WORKSHOP ON FINANCIAL MODELLING & FORECASTING

 2nd -5th February, 2026                                                                                                           12th-15th May, 2026

 3rd-6th August, 2026                                                                                                                3rd-6th November, 2026

Introduction

Financial modeling is the task of building an abstract representation (a model) of a real world financial situation. This is a mathematical model designed to represent (a simplified version of) the performance of a financial asset or portfolio of a business, project, or any other investment. Financial modeling is a general term that means different things to different users; the reference usually relates either to accounting and corporate finance applications, or to quantitative finance applications. Typically, financial modeling is understood to mean an exercise in either asset pricing or corporate finance, of a quantitative nature. In other words, financial modelling is about translating a set of hypotheses about the behavior of markets or agents into numerical predictions; for example, a firm’s decisions about investments (the firm will invest 20% of assets), or investment returns (returns on “stock A” will, on average, be 10% higher than the market’s returns).

Financial Modelling covers areas such as Discounted Cash Flow DCF, Time value of money, revenue projection, cash-flow and financial projection. It also encompasses capital budgeting-investment appraisal, using the modern techniques like NPV and IRR. Measuring weighted average cost of capital WACC. It also involves valuation of equity-stock and bond among others. It is the integration of income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement.

This course provides participants with practical knowledge and hands-on skills to build robust financial models, perform forecasting, analyze business performance, and support strategic planning. Participants learn how to use Excel and modeling best practices to simulate real-world financial scenarios.

Course Objectives

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

1.   Understand the principles of financial modeling and forecasting.

2.   Build structured, error-free financial models.

3.   Use Excel functions and tools for dynamic modeling.

4.   Create financial statements from scratch (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow).

5.   Perform scenario and sensitivity analysis.

6.   Conduct forecasting using statistical and financial techniques.

7.   Interpret model results for effective decision-making.

8.   Present financial insights visually and professionally.

 Course Outline 

Module 1: Introduction to Financial Modelling

·       Purpose and uses of financial models

·       Types of financial models

·       Best practices and modeling standards

·       Model design and layout considerations

Module 2: Excel Skills for Modelling (Hands-On)

·       Essential formulas and functions

·       Logical and lookup functions

·       Data validation and conditional formatting

·       Named ranges, tables, and dynamic arrays

·       Keyboard shortcuts for efficiency

Module 3: Building a Financial Model Structure

·       Setting assumptions and drivers

·       Creating inputs, calculations, and outputs

·       Linking sheets and maintaining model integrity

·       Avoiding common modeling errors

Module 4: Financial Statement Modeling

·       Building a revenue model

·       Cost and expense modeling

·       Building a full income statement

·       Balance sheet projections

·       Cash flow statement (direct and indirect methods)

·       Integrating the three statements

Module 5: Forecasting Techniques

·       Trend and growth rate analysis

·       Ratio-based forecasting

·       Regression and statistical forecasting

·       Rolling forecasts

·       Short-term vs long-term forecasting

Module 6: Scenario and Sensitivity Analysis

·       What-if analysis

·       Goal Seek, Solver, and Data Tables

·       Sensitivity testing of key assumptions

·       Stress testing and risk analysis

Module 7: Valuation and Investment Modelling

·       Discounted Cash Flow (DCF)

·       NPV, IRR, Payback Period

·       Capital budgeting

·       Project appraisal modeling

Module 8: Dashboard and Presentation Skills

·       Visualizing results with charts

·       Designing dashboards for decision-makers

·       Creating professional model outputs

·       Reporting and presentation techniques

Module 9: Model Auditing and Error Checking

·       Debugging tools in Excel

·       Formula tracing

·       Consistency checks

·       Documentation and version control

Module 10: Practical Modelling Workshop

·       End-to-end financial model build

·       Industry-based case studies (manufacturing, services, SMEs, startups)

·       Group work and facilitator feedback

·       Final model presentation

Duration: Four (4) days                                                                                           Fee: N300,000

For Who?

Designed for finance officers, accountants, business analysts, investment bankers and professionals, managers, and entrepreneurs seeking to improve decision-making using analytical financial tools.