Build Your Financial Confidence in the New Year
Tools, Tips & Resources for Emerging Business Owners
Financial literacy isn’t something most of us were taught in school — yet it’s one of the most important skills for anyone starting or growing a business. To help you begin 2026 with clarity and confidence, we’ve put together a set of easy, practical tools you can use right now.
Top Financial Literacy Resources
Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE)
Free and low-cost workshops on budgeting, QuickBooks, cash flow, and business planning. One-on-one counseling available through the Women’s Business Center.
SBA Learning Center
Online courses on budgeting, pricing, taxes, and small business financial basics.
FDIC “Money Smart”
Simple, beginner-friendly modules to build everyday money confidence.
SCORE Business Mentors
Free mentoring + webinars on cash flow, pricing, forecasting, and bookkeeping.
Maryland SBDC
Local workshops and counseling for budgeting, forecasting, and planning.
Book Recommendations
- Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
- Simple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits! by Greg Crabtree
Tools & Apps
- QuickBooks (paid)
- Wave Accounting (free)
Financial Literacy Starter Checklist
✓ Separate your business and personal finances
Open a dedicated business bank account to keep your money clean and organized.
✓ Track every expense
Use QuickBooks, Wave, or Excel to record income and spending.
✓ Understand your cash flow
Know what’s coming in and going out — and when.
✓ Create a simple monthly budget
List expected expenses, revenue goals, and savings targets.
✓ Set aside money for taxes
A little at a time prevents last-minute stress.
✓ Review your pricing
Make sure your rates cover costs, labor, and profit.
✓ Schedule time to learn
Take one financial workshop or online module each month.
✓ Ask for help
MCE, SCORE, and SBDC are here to support you every step of the way.
Take Your Next Step with Confidence
Improving your money skills is one of the smartest ways to strengthen your business — and you don’t have to do it alone. MCE offers classes, coaching, and tools to help you understand your numbers and grow with confidence.
Join our upcoming financial workshops or schedule a one-on-one session with an MCE counselor.
Start the new year empowered, informed, and ready to build the future you envision.