exploring Tools for Managing Income and Expenses
MODULE 7: OPERATIONS AND SYSTEMS
Objective: How to Setup Efficient Systems to Manage Daily Business Activities
Learn How to Streamline Workflows and Processes
Explore Tools for Scheduling and Project Management
Understanding Inventory Management and Service Delivery
MODULE 8: CEO LEADERSHIP
Objective: How to Develop Leadership and Decision-Making Skills to Lead Effectively
Learn Time Management and Prioritization Strategies
How to Build Confidence in Public Speaking
Learning to Lead Others with Confidence and Clarity
MODULE 9: SELLING CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Objective: Mastering Sales Techniques and Create Exceptional Customer Experiences
Learn Strategies for Pitching and Closing Deals
Designing a Customer Journey for a Consistent Positive Experiences
How to Handle Customer Feedback and Resolve Conflicts
MODULE 10: FUNDING AND FINANCING YOUR STARTUP
Objective: Explore Funding Options and Learn How to Grow Your Business
Identify Funding Sources and Strategies to Fund Your Startup
How to Set Financial Goals for Short-term and Long-term Growth
Understanding the Importance of Reinvestment of Capital
SCHOOL IS IN SESSION
MODULE 11: SCALING YOUR STARTUP
Objective: How to Develop Strategies for Growth While Maintaining Quality
How to Plan for Business Expansion with New Offerings
How to Build Partnerships and Collaborations for Sustainability
How to Prepare for Scaling Operations
MODULE 12: BUSINESS SHOWCASE & GRADUATION
Objective: Students will Showcase their Products and Services to Family, Friends and Partners Participants will showcase their businesses, products and services to real potential customers and complete the program with an official graduation.
CURRICULUMAREAS
BUSINESS PLANNING
Using tools such as LivePlan, we'll help learners develop business plans
STRATEGY OPERATIONS
We'll work with learners to develop a sustainable business strategy
We'll help learners build internal operations for their startups
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT LEGAL SERVICES BRANDING
We'll work with learners to develop internal financial management systems
We'll work with students on formation, contracts, IP and more
We'll work with learners to develop logos, brand identity and online presence
SALES
We help our clients develop sales and pricing strategies to achieve sustainablity
HR + STAFFING PROJECT MANAGEMENT
We help our clients develop the infrastructure to recruit and retain employees
Our PM team will help ensure each project is delivered on time and under budget
PROGRAM FORMAT
CSchool and YSchool participants will each receive in person, direct instruction for six months where 12 modules will be delivered via subject matter experts.
PROGRAM COMPONENTS
2 Hour Facilitated Workshops: Each session is facilitated in person by experienced business owners with expertise in their field.
Dinner Provided: Dinner with a diverse menu, sourced from local, small businesses is provided during each session.
OSchool Digital Community: All students gain access to a private community for their cohort along with access to all the OSchool alumni through our Mighty Networks community.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Program participants will receive access to the following during their participation in the program:
Diagnostic Report: This report assesses their current state of operations, highlights their areas of opportunity, then directs their areas of technical assistance needs
1:1 Coaching Support : Each student gets access to a coach to help them further reach their goals during the program
Technical Assistance: Students are partnered with TA experts in the areas of finance, operations, legal, branding and more to help accelerate their learning.
Asset Library: Students in select programs are provided with picture and video assets to help build their websites, develop their social media brands and attract customers.
ACCESS TO FUNDING
Students who have successfully completed our programs are matched with funders, lenders and capital programs to assist those who are eligible for capital. Operations School has partnered with organizations such as Michigan Women Forward, Black Leaders Detroit, and CIBC Bank to provide nontraditional funding to our students.
CASESTUDY
develop the Empower Program, which provided targeted education and technical assistance to 12 small businesses in Lansing. This initiative aimed to empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, strategies, and knowledge necessary to enhance operational efficiency, drive growth, and achieve long-term sustainability.
GOALS OF THE EMPOWER PROGRAM
Strengthen the operational foundations of participating businesses Equip business owners with systems-based approaches to improve efficiency
Provide personalized technical assistance to address specific challenges
Foster a community of practice among Lansing’s entrepreneurs for ongoing collaboration and support
PROGRAM DELIVERY
The program unfolded in three phases:
Assessment & Customization: Each business underwent a thorough assessment to identify operational strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities.
Education Modules: Tailored workshops focused on critical operational areas, including process optimization, financial management, team development, and leveraging technology for efficiency.
Technical Assistance: Businesses received one-on-one coaching and hands-on support to implement customized strategies.
IMPACT AND OUTCOMES
Operational Improvements: All 12 businesses reported enhanced efficiency and clarity in their operations.
Financial Growth: 85% of participants noted measurable improvements in cash flow management and profitability within six months of completing the program.
Confidence Boost: Business owners expressed increased confidence in managing and scaling their enterprises.
Community Building: A peer network emerged, allowing businesses to share resources, collaborate on projects, and continue their learning journeys together.
HELPING OUR STUDENTS GET LEGIT
During select OSchool programs, students are provided with photography and videography branding assets to help take their brands to the next level. These assets can be incorporated into their websites, social media and help them attract and retain customers.
GOOD FELLAS BAGEL DELI
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
"The Empower Program through Operations School gave us the tools we needed to finally streamline our processes. Our business has grown by 20% since participating."
"This program didn’t just teach us operational skills; it helped us see our business differently. We’re more focused and efficient than ever."
Erica Lynn Merica Media Group
Nikki Thompson Frazier Sweet Encounter
STATEMENT OF WORK
The purpose of this Statement of Work (SOW) is to outline the scope of services and deliverables required for facilitation of programming for the Gilbert Family Foundation for two distinct tracks, creative and youth entrepreneurship. Racheal Allen, "Facilitator" will be responsible for overseeing the successful implementation of designated modules of the program, ensuring effective communication, coordination, collaboration among stakeholders. OPSIDIA will conduct 1:1 coaching, technical assistance and support to each cohort participant.
Objectives:
The objectives of the program facilitation are as follows:
Provide participants with operations capacity building curriculum via a digital course vault
Foster an environment of inquiry and engagement that encourages participation
Serve as a mentor and resource for participants during the program
Facilitate meetings, workshops, and training sessions as required
Provide regular reports and updates to stakeholders on program status and achievements
Provide in person discussion and instruction
Provide office hours and opportunity for 1:1 monthly coaching
Scope of Work:
Facilitator will perform the following tasks:
Program Planning:
Collaborate with GFF leadership to define program goals, objectives, and timelines. Develop a detailed program plan, including activities, milestones, and resources required. Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and develop a monitoring and evaluation framework.
Stakeholder Management:
Establish effective communication channels and ensure regular updates are provided to stakeholders.
Address stakeholder concerns, issues, and conflicts in a timely and professional manner.
Program Implementation:
Oversee the execution of program activities according to the defined plan. Monitor progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
Facilitate regular team meetings to review progress, address challenges, and provide guidance.
STATEMENT OF WORK
Communication and Reporting:
Develop and maintain effective communication channels among stakeholders
Prepare regular reports on program status, accomplishments, and challenges
Prepare presentations and facilitate workshops and training sessions as required
Evaluation and Improvement:
Conduct program evaluations to assess effectiveness and impact
Collect feedback from stakeholders and incorporate improvements into program implementation
Identify lessons learned and best practices to inform future program initiatives
Deliverables:
The following deliverables are expected from Facilitator:
Program plan, including goals, objectives, activities, milestones, and timelines
Regular status reports on program progress, accomplishments, and challenges
Documentation of meetings, workshops, and training sessions, including minutes and action items
Evaluation reports assessing program effectiveness, impact, and lessons learned
GFF branded content gallery with video modules
1:1 coaching support for all participants, based on expressed needs
Reporting will include progress on/after technical assistance
Timeline and Schedule:
The program facilitation services will commence on or around Spring 2025 and continue until December 2025. The specific schedule and timeline for deliverables will be mutually agreed upon by the program facilitator and the client.
Payment Terms:
Pricing for program licensing fee, facilitation and technical assistance support is $400,000.00 per year. A flat fee invoice of $33,000.00 per month will be forwarded to Gilbert Family Foundation via Bill.com. Invoices will be submitted on the first of each month. OPSIDIA has the right to withhold delivery of deliverables pending receipt of outstanding invoices. Should you terminate the engagement prior to its completion, we will only bill you for the professional fees and expenses incurred to that date.
A retainer payment of $33,000.00 will be due at the signing of contract, or 30 days prior to the start of programming. A report outlining the service hours and work performed each month will be included with the invoice. All future invoices will be due upon receipt.
STATEMENT OF WORK
Schedule:
Facilitator will work with leadership to finalize program dates to support in-person workshop facilita with classes to be hosted at a location of GFF’s choosing. It is understood that each workshop typica consists of (2) hour sessions including dedicated time for Q&A. It is also understood that Facilitator i expected to deliver approximately (2) workshops per month.
Anticipated Program Start Date:
Spring 2025
Cohort Size
Each cohort can accommodate up to 50 participants.
Confidentiality and Intellectual Property:
The Facilitator shall treat all confidential information obtained during the engagement as strictly confidential. Any intellectual property developed or provided by the program facilitator during the project shall remain the property of the program facilitator unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.
Termination:
Either party may terminate this agreement with prior written notice if either party fails to fulfill its obligations outlined in this SOW. In such cases, termination provisions as agreed upon in the separat agreement or contract shall apply.
EVALUATIONMETRICS
Operations School and OPSIDIA will communicate results of the program through profiles of each participating small business and include visuals, photography and videography to support the journey of each learner. Case studies will be created to highlight participants who are successfully navigating the program.
How many hours of TA support were deployed?
Process Indicators
(Measure the program’s activities and outputs)
Did TA reach intended number of learners?
How did learners rate the quality of the services provided?
How responsive was TA to identified needs?
Outcome Indicators
(Measure whether the program is achieving the expected effects/changes in the short, intermediate, and long term)
Quantitative Metrics
Were the participants able to provide services after receiving TA?
Were business operations measurably improved through the provision of TA?
Did the TA build capacity to continue similar efforts in the future?
Did the TA build long term relationships?
Surveys
Baseline assessments
Observation
Analysis of existing business operations
Qualitative Metrics
Interviews
Focus groups
Observation
PROPOSEDPRICING
Operations School and OPSIDIA proposes providing the above services according the following fee schedule:
Program Management Fee:
Provides client with dedicated Program Manager to oversee the progress of participants, monitor goal completion and program compliance.
Digital Content Vault:
Access to 12 pre-recorded, branded, one hour direct instruction modules
Monthly Facilitation:
Attendees will participate in bi-weekly 2 hour in person sessions featuring an array of program topics focused on systems, automation and delegation strategies.
1:1 Coaching
Monthly, 1:1 touch points with Coaching Staff for up to 50 students per cohort
$33,000.00 Per Month
