AIA Northern Virginia is pleased to announce the inaugural launch of “So, You Want to Start Your Own Firm?” supported by a grant from the AIA Trust and its sponsors, Victor and CNA. This day-long program is geared towards anyone on an architecturally-entrepreneurial journey in Northern Virginia and the surrounding areas, whether in-school, newly graduated, established and currently working as an architect, or already a firm founder looking for a refresh. It is also designed to support attendees over the duration of their career, and enable them to create their desired practice, respond to life changes, or adapt to economic conditions as needed.

The course is divided into three sessions and a networking lunch, allowing participants to register for the entire day or an individual session:

• Morning Session 1: Building the Foundation
• Networking Lunch: Potential Partners & Community
• Afternoon Session 2: Constructing Your Business and Brand Identity
• Afternoon Session 3: How to Hit the Ground Running                                                                          

The goal of the program is to move past the fundamentals of practice management into best practices, tactics, and the necessary logistics for getting a firm off the ground. It is intended to provide prospective founders with the initial tools, contacts, and frameworks needed to plan out their practice, whether on one’s own or with partners, and prepare for the road ahead.

Attendees will:

• Understand the logistics of setting up a business and how to prepare, as well as different operational approaches and what the first years can look like.
• Hear lessons learned from recent founders about their start-up processes and current operation, as well as retrospectives from leaders of established firms.
• Obtain guidance and best practices from AEC industry service providers, including lawyers, insurers, small-business banking, accountants, design technology, and others.
• Explore avenues and methods for community, relationship, brand, and market building.

This year will be the pilot, and if well-received, AIA Northern Virginia plans to offer it on a regular basis. We will iterate the program according to feedback the Chapter receives in order to continue providing members with the specific resources they need to successfully and responsibly practice in the DMV region.  

Save The Date: Tuesday, Oct. 28

Location: Alexandria, Va.

More information about the schedule, location, and featured speakers is forthcoming.

Sign-up for updates here.

If you have any additional questions, please contact the Chapter at: [email protected]