Participants will explore core elements of financial statements, model logic, assumptions, and best practices that underpin effective financial modeling in business environments.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the purpose and importance of financial modeling
• Identify the key components of a financial model
• Interpret basic financial statements used in models
• Recognize common modeling structures and logic flows
• Evaluate assumptions and their impact on outputs
• Understand best practices and common pitfalls in modeling

• Finance and accounting beginners
• Non-financial professionals (managers, analysts, consultants)
• Entrepreneurs and startup founders
• Anyone interested in understanding financial decision-making

Day 1: Introduction to Financial Modeling

• What is financial modeling?
• Why financial modeling is important in business
• Types of financial models (forecasting, valuation, budgeting)
• Overview of model users (analysts, managers, investors)
• Key concepts: assumptions, inputs, outputs

Day 2: Understanding Financial Statements

• Overview of the three core statements:
• Income Statement
• Balance Sheet
• Cash Flow Statement
• How the statements are connected
• Key financial terms and definitions
• Role of financial statements in modeling

Day 3: Structure of a Financial Model

• Typical model layout (inputs, calculations, outputs)
• Model flow and logic
• Time horizons and forecasting periods
• Assumptions vs. drivers
• Importance of clarity and organization

Day 4: Model Logic & Key Components

• Revenue modeling concepts
• Cost and expense structures
• Profitability measures (gross profit, EBITDA, net income)
• Introduction to forecasting logic
• Sensitivity to assumptions (conceptual understanding)

Day 5: Best Practices & Model Evaluation

• Principles of good financial modeling
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them
• Model transparency and documentation
• Interpreting results for decision-making
• Course summary and key takeaways

CDGA attendance certificate will be issued to all attendees completing minimum of 80% of the total course duration.