The Gold Standard in Coaching | ICF - Business Development Series
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ICF Business Development Series

Launch. Nurture. Grow. The ICF Business Development Series (BDS) is your catalyst for business transformation. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your established business to the next level, BDS provides the tools, strategies, and expert guidance you need to succeed.

Why Choose BDS?

Led by renowned brand expert William Arruda, this online series is tailored specifically for coaches. It focuses on the unique needs of the coaching profession and offers practical, actionable insights to help you grow your business.

2 Paths to Success: Core and Advanced

  • Core: Perfect for newer coaches, Core focuses on the essentials of business development, including building your brand and attracting clients. Learn how to market your services and build a solid foundation for your business through the Core course. Plus, get ready to explore ways to use AI throughout the branding process.
  • Advanced: Designed for seasoned coaches, Advanced dives into elevated strategies like creating new offerings, optimizing your business model, and leveraging cutting-edge tools like generative AI.

Core: For Newer Coaches

Are you a newer coach ready to take the first steps in building your business? A coaching education student wondering how to navigate the business side of things? Or a coach wanting to solidify your brand and grow your client base?

BDS Core is designed for you! Gain the essential tools to confidently market yourself and build a successful coaching business.

With Core, you will learn how to:

  • Build your brand by defining your coaching niche, articulating your unique value proposition, and crafting a strategic marketing plan.
  • Attract your ideal clients through compelling messaging that tells your story.
  • Implement strategies to grow your business.
  • And much more!

Plus, you can gain Continuing Coach Education (CCE) credit! BDS Core offers 9 CCE units in Resource Development.

Learn at Your Own Pace with the Flexible Self-Study Format

The Core Self-Study course is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. With the freedom to learn when and where it’s most convenient for you, you can fully embrace the flexibility you need while gaining powerful tools and insights to grow your coaching business. Achieve your goals on your terms!

Unlock Additional Perks

The Core Self-Study course is your key for unlocking additional business development resources to grow your business success. These include opportunities to:

Get Your Questions Answered: Participate in interactive “Ask Me Anything” sessions with William Arruda. Keep an eye on your email inbox throughout the year for invitations to these exclusive sessions.

Engage with Peers: Build meaningful connections with fellow BDS peers in our vibrant BDS community on ICF Engage. This is your space to exchange ideas, ask questions, and gain the support you need to achieve your goals. Tap into the power of shared knowledge, encouragement, and accountability to elevate your business to new heights!

Pricing and Registration for BDS Core 2025 Self-Study Course

The 2025 Core Self-Study course is $400 USD for ICF members and $475 USD for non-members.

Advanced

Advanced will help you scale your established practice and pivot into new areas of specialty for heightened success as a more experienced coach. Learn the intricacies of defining and refining your intellectual property and creating a growth strategy using the innovative four-box model. Identify new products, delivery models, and audiences, all while exploring growth activities that amplify your thought leadership. Plus, learn about generative AI and how it can revolutionize your marketing, broaden your offerings, boost efficiency, and future-proof your practice.

You will learn how to:

  • Design New Coaching Products.
  • Optimize Your Business Model.
  • Stand Out with Video Communications.
  • And much more!

FAQs

  • About BDS 25 Core

    How is BDS 25 Core different from other business development courses?

    BDS 25 is designed specifically for coaches. It is focused on the topics and needs of coach practitioners, making all the content accessible and relevant. BDS 25 is built on a proven three-step process that was developed by personal branding pioneer William Arruda and has been used by thousands of coaches around the world.

    I attended a previous BDS, does it make sense for me to register for this one?

    If you still need support in defining your business and shaping your practice, Core will provide you with a great refresher. Sometimes it is good to revisit the content with fresh eyes.

    If your business is not exactly where you want it to be and you want to revisit your strategy, niche, communications plans, you will benefit from participating.

    I am brand new to coaching, should I participate?

    BDS 25 Core is a great resource for coaches who are either just starting out or are early in their coaching practice.

    How often does ICF offer this course?

    The Business Development Series (BDS) is periodically offered as a live course. Check our website for updates.  The self-study version is available on the ICF Learning Portal at any time.

  • BDS 25 Core Content

    What learning content and materials will I have access to?

    In the self-study format, you will have access to curated sessions by William Arruda and a comprehensive course workbook where you can record your learning and create your personalized action plan. Also included will be additional resources, videos, templates, and workbooks to help you continue to expand your knowledge and strengthen your business plans.

  • Registration for BDS 25 Core

    What is the cost of BDS 25 Core?

    The BDS 25 Core Self-Study course is $400 USD for ICF members and $475 USD for non-members.

    When does registration end for BDS 25 Core?

    Registration for the self-study format is ongoing.

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