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The LA SBDC Network offers no-cost virtual business workshops for small businesses in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties.

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October 2023

WEBINAR Supercharge Your Sales Growth—Sales Strategies That Work!

October 18, 2023 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

What You’ll Learn: 2023 is almost over.  Are your sales, donors or members growing? Does your business struggle with converting your ideas, products and services into stronger sales results? Learn how to unlock and overcome your sales and fundraising hurdles to help your team reach new record-breaking success. Increase your potential using smarter strategies and digital tools to thrive and expand your 4th quarter growth! Attendees of This Presentation Will Learn How To:  • Set your sales goals and help your team achieve…

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WEBINAR Money Matters: How to Finance Your Business

October 18, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will provide an overview of available options for financing your business. Equity and debt options as well as crowd funding and the process for raising capital from friends and family will be discussed. Details on what you need to know to apply for a business loan, as well the required documents and paperwork needed for the application process will be provided. The various types of financial institutions and which institutions are currently loaning money and what you will…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Sales Taxes for your Business

October 19, 2023 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This webinar will provide answers to your questions about sales taxes. Do you need to charge sales tax, how much should you be charging your customers, how do you apply for a sellers permit, what is a marketplace facilitator, when and how should you pay the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration your sales tax that is owing,  how do you complete a sales tax return… and more During the webinar, the presenter will show attendees how to prepare…

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WEBINAR Writing a Winning Press Release

October 19, 2023 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Free

You’ve got a hot new product or service that you would like your prospective customers to know about. Or maybe, there has been a problem at your business that is attracting media attention. Whatever, the circumstance, knowing how to prepare a professional press release is a valuable skill for any business owner. In this webinar, we will examine what the media is looking for in a good press release. This a a hands-on workshop where participants will learn the parts of a press release and how to attract the attention of media…

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WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

October 24, 2023 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Business Plan Overview

October 24, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

Building a successful business requires vision, and the coordination of efforts in several areas.  The process of starting and running a business can be overwhelming without a good plan. A good solution to understanding all of the moving parts of your business is to write a business plan. In this webinar we will discuss: -The internal and external purposes of a business plan -A review of the types of plans: Traditional, one page, Canvas, Pitch Deck -Writing strategies and tips,…

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WEBINAR E-Smarts: Digital Marketing Automation-Leverage Your Business Growth

October 25, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will go over how you can set up an automated Digital Marketing system to grow your business by leverage your time using systems. Regardless of your business, you will learn how to take advantage of automation to beat your competitors and free up your valuable time. In this workshop you will discover: How to find and attract potential customers How to take interested leads and turn them into paying customers How to increase the lifetime value of your customers How…

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WEBINAR Human Resources: Do’s and Don’ts of Hiring

October 26, 2023 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Free

This training is designed to assist California small business owners create a realistic and compliant strategy to legally hire employees. Instructor: Sara Nicholson REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Social Media: How to Tell Your Story, Sell Your Brand

October 26, 2023 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

This workshop is to help businesses with existing social media platforms to take their business to a higher level. This workshop will answer: What is Social Media storytelling. What is the difference between building a business and selling a brand? You will learn key ways to tell a story without overselling your audience. We will discuss examples of current brands and businesses who are leveraging specific platforms to ‘sell’. You will leave the webinar with an understanding of how to communicate…

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WEBINAR Biz Basics: How to go from Handyman to Construction

October 26, 2023 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Free

Join us for this insightful presentation to learn how you can go from Handyman to starting a Construction company. Upon completion of this course, participants will discover how to obtain a contractor’s license and start a Construction business. Presented by our advisor, Michael Williams who has 30 years of experience helping people pass the CSLB exam. Topics we will cover: Business Organization Business Finances Employment Requirements Bonds, Insurance and Liens Contract Requirements and Execution Licensing Requirements Safety Public Works Instructor: Michael…

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WEBINAR Biz Basics: Lean Business Planning

October 31, 2023 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Lean business planning is not what you think. Not a big formal plan. Not just for startups. Quick and practical tool for managing through a crisis. It’s as quick and easy as a few simple bullet point lists lists and tables to set down milestones and metrics. Plus powerful tools to manage sales, spending, and cash flow. Make a quick dashboard for getting through a crisis. Join this webinar as Tim Berry, founder of bplans.com and Palo Alto Software, shares the simplicity and…

Find out more »

November 2023

WEBINAR Biz Basics: How to Start Your Business Financials in Excel

November 1, 2023 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

Overcome your fear of starting with an empty Excel spreadsheet and become proficient to create your own Profit and Loss statement for your business. This workshop will cover the basic Excel functions necessary to develop your financials and then build a basic Profit and Loss statement. We will also see how you can download your bank activity and use filters to analyze the data, a powerful tool. Basic computer knowledge is required for this class. Instructor: Andrew Strachan (SBDC Advisor) REGISTER…

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WEBINAR Wave Accounting for Startups and Service Businesses

November 2, 2023 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

Keeping track of your business income and expenses is crucial to the financial health of your company. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be complicated! This webinar will cover how to use Wave, a free online accounting software program to help keep you on track. Wave is designed for small business owners. No jargon, just an easy accounting software for small business that makes sense.  This webinar is not for companies with inventory. Instructor: Maureen Thielen REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

November 7, 2023 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

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WEBINAR Creating a Personal Media List and Contacting the Media

November 7, 2023 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Free

A customized media list is a must-have resource for successful business owners. In any given year, there are typically several opportunities to contact the media with the goal of getting positive coverage for your product or service. Compiling your own media list requires an investment in time and effort–but the results are well worth the hard work. There are also paid services, and in this workshop, participants will discover where to find them and how to determine which approach is preferred.…

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WEBINAR Content Marketing That Grows Your Business—Email, Blogs and Shares!

November 8, 2023 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

Use Content Marketing to Grow Your Results:  The internet puts users in charge by allowing them to search and find content when they need it. Content marketing is ruled by keywords, SEO and your ability to provide content that your audience values and shares. Learn how “What you say and how you say it” can attract, engage and bring people to your website or landing page and entice your target audience to share and refer their friends. Let’s identify the best…

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WEBINAR Money Matters: How to Finance Your Business

November 8, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will provide an overview of available options for financing your business. Equity and debt options as well as crowd funding and the process for raising capital from friends and family will be discussed. Details on what you need to know to apply for a business loan, as well the required documents and paperwork needed for the application process will be provided. The various types of financial institutions and which institutions are currently loaning money and what you will…

Find out more »

WEBINAR E-Smarts: 20 WordPress Tips & Tricks for Small Businesses

November 9, 2023 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Free

WordPress is by far the most popular content management system. From blogging to eCommerce, it can be a powerful tool for small business website owners to enhance their online presence. In this webinar, we will review some of the key features and benefits of WordPress, how it differs from other platforms, and how you can set yourself up for success. Attend this 2-hour Webinar to discover: How to get started on WordPress Which features set it apart from the pack Must-have…

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WEBINAR Money Matters: Angel Investment 101 for Start-Ups

November 14, 2023 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Funding and financing your business are extremely important. One of the options that comes up is angel investment. What does angel investment mean? How often does it happen? Is your business a candidate? What steps to take? What do you need? Webinar presenter Tim Berry has been on both sides of this table. He successfully raised investment for his business. And he has been an angel investor for more than a decade.   In this webinar, Tim answers key questions…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

November 14, 2023 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Navigating SBIR/STTR (Research & Technology) Grants

November 15, 2023 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Free

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs provide an opportunity for small businesses to tap into federal funding to conduct research and development on promising new innovations and technologies.  With $4 billion available annually, the programs are a source of seed capital for early stage companies. SBIR/STTR funding can also serve as a pathway to equity financing by allowing businesses to demonstrate feasibility of new technologies and move toward commercialization.  This webinar will cover…

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WEBINAR E-Smarts: Dominating Your Local Market Online

November 15, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will go over methods and strategies to leverage online marketing and social media to dominate your local market. If you’re looking for ways to attract new customers then this training will show you how to avoid common pitfalls and get ahead of your competition. In this workshop you will discover: i. The 4 areas of Digital Marketing that are essential to a successful business ii. Why the way people perceive you online makes all the difference iii. The proper way to…

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WEBINAR Social Media 101-The Basics, What, When, Where and Why

November 16, 2023 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

Discover the basics of getting ‘on’ social media. In this workshop we’ll briefly cover main social platforms – what are they and how to use them. We’ll discuss key terminology, cover how-to’s (ie.e how to post, share stories, upload a video, write captions and create hashtags.) We’ll cover best practices including how to use apps as a search engine, how to follow, share, comment and engage organically to build followers and community.   Instructor: Chérmelle Edwards (SBDC Advisor) REGISTER NOW

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Legal Corner: Being Your Own Lawyer

November 16, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Free

You are allowed to represent yourself!  Should you?  Some tips on how a business owner can represent herself in three common legal situations – Collections -Mediation – Arbitration – Small Claims.  Also covered are two key steps for reducing your business’ liability exposure, as well as preparing for the worst – being sued. Join Attorney Ben Martin who loves helping new and small businesses, survive and thrive. With over 20 years of experience working for SBDCs, Non-profit Entrepreneurship Programs, and…

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WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

November 28, 2023 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Biz Basics: Lean Business Planning

November 28, 2023 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Lean business planning is not what you think. Not a big formal plan. Not just for startups. Quick and practical tool for managing through a crisis. It’s as quick and easy as a few simple bullet point lists lists and tables to set down milestones and metrics. Plus powerful tools to manage sales, spending, and cash flow. Make a quick dashboard for getting through a crisis. Join this webinar as Tim Berry, founder of bplans.com and Palo Alto Software, shares the simplicity and…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Legal Corner: How To Set Up & Register Your Business

November 29, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This in-depth webinar addresses a multitude of important topics regarding legal entities and other important decisions you will need to make as a business owner. One of the first decisions will include how the company will be structured. Because of this, we will cover the basics of regulatory filings that permit new owners to properly set up entities in California.   Our discussion will cover legal formation for startups, including: • LLC’s, S-Corporations, C-Corporations • DBA’s • Business permits •…

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WEBINAR The Basics of Starting a Business

November 30, 2023 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Free

Learn the fundamentals of what it takes to get your business started. We will discuss what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur and the important steps that need to be taken to begin your business.   Topics of discussion will include: -What it takes to be an entrepreneur -Legal requirements and different legal types including sole proprietorship (DBA), and LLC and S-Corp, -Building your team of experts, including CPA’s, Atty, Bank, Web and marketing experts and industry mentor -Office…

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December 2023

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

December 5, 2023 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Producing, Delivering and Posting a Business Vlog

December 5, 2023 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Free

Have you been thinking of establishing a business vlog, but need some support in getting it off the ground? Do you want to find additional ways to add value and increase engagement on your social media platforms? If so, this workshop is for you. With free or low-cost resources, tools and platforms at our fingertips, writing, producing, delivering and posting a vlog on a regular basis does not have to be costly or difficult. In this interactive workshop, attendees will discover how to create a calendar…

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WEBINAR Biz Basics: Accounting: The Basics of the Language of Business

December 6, 2023 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

Accounting is the system of tracking the income, expenses, assets and liabilities of business. Owners, managers, bankers, investors – use accounting terms and concepts to describe the events that make up the “story”. This workshop will explain the basics of how to make journal entries including debits and credits, the structure of financial statements, important financial ratios, and, more importantly, how to “account” for the transactions in your business. Instructor: Andrew Strachan REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Money Matters: How to Finance Your Business

December 6, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will provide an overview of available options for financing your business. Equity and debt options as well as crowd funding and the process for raising capital from friends and family will be discussed. Details on what you need to know to apply for a business loan, as well the required documents and paperwork needed for the application process will be provided. The various types of financial institutions and which institutions are currently loaning money and what you will…

Find out more »

WEBINAR E-Smarts: Google Analytics 4 For Beginners

December 7, 2023 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Free

As Google has announced discontinuing data collection for Universal Analytics, it’s crucial to begin making the switch to for Google Analytics 4. We will walk through how to set up a new GA4 property and how to switch over from UA. We will go over each of the main features of GA4 and discuss which features are the most valuable for small businesses to tap into. Attend this 2-hour webinar to discover: What is GA4 and how it is different…

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WEBINAR Legal Corner: Free & Key – Positioning for Success!

December 7, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Free

This workshop will highlight valuable tips & opportunities that are unknown or overlooked.Free moves that businesses can use for efficiency, cutting costs, etc. Join Attorney Ben Martin who loves helping new and small businesses, survive and thrive. With over 20 years of experience working for SBDCs, Non-profit Entrepreneurship Programs, and Pro Bono service to people wanting to build their futures. Ben has a reputation for advice that gives business owners confidence and independence. Using plain language, a sense of humor and giving…

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WEBINAR Human Resources: New Hire Onboarding

December 12, 2023 @ 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Free

New Hire Onboarding teaches you the many various mandatory new hire paperwork requirements and processes to successfully bring a new employee into your business in California. Doing it correctly from the beginning minimizes your risk of unintentional violations of the many State and Federal HR mandates. Instructor: Sara Nicholson REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Money Matters: Angel Investment 101 for Start-Ups

December 12, 2023 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Funding and financing your business are extremely important. One of the options that comes up is angel investment. What does angel investment mean? How often does it happen? Is your business a candidate? What steps to take? What do you need? Webinar presenter Tim Berry has been on both sides of this table. He successfully raised investment for his business. And he has been an angel investor for more than a decade.   In this webinar, Tim answers key questions…

Find out more »

WEBINAR How to Increase Profitability

December 12, 2023 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Free

Do you know what to do to increase the profitability of your business?  In this workshop, learn the 5 ways to improve profitability.  Learn how to review your company’s financials and compare your business performance with industry competitors.  In conjunction with your advisor, you will be able to access reports customized for your business that shows where you are excelling and where improvement is needed.  You will also see how to quickly and easily create an online pitch or business…

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WEBINAR Customer Retention & Referral Tools To Your Team!

December 13, 2023 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

Customer Retention and Referrals Can Grow Your Business Faster Than Any Other Action:  Are you using the latest tools to power sales using customer retention and referrals? Join this webinar to learn the best tools to help grow your business  faster.   This Workshop Will Teach You: How to accelerate business using customer retention tools. Team building sales tools that grow your prospects and referrals. Tools that encourage your past customers to grow your business. How to connect feedback to your…

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WEBINAR Legal Corner: How To Set Up & Register Your Business

December 13, 2023 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This in-depth webinar addresses a multitude of important topics regarding legal entities and other important decisions you will need to make as a business owner. One of the first decisions will include how the company will be structured. Because of this, we will cover the basics of regulatory filings that permit new owners to properly set up entities in California.   Our discussion will cover legal formation for startups, including: • LLC’s, S-Corporations, C-Corporations • DBA’s • Business permits •…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Biz Basics: Marketing 101

December 14, 2023 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Free

Understanding the basics of marketing is vital for successful launch and growth of any business. Marketing is the discipline where  you learn how to create & maintain demand, relevance, reputation, competitive positioning and more. Marketing is integral in all facets of launching, growing and maintaining your business in the short and long term. Marketing provides unique insights and direction to develop a product/service, identify/reach your target market, create compelling content, engage/inform customers and establish brand relevance. During this class we will introduce the concepts…

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January 2024

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

January 9 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Money Matters: Angel Investment 101 for Start-Ups

January 9 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Funding and financing your business are extremely important. One of the options that comes up is angel investment. What does angel investment mean? How often does it happen? Is your business a candidate? What steps to take? What do you need? Webinar presenter Tim Berry has been on both sides of this table. He successfully raised investment for his business. And he has been an angel investor for more than a decade.   In this webinar, Tim answers key questions…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Money Matters: How to Finance Your Business

January 10 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will provide an overview of available options for financing your business. Equity and debt options as well as crowd funding and the process for raising capital from friends and family will be discussed. Details on what you need to know to apply for a business loan, as well the required documents and paperwork needed for the application process will be provided. The various types of financial institutions and which institutions are currently loaning money and what you will…

Find out more »

WEBINAR QUICKBOOKS ONLINE SERIES

January 10 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Free

1/10/2024 – SETTING UP QBO: Learn how to set up QBO by customizing settings, setting up customers, vendors, chart of accounts, product and service items. Decide which version of QBO works for you. Learn how to set up bank feeds, bank rules and get bank synchronization tips. 1/17/2024 – QBO SALES & EXPENSES: Learn how to customize QBO for your sales and expenses, create sales receipts and invoices, receive customer payments and make payment links.  Learn how to correctly enter expenses and…

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WEBINAR How To Begin a Successful Social Media Brand in 2024

January 11 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

n this webinar we’ll discuss what Social Media is and is not. We’ll define the difference between social media for personal use and business use. We’ll discuss today’s main platforms including best use cases based upon popular industries. You’ll learn how to select the right social platform(s) for your business including what to post (content); how often to post (frequency), and how to turn content into sales (revenue strategies). Instructor: Chérmelle Edwards (SBDC Advisor) REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Business Plan Overview

January 11 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

Building a successful business requires vision, and the coordination of efforts in several areas.  The process of starting and running a business can be overwhelming without a good plan. A good solution to understanding all of the moving parts of your business is to write a business plan. In this webinar we will discuss: -The internal and external purposes of a business plan -A review of the types of plans: Traditional, one page, Canvas, Pitch Deck -Writing strategies and tips,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Human Resources: Preparing for a New Year – How to do an HR Audit

January 12 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Free

This training is designed to assist California small business owners audit their in-house HR files, HR processes, and prepare for a new year, especially with all of the new HR laws that are coming into reality on 1/1/2024.   Instructor: Sara Nicholson  REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR E-Smarts: Get More Free Traffic to Your Website with These Simple SEO Techniques

January 16 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Free

Is your website getting all of the traffic it should be? Is it pulling in leads and sales? If not, your target audience may not be able to find you. Google search drives the majority of traffic on the internet. Learn the basics of search engine optimization (SEO) and start growing your search presence organically, using tried and true methods that are 100% free!   You will Learn: The difference between on-site and off-site SEO How to optimize your pages…

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WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

January 16 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Biz Basics: How to Estimate Startup Costs & Cash Flow

January 17 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

How much will it cost to start your business? What are the different categories of costs I need to be concerned about? Financial preparation is key so that you can plan ahead in starting your new venture. Topics include: Steps needed to calculate start-up expenses Calculating the first 90 days projected monthly costs Ongoing expenses Conducting a margin analysis and a break-even analysis Initial cash flow projection will be reviewed and presented in this hands-on session.   Instructor: Andrew Strachan…

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WEBINAR Legal Corner: Business Survival 2024

January 18 @ 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Free

A great Jump Start for 2024, covers various topics important to the survival of all small businesses:  Legal Structure and Personal Asset Protection, Type of Insurance, Cash Flow Issues, Permits and Licensing, Management styles, an owner’s life choices, the 3 roles you play in your business, and Business planning. Join Attorney Ben Martin who loves helping new and small businesses, survive and thrive. With over 20 years of experience working for SBDCs, Non-profit Entrepreneurship Programs, and Pro Bono service to people…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

January 23 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Biz Basics: Lean Business Planning

January 23 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Lean business planning is not what you think. Not a big formal plan. Not just for startups. Quick and practical tool for managing through a crisis. It’s as quick and easy as a few simple bullet point lists and tables to set down milestones and metrics. Plus powerful tools to manage sales, spending, and cash flow. Make a quick dashboard for getting through a crisis. Join this webinar as Tim Berry, founder of bplans.com and Palo Alto Software, shares the simplicity and ease…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Win the Inbox Battle–Email Marketing 2024 Action Tools!

January 24 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

Are your Email Marketing efforts paying off? Are your contacts engaging & converting? Learn proven strategies to help your messages rise above a noisy inbox. Email open rates have changed. 2024 email marketers can use the latest action tools to motivate opens & engagement. Liz reveals her top 2024 tips to better results. Save time & get better results using tools like: AI, CRM, integrated apps, landing pages, SMS & so much more!   This Workshop Will Teach You how to: Learn why your…

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WEBINAR Legal Corner: Insurance Explained for Small Businesses

January 24 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

What you need to know about Insurance for your small business. Every business has certain risks related to its operation. To protect your business and personal assets, insurance coverage is critical. You will learn about the myriad types of insurance, the rationale for procuring the various insurance types and come away with an understanding of how various types apply to your business. Specific Learning Objectives:  Why Small Businesses Need Insurance? Exactly What Kinds of Coverage Are Available? What insurance is needed for…

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WEBINAR Sales Taxes for your Business

January 25 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This webinar will provide answers to your questions about sales taxes. Do you need to charge sales tax, how much should you be charging your customers, how do you apply for a sellers permit, what is a marketplace facilitator, when and how should you pay the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration your sales tax that is owing,  how do you complete a sales tax return… and more During the webinar, the presenter will show attendees how to prepare…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Biz Basics: How to go from Handyman to Construction

January 25 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Free

Join us for this insightful presentation to learn how you can go from Handyman to starting a Construction company. Upon completion of this course, participants will discover how to obtain a contractor’s license and start a Construction business. Presented by our advisor, Michael Williams who has 30 years of experience helping people pass the CSLB exam. Topics we will cover: Business Organization Business Finances Employment Requirements Bonds, Insurance and Liens Contract Requirements and Execution Licensing Requirements Safety Public Works Instructor: Michael…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

January 29 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

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WEBINAR Creating a Public Relations Campaign for Your Business

January 30 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Free

Publicizing your business is one of the most important steps a small business owner can take. Letting prospective customers/clients know about your business while building relationships with them is essential for growth and stability. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of launching a public relations campaign. Attendees will discover the importance of research, planning, identifying their key audiences and developing strategies and tactics. Participants will consider case studies, and be guided step-by-step through the process of creating their own public relations campaign. This is an essential workshop for any small business…

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WEBINAR Social Media Solutions: Making Facebook Ads Work For You

January 31 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will uncover the mysteries of using Facebook Ads to grow your business. Regardless of your experience in Facebook Ads, this training will teach you how to set up your campaigns for success and get more from your advertising budget. In this workshop you will learn: i. If you’re running your Facebook Ads correctly ii. The 5 pillars of successful Facebook Ads iii. The one thing that may be holding back your Facebook Ads iv. Why a marketing funnel is essential in…

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February 2024

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

February 6 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

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WEBINAR Writing a Winning Press Release

February 6 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Free

You’ve got a hot new product or service that you would like your prospective customers to know about. Or maybe, there has been a problem at your business that is attracting media attention. Whatever, the circumstance, knowing how to prepare a professional press release is a valuable skill for any business owner. In this webinar, we will examine what the media is looking for in a good press release. This a a hands-on workshop where participants will learn the parts of a press release and how to attract the attention of media…

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WEBINAR Biz Basics: Accounting: The Basics of the Language of Business

February 7 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

Accounting is the system of tracking the income, expenses, assets and liabilities of business. Owners, managers, bankers, investors – use accounting terms and concepts to describe the events that make up the “story”. This workshop will explain the basics of how to make journal entries including debits and credits, the structure of financial statements, important financial ratios, and, more importantly, how to “account” for the transactions in your business. Instructor: Andrew Strachan REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Money Matters: How to Finance Your Business

February 7 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will provide an overview of available options for financing your business. Equity and debt options as well as crowd funding and the process for raising capital from friends and family will be discussed. Details on what you need to know to apply for a business loan, as well the required documents and paperwork needed for the application process will be provided. The various types of financial institutions and which institutions are currently loaning money and what you will…

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WEBINAR AI for Social Media: An Intro to Best Practices for Integrating AI into Real World Content

February 8 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

This workshop will define the basics of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through the lens of ChatGPT. What is AI? What is ChatGPT? Should ChatGPT be used in your social media strategies? We'll discuss how to use ChatGPT as a tool to create, visualize and strategize content for social media.   Instructor: Chérmelle Edwards (SBDC Advisor) REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Money Matters: Angel Investment 101 for Start-Ups

February 13 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Funding and financing your business are extremely important. One of the options that comes up is angel investment. What does angel investment mean? How often does it happen? Is your business a candidate? What steps to take? What do you need? Webinar presenter Tim Berry has been on both sides of this table. He successfully raised investment for his business. And he has been an angel investor for more than a decade.   In this webinar, Tim answers key questions…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

February 13 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

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WEBINAR Website E-Smarts Series

February 15 @ 10:00 am - February 29 @ 12:00 pm
|Recurring Event (See all)

One event on February 15, 2024 at 10:00 am

One event on February 22, 2024 at 10:00 am

One event on February 29, 2024 at 10:00 am

free

2/15/2024 – Website 101 How to Plan Your New Website: This workshop is a starter course for business owners looking to build their first website. We will discuss what makes a good website and look at some things to consider before making an investment in one. We will compare and contrast the various options available in the marketplace for building a website, and cover the basics of search engine optimization, analytics and website security.   2/22/2024 – Website 102 Usability Design Basics…

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WEBINAR Pump Up Your 2024 Marketing Plan—Get My Free Checklist!

February 15 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

It’s time to review and pump up your 2024 Marketing Plan! Learn how to market your business more effectively in 2024. This webinar will help you define your marketing goals and use my marketing checklist to target your market with the right digital & traditional marketing tools to get the results you desire. Learn how to grow your business smarter, save money and time while growing your customer & lead list.   This Workshop Will Teach You: • What marketing tools are…

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WEBINAR Navigating SBIR/STTR (Research & Technology) Grants

February 21 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Free

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs provide an opportunity for small businesses to tap into federal funding to conduct research and development on promising new innovations and technologies.  With $4 billion available annually, the programs are a source of seed capital for early stage companies. SBIR/STTR funding can also serve as a pathway to equity financing by allowing businesses to demonstrate feasibility of new technologies and move toward commercialization. This webinar will cover…

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WEBINAR Wave Accounting for Startups and Service Businesses

February 21 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Free

Keeping track of your business income and expenses is crucial to the financial health of your company. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be complicated! This webinar will cover how to use Wave, a free online accounting software program to help keep you on track. Wave is designed for small business owners. No jargon, just an easy accounting software for small business that makes sense.  This webinar is not for companies with inventory. Instructor: Maureen Thielen  REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Legal Corner: Stop the Madness – Getting Control of Time and Organizing Your Business

February 22 @ 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Free

Start off 2024 by getting your business organized and working smart by using proven techniques to identify challenges. We will discuss methods to relieve and/or eliminate them! Learn how you can have a life and a successful business at the same time. Join Attorney Ben Martin who loves helping new and small businesses, survive and thrive. With over 20 years of experience working for SBDCs, Non-profit Entrepreneurship Programs, and Pro Bono service to people wanting to build their futures. Ben has…

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WEBINAR Human Resources Basics and Preparing your Business for Employees

February 23 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Free

This critical HR training will guide you through the basics of what HR is and how to prepare your business for employees before you hire them. Learning these steps will help protect your business from unintended risks and provide you valuable California based HR knowledge and best practices.   Instructor: Sara Nicholson REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Taking Charge of Your Career through Franchise & Business Ownership

February 27 @ 10:00 am - 11:30 am
free

Are you looking to get into business ownership but don’t know where to start? Discover what type of business could leverage your professional acumen and have a team to support you build a successful company. During our webinar learn what type of businesses excelled through Covid and are Recession Resistant. Additional topics we will be covering:  Buying into a Franchise & Running your New Business The Surprisingly low upfront cost The different types of Franchise Models Whether franchising is a…

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WEBINAR Biz Basics: Lean Business Planning

February 27 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Lean business planning is not what you think. Not a big formal plan. Not just for startups. Quick and practical tool for managing through a crisis. It’s as quick and easy as a few simple bullet point lists and tables to set down milestones and metrics. Plus powerful tools to manage sales, spending, and cash flow. Make a quick dashboard for getting through a crisis. Join this webinar as Tim Berry, founder of bplans.com and Palo Alto Software, shares the simplicity and ease…

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WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

February 27 @ 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR E-Smarts: Digital Marketing Automation-Leverage Your Business Growth

February 28 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will go over how you can set up an automated Digital Marketing system to grow your business by leverage your time using systems. Regardless of your business, you will learn how to take advantage of automation to beat your competitors and free up your valuable time. In this workshop you will discover: How to find and attract potential customers How to take interested leads and turn them into paying customers How to increase the lifetime value of your customers How…

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WEBINAR Biz Basics: How to go from Handyman to Construction

February 29 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
free

Join us for this insightful presentation to learn how you can go from Handyman to starting a Construction company. Upon completion of this course, participants will discover how to obtain a contractor’s license and start a Construction business. Presented by our advisor, Michael Williams who has 30 years of experience helping people pass the CSLB exam. Topics we will cover: Business Organization Business Finances Employment Requirements Bonds, Insurance and Liens Contract Requirements and Execution Licensing Requirements Safety Public Works Instructor: Michael…

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March 2024

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

March 5 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Creating a Personal Media List and Contacting the Media

March 5 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
free

A customized media list is a must-have resource for successful business owners. In any given year, there are typically several opportunities to contact the media with the goal of getting positive coverage for your product or service. Compiling your own media list requires an investment in time and effort–but the results are well worth the hard work. There are also paid services, and in this workshop, participants will learn where to find them and how to determine which best suits your…

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WEBINAR Biz Basics: How to Start Your Business Financials in Excel

March 6 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Free

Overcome your fear of starting with an empty Excel spreadsheet and become proficient to create your own Profit and Loss statement for your business. This workshop will cover the basic Excel functions necessary to develop your financials and then build a basic Profit and Loss statement. We will also see how you can download your bank activity and use filters to analyze the data, a powerful tool. Basic computer knowledge is required for this class. Instructor: Andrew Strachan (SBDC Advisor) REGISTER…

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WEBINAR Money Matters: How to Finance Your Business

March 6 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will provide an overview of available options for financing your business. Equity and debt options as well as crowd funding and the process for raising capital from friends and family will be discussed. Details on what you need to know to apply for a business loan, as well the required documents and paperwork needed for the application process will be provided. The various types of financial institutions and which institutions are currently loaning money and what you will…

Find out more »

WEBINAR E-Smarts: How to Use Technology to Adapt Your Business and Reach New Customers

March 7 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Free

As consumers get younger & more tech-savvy, businesses need to pivot to find and appeal to new customers. We will investigate the strategies used by successful companies, and look at the various areas that you can adapt your business in the Digital age. Keeping up with the times is vitally important to keep your edge in a competitive marketplace. You will learn how to use technology to: Find new customers Improve your customer communications Get more leads and sales Integrate…

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WEBINAR Money Matters: Angel Investment 101 for Start-Ups

March 12 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Funding and financing your business are extremely important. One of the options that comes up is angel investment. What does angel investment mean? How often does it happen? Is your business a candidate? What steps to take? What do you need? Webinar presenter Tim Berry has been on both sides of this table. He successfully raised investment for his business. And he has been an angel investor for more than a decade.   In this webinar, Tim answers key questions…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

March 12 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Drip Marketing Campaigns-Automate & Maximize Your Lists!

March 13 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
free

It’s time to market smarter by targeting customers using drip marketing campaigns to maximize your impact and identify your next best customer. Learn how to automate your follow-up and bring more customers to your website, shopping cart or donation page. Get my 10 Tips to segment your marketing lists, use landing pages and customize content for easy marketing automation. We’ll target your emails and landing pages, tag key list properties and provide social media tools and post tips to deliver…

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WEBINAR How to Increase Profitability

March 13 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
free

Do you know what to do to increase the profitability of your business?  In this workshop, learn the 5 ways to improve profitability.  Learn how to review your company’s financials and compare your business performance with industry competitors.  In conjunction with your advisor, you will be able to access reports customized for your business that shows where you are excelling and where improvement is needed.  You will also see how to quickly and easily create an online pitch or business…

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WEBINAR CROWDFUNDING SERIES: The Newest Way For Startups & Entrepreneurs to Raise Capital

March 14 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am
|Recurring Event (See all)

An event every week that begins at 9:00 am on Thursday, repeating until March 28, 2024

Free

In the past, when someone wanted to fund something — be it a project, a company, or anything that required capital to start — there were a few ways to raise money. They could take on debt from a loan. They could raise money from friends, family members, and angel or VC investors. They could even take the “bootstrapping” route and scrounge up as much money as possible to fund the project themselves. In the late 2000s, a fourth option…

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WEBINAR Social Media: How to Tell Your Story, How to Sell Your Brand

March 14 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
free

This workshop is to help businesses with existing social media platforms to take their business to a higher level. This workshop will answer: What is Social Media storytelling. What is the difference between building a business and selling a brand? You will learn key ways to tell a story without overselling your audience. We will discuss examples of current brands and businesses who are leveraging specific platforms to ‘sell’. You will leave the webinar with an understanding of how to communicate…

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WEBINAR Human Resources: Do’s and Don’ts of Hiring

March 15 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Free

This training is designed to assist California small business owners create a realistic and compliant strategy to legally hire employees. Instructor: Sara Nicholson REGISTER NOW

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WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

March 19 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR The Basics of Starting a Business

March 19 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
free

Learn the fundamentals of what it takes to get your business started. We will discuss what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur and the important steps that need to be taken to begin your business.   Topics of discussion will include: -What it takes to be an entrepreneur -Legal requirements and different legal types including sole proprietorship (DBA), and LLC and S-Corp, -Building your team of experts, including CPA’s, Atty, Bank, Web and marketing experts and industry mentor -Office…

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WEBINAR E-Smarts: Dominating Your Local Market Online

March 20 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free

This workshop will go over methods and strategies to leverage online marketing and social media to dominate your local market. If you’re looking for ways to attract new customers then this training will show you how to avoid common pitfalls and get ahead of your competition. In this workshop you will discover: i. The 4 areas of Digital Marketing that are essential to a successful business ii. Why the way people perceive you online makes all the difference iii. The proper way to…

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WEBINAR CROWDFUNDING SERIES: The Newest Way For Startups & Entrepreneurs to Raise Capital

March 21 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am
|Recurring Event (See all)

An event every week that begins at 9:00 am on Thursday, repeating until March 28, 2024

Free

In the past, when someone wanted to fund something — be it a project, a company, or anything that required capital to start — there were a few ways to raise money. They could take on debt from a loan. They could raise money from friends, family members, and angel or VC investors. They could even take the “bootstrapping” route and scrounge up as much money as possible to fund the project themselves. In the late 2000s, a fourth option…

Find out more »

WEBINAR CROWDFUNDING SERIES: The Newest Way For Startups & Entrepreneurs to Raise Capital

March 21 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Free

In the past, when someone wanted to fund something — be it a project, a company, or anything that required capital to start — there were a few ways to raise money. They could take on debt from a loan. They could raise money from friends, family members, and angel or VC investors. They could even take the “bootstrapping” route and scrounge up as much money as possible to fund the project themselves. In the late 2000s, a fourth option…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Legal Corner: How to Make Your Contract Choices

March 21 @ 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
free

Learn what choices you can have in contracts for your business. When we go to a restaurant…. they have menus to let us know what is possible for us to order. You pick your item…they ask “how would you like that” cooked? or seasoned? or a special version? Learn what is available to ask for in contracts and tips about “how would you like that” to benefit your business. Contracts in business are like hamburgers at In & Out Burger. Know what you want… you…

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WEBINAR Biz Basics: Lean Business Planning

March 26 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Free

Lean business planning is not what you think. Not a big formal plan. Not just for startups. Quick and practical tool for managing through a crisis. It’s as quick and easy as a few simple bullet point lists and tables to set down milestones and metrics. Plus powerful tools to manage sales, spending, and cash flow. Make a quick dashboard for getting through a crisis. Join this webinar as Tim Berry, founder of bplans.com and Palo Alto Software, shares the simplicity and ease…

Find out more »

WEBINAR Orientation: What the SBDC Can Do for You!

March 26 @ 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Free

This workshop will provide attendees with information about the program requirements and the different services and training offered by the SBDC. The key fundamentals essential for starting and maintaining a successful business will be reviewed. As capital is the life blood of any business, your questions concerning capital and how the SBDC can assist in this effort will be addressed. And as a special bonus, the critical reasons why products/services sell will also be discussed. Attendance is required for existing,…

Find out more »

WEBINAR CROWDFUNDING SERIES: The Newest Way For Startups & Entrepreneurs to Raise Capital

March 28 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am
|Recurring Event (See all)

An event every week that begins at 9:00 am on Thursday, repeating until March 28, 2024

Free

In the past, when someone wanted to fund something — be it a project, a company, or anything that required capital to start — there were a few ways to raise money. They could take on debt from a loan. They could raise money from friends, family members, and angel or VC investors. They could even take the “bootstrapping” route and scrounge up as much money as possible to fund the project themselves. In the late 2000s, a fourth option…

Find out more »

WEBINAR CROWDFUNDING SERIES: The Newest Way For Startups & Entrepreneurs to Raise Capital

March 28 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Free

In the past, when someone wanted to fund something — be it a project, a company, or anything that required capital to start — there were a few ways to raise money. They could take on debt from a loan. They could raise money from friends, family members, and angel or VC investors. They could even take the “bootstrapping” route and scrounge up as much money as possible to fund the project themselves. In the late 2000s, a fourth option…

Find out more »
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