Forecasting with Confidence

Predicting the future may seem impossible, but with the right tools and mindset, accuracy is achievable. This workshop introduces forecasting—the structured practice of making well-reasoned, probabilistic predictions drawing on behavioral economics, cognitive psychology, and statistics to explore how skilled forecasters think (mindset), structure a forecast (process), and choose their tools (methods). Participants will learn to break down complex questions, assign meaningful probabilities, track predictions, and reduce the cognitive biases that derail clear thinking—a practical framework for decisions in business, policy, research, or everyday life.

About the presenter: Warner Lin is a Certified Public Accountant with a background that spans financial audit, corporate finance, and entrepreneurship. He began his career in an International Accounting Firm, working with global teams and Fortune 500 clients through times of significant change. Now, he is a fractional CFO who delivers enterprise-level financial leadership grounded in practical small-business operations. Functioning as an extension of business owners, he provides forward-looking analysis, cash flow forecasting, profitability improvement, and strategic decision support.

Starting or growing a business? We can help. champaign.org/launch