Start anew – with experience
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You've worked as an employee for many years – and you feel: there's more to life? You no longer want to be controlled by others, but finally realize your own ideas? Then now is the right time to give your experience a new direction.
I accompany people who have both feet firmly on the ground and who consciously want to embark on the path to independence – with clarity, structure and an eye for reality.
Coaching sessions can take place in our offices in Offenburg, online, or in a hybrid format – whichever suits you best. Surprisingly often, we even achieve better results online because we can work together live on your documents, texts, and business plans.
Important: We support you with the formal steps and help you to turn your vision into a viable concept.
The “employee mindset” – and why it often gets in the way
Many people who come to startup coaching carry deeply rooted beliefs – shaped by years of employment. This often involved meeting targets, avoiding mistakes, and behaving "correctly." However, those who want to start a business need exactly the opposite: courage, creativity, an entrepreneurial mindset, and the willingness to take responsibility for themselves.
Are you holding yourself back?
We often get in our own way when starting out as a self-employed person. Find out with my test if old patterns are holding you back.
For the self-sabotage testA common stumbling block is the desire for security. But security in an employment relationship is often only apparent – because even there, termination is possible at any time. In self-employment, you have the opportunity to actively shape your own future and build a stable foundation – step by step.
Another obstacle is the need for perfection. Many founders stall because they believe they have to have "everything perfectly prepared" first. But successful entrepreneurs often start with a clear idea – and then learn along the way.
In coaching, we take a close look at these internal hurdles. Because a good business idea alone isn't enough – it also needs to be implemented by someone who's willing to step out of their comfort zone and try something new.
Why now is the right moment
Perhaps you're currently going through a career transition, feeling dissatisfied, or have had a business idea for a long time that's finally ready to be realized. Many of my clients start their own businesses in their forties – and truly thrive.
From laboratory technician to storyteller
"What would you do if anything were possible?" – This question in a coaching session changed everything. Today I live my calling as a storyteller.
Katrin Bamberg worked as a chemical engineering assistant for over 30 years. Before her department was restructured, she received an outplacement offer and came to me for coaching. It quickly became clear that she was out of steam—she was no longer passionate about her previous job. Her salary expectations were in line with her experience, but the market was looking for young professionals.
So I asked her: "What would you do if anything were possible?" – Her answer: "I would tell fairy tales." Today she is known throughout the Ortenau region as a fairy tale teller – and lives exactly what truly suits her.
Here is the link to their website: https://spinnradmaerchen.de/
A look into practice – short video
Business plan: Your entrepreneurial compass
A business plan isn't a bureaucratic requirement, but your roadmap to success. We develop a concept that not only convinces banks, but also gives you peace of mind.
Your business plan includes, for example:
- Description of your idea and qualifications
- Target group analysis & marketing strategy
- Financial planning and investment needs
- Legal form, location, organization
Together we will answer your questions
- Load capacity: Is my business idea truly viable in the market?
- Prices: How do I calculate my fee after 25 years of experience?
- Start mode: Start part-time or go full-time straight away?
- Acquisition: How do I win my first customers?
- Marketing: What does modern online marketing look like?
- Organisation: How do you do efficient accounting these days?
- Structure: How do I organize my many ideas?
Our programs for successful self-employment and business start-up
Orientation & Clarity
Result: A well-informed decision about your path and a clear roadmap.
- Idea audit: Reality check of your vision
- Funding check (Employment Agency / Job Center)
- Mindset Check: From Employee to Entrepreneur
- Structure plan for your next steps
Business plan & viability
Result: Your completed concept including a certificate of viability.
- Business plan & financial plan creation
- Load-bearing capacity certificate (SGB III) incl.
- Support with your funding applications
- Positioning for banks & government agencies
Market Entry & Growth
Result: Market success and visibility through BAFA-funded mentoring.
- Marketing & Customer Acquisition
- Sales training & pricing strategy
- Listed BAFA consultants
- Grant from Up to 50% possible
*The decision regarding funding rests solely with BAFA. We will support you throughout the application process. The "Funding for Business Consulting for SMEs" program is supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action and the European Social Fund Plus.
“I’m passionate about my subject – and I realize: This is my path.”
This exact sentence comes up at some point in coaching – and then the penny drops. Whether you work with people, sell a product, or want to realize a passion project: Your experience counts. Your courage counts. And: Your time counts.
Take the first step now
You don't need to know everything. You just need to know that you're ready to seriously engage with the topic of starting a business.
Arrange a free initial consultation now – by phone, online or in Offenburg.
I'm looking forward to meeting you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does business start-up advice cost?
The costs depend on the scope of the consultation. A free initial consultation is always possible. Afterwards, you will receive a personalized offer – often subsidized by the Federal Employment Agency or the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA).
Is coaching also possible online?
Yes, absolutely. Many of my clients prefer the online format because we can work together efficiently and directly on documents, texts, and strategies.
You don't have a concrete idea yet – is coaching still worthwhile?
Yes. Often, the right idea only becomes clear during the coaching process. Especially if you sense that "something else" is coming up, coaching can help you gain inner clarity.
How does the load capacity certificate work?
As part of the coaching process, we will jointly review your business idea and, if needed, prepare a comprehensive viability assessment – for example, for start-up grants, start-up funding, or financing. We are recognized as an expert body for this purpose in accordance with Section 93 of the German Social Code, Book III (SGB III).
What distinguishes your consulting services from a startup seminar?
With me, you and your individual situation are the focus. It's not about generic PowerPoint presentations, but about personal, actionable strategies – with heart, mind, and experience.
Fecke Coaching
Business start-up consulting | Career coaching | Personal development
📍 Offenburg & Online
✅ Recognized expert body according to § 93 SGB III
✅ Certificates of viability for start-up grants and bank meetings
Business start-up in Offenburg. Business start-up consulting in Lahr.