Strategic Steps Forward

Launch Your Business with Confidence

professional home office workspace organized desk with laptop and coffee mug

Helping Local Entrepreneurs Launch Without the Tech Overwhelm

Schedule your free 30-Minute Discovery Call

Welcome!

I’m Sue, and I help local entrepreneurs get their businesses up and running without getting stuck on the technical stuff. With over 22 years of experience in federal program management and a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership & IT Program Management, I bring Fortune 500-level systems expertise to small-business launches.

I work full-time for the federal government and offer Strategic Steps Forward services on a limited basis as a way to give back to my community. I typically work with 1-2 clients per month, helping them set up payment processing, scheduling, email systems, and all the technical pieces that can feel overwhelming when you’re starting out.

The result? You get professional business systems without the stress – and pricing based on what works for your situation.

How It Works
A Simple, Proven Process

1. Discovery Call (Free) We talk about your business vision, timeline, and what you need to launch successfully.

2. Choose Your Package Select the service level that fits your needs and budget – from essential setup to full-service launch.

3. I handle the Setup while you focus on perfecting your craft. I set up your payment systems, scheduling, digital presence, and compliance basics.

4. Launch with Confidence. In 2-4 weeks, you’re ready to take clients with all systems operational and professional.

Who I Work With: Perfect for New Entrepreneurs

I specialize in helping local small business owners, including:

  • Massage therapists, personal trainers, yoga instructors
  • Coaches and consultants
  • Tour guides and outdoor recreation services
  • Home-based businesses (baking, crafts, photography)
  • Anyone transitioning from a hobby to a professional business

Who I’m Best Suited to Help: I specialize in service-based businesses (coaches, therapists, trainers, consultants) where the main needs are booking, payments, and basic online presence.

If you’re launching an e-commerce shop, restaurant, or product-based business with complex inventory needs, I may not be the best fit, but I’m happy to point you to specialists who can help.

If you’re great at your craft but overwhelmed by the business side, we’re a perfect fit.

Pricing That Works For You

I believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to getting your business set up right. My pricing is flexible based on your situation and budget, typically ranging from $0 to $1,000 depending on the scope of work and your budget. During our free discovery call, we’ll discuss openly what you need and what makes financial sense. The packages below show typical pricing, but I’m happy to work with you to find an approach that fits your budget. I’m also happy to barter for your services!

What I Offer – Three Ways to Work Together

Pricing is flexible based on your situation – let’s talk during your discovery call. Bartering is encouraged!

Basic Systems Setup:

Perfect for solopreneurs who need the essentials. Pricing based on situation.

  • Payment processing setup
  • Scheduling system configuration
  • Professional email setup
  • Essential compliance documents
  • 1-hour consultation

Timeline: 1-2 weeks

Standard Launch Support:

Starting at $500 – Everything in Basic, plus:

  • Social media setup
  • Marketing materials coordination
  • Systems integration
  • 30 days email support

Timeline: 2-3 weeks

Comprehensive Launch Support:

Starting at $750 – Everything in Standard, plus:

  • Website setup or coordination
  • Extended support
  • Full documentation

Timeline: 3-4 weeks as needed

Why Work With Me

22+ Years Federal Program Management I’ve managed complex, multi-million dollar portfolios and navigated bureaucratic systems that would make most consultants cry. I know how to organize chaos.

Small Business Owner I owned Full Circle Cyclery for 9 years. I’ve been in your shoes – I know what it takes to run a successful small business.

Advanced Certifications Senior Level Contracting Officer Representative, FAC-P/PM Senior Level certified. I understand compliance, contracts, and getting things done right.

Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership Recent graduate with IT Program Management specialization. I bring current, evidence-based practices to your business.

Community Commitment I work full-time for the federal government and offer Strategic Steps Forward on a limited basis (typically 1-2 clients per month). This isn’t about building an empire; it’s about leveraging my expertise to help local entrepreneurs succeed. I keep my rates affordable because I believe in supporting our community.

Why do I do this? I work full-time for the federal government, but I wanted to apply my program management and technical expertise more directly to help people. I’ve watched friends struggle with the technical side of launching their businesses – they’re amazing at their craft, but payment systems and scheduling software can feel overwhelming. I can help with that. I’m also thinking ahead. I’ve got about 15 years until retirement, and I know I’ll need something meaningful to keep me engaged. I don’t want to be bored – I want to stay active and helpful. I’m building Strategic Steps Forward now, helping 10-15 local entrepreneurs each year, and creating something that will give me purpose for years to come. It’s community service now, and it’ll be my ‘retirement job’ later.

Client Success Stories: Real Results for Real Businesses

Massage Therapy by Lynda

“Sue took the overwhelm out of starting my business. In two weeks, I went from confused about payment systems to taking my first client. She handled everything – Square setup, Acuity scheduling, social media, even tax registration. I couldn’t have done this without her.”

Results:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Do I need to have everything figured out before we start? No! Part of what I do is help you think through what you actually need. We’ll have a discovery call to map out your business and create a plan.

Q2: How long does it take to get set up? Depends on the package. Basic setups can be done in 1-2 weeks, while comprehensive launches take 3-4 weeks. We’ll set clear timelines during our discovery call.

Q3: Can I add services later if I start with Basic? Absolutely! Many clients start with Basic and add services as they grow. You’re never locked in.

Q4: Do you only work with Colorado businesses? I focus on Colorado because I know the community, but I’m happy to work with companies across the country.

Q5: What if I already started some setup myself? Perfect! I can pick up where you left off, fix anything that’s not quite right, and fill in the gaps. You don’t have to start from scratch.

Q6: Will I know how to manage everything after you set it up? Yes. I don’t just set things up and disappear – I document everything and teach you how to manage your systems. You’ll be fully equipped to run your business independently.

Q7: What if something breaks after we’re done? Standard and Premium packages include post-launch support (30-60 days). After that, I offer hourly support as needed. Most clients find the systems are stable and easy to manage.

Q8: Do you help with business planning or strategy? My focus is on operational setup – getting the tech, systems, and compliance in place. For business strategy and planning, I can refer you to great local resources.

Q9: How many clients do you take on? “I work with Strategic Steps Forward clients on a part-time basis alongside my full-time government job. I typically take 1-2 new clients per month to ensure I can give everyone quality attention. If my schedule is full, I’m happy to add you to a waitlist or refer you to other resources.

Let’s Talk About Your Business!

I offer a free 30-minute discovery call to discuss your vision, answer questions, and see if we’re a good fit.

No pressure, no sales pitch. Just an honest conversation about what you need and whether I’m the right person to help. If I’m not, I’ll tell you – and point you toward someone who is.

📅 Schedule Your Free Discovery Call

Call or text: (720) 295-9368 or email me directly: strategicstepsforward@gmail.com