Maryland Women's Business Center

Financing Your Business [Webinar]
2024-01-17 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
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Learn about financing options for your startup, growing venture, or mature business with this webinar by SBA Business Opportunity Specialist, Roderick L. Johnson.
Attendees will learn about:

Business financing stages
Starting your business
Lending requirements
Business plan essentials
Traditional financing
Small Business Administration (SBA)
Bank loans
Non-traditional financing

Elements of Entrepreneurship: Launch Your Business [WEBINAR]
2024-01-18 10:00 - 11:30 | Virtual
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Our “Elements of Entrepreneurship” introduction to entrepreneurship course is a 4-part webinar series. It consists of a multi-layered learning experience that demystifies the process of taking a business from ideation to launch to growth. Through a mix of moderated training, interactive discussions, and assignments, you will learn how to transform a good idea into a sustainable business venture.
With so many moving parts and unknowns, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of entrepreneurship. The third “Elements of Entrepreneurship” course, Launch Your Business, aims to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to successfully launch your business.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Compare characteristics of common business structures and determine the best choice for your business.
Recognize factors that impact the business’s name.
Locate state and local resources to pay taxes and obtain professional or organizational licenses for the business.
Register a business in the state of Maryland.
Identify professional experts, organizations, and operational systems to support your business launch.

Once you complete this webinar, you’ll confidently understand the key steps to legally register and launch your business, the importance of surrounding yourself with expert advice and support resources, and some of the initial systems needed to successfully launch your business entity.
Register for all 4 courses in the series to get a bundle discount!

Starting Your Business in Bowie
2024-01-18 17:30 - 20:30 | Bowie City Hall, 15901 Fred Robinson Way, Bowie, MD, 20716, United States
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Join the Maryland Women’s Business Center and the City of Bowie’s Office of Economic Development for a comprehensive introduction to entrepreneurship. This in-person workshop provides insights into starting and growing a business, followed by expert advice on available resources in Bowie.
Bowie City Hall
15901 Fred Robinson Way
Bowie, MD 20716
Speakers
Madeline Cruz, Marketing Professional
Social con Cultura
Meet Madeline Cruz: founder and certified marketing professional behind Social con Cultura. For the past five years, she has dived into social media marketing, serving 90% Black, Brown, and immigrant-owned SMBs to deliver culturally adept campaigns. Through her work, she recognized a hunger for culture, representation and authenticity in online marketing content, this journey inspired the birth of Social con Cultura. In 2023, Madeline transformed her social media agency into a dynamic marketplace, providing on-demand content creators, transparent pricing, and culturally resonant content with results in just 24 hours.
Madeline’s exceptional contributions are acknowledged by industry leaders, such as LinkedIn, DigitalUndivided, Medium, Hispanic Executive Magazine, Hello Alice, and Canvas Rebel.
Sonya Hopson, CEO
Sage Services Group LLC
Sonya Hopson is the CEO of Sage Services Group LLC, a professional services firm located in Bowie MD. For over 20 years, Sonya has provided leadership on mission critical projects with a diverse range of public and private organizations to improve performance and strengthen organizational effectiveness.
Over the last 13 years, Sage has provided engineering and human capital program support to nearly twenty different Federal agencies, State government offices and commercial clients. Sage has established a history of helping leaders and organizations navigate difficult challenges and bringing leaders and their teams together to identify strengths and limitations and agree on goals. We are known as the team that thinks with the mind of an engineer yet operates with the heart of a teacher.
Sonya holds a BS degree in Physics from Norfolk State University, BS in Mechanical Engineering from University of Maryland-College Park, and a M.Ed. Educational Leadership and Administration from The George Washington University. She is a Certified Project Management Professional (PMI) and a Certified Safety Professional (BCSP).
She has served on the boards of several non-profit organizations including the Board of Trustees for the SEED School of Maryland and currently serves on the Board of Maryland DECA. Sonya is also an active member of the Prince George’s County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her most exciting role is mother to twin sons (Michael and Andrew) and daughter Jordan.
Tiara Andrews, Business Retention Specialist
City of Bowie
Tiara Andrews is the Business Retention Specialist for the City of Bowie. She is a native of Prince George’s County, and a product of its schools. Tiara graduated with honors from Prince George’s Community College with an associate degree in Criminal Justice Technology and completed her bachelor’s degree in Public Safety Administration at the University of Maryland Global Campus.
Tiara has almost twenty years of government service with municipalities in Prince George’s County in Code Compliance and is now pursuing her passion for helping businesses and entrepreneurs thrive. Tiara works with local businesses to identify resources that will allow their business to flourish and be successful. She also helps business owners find new commercial spaces that will meet their needs and vision to help them expand, grow, and succeed.
Tiara’s passion for helping people goes beyond economic development. As an entrepreneur and a licensed life insurance agent in Maryland and Florida, she helps families create generational wealth by providing them with information to secure their financial futures. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her husband of over 16 years and her two wonderful sons.
Ari’Anna Redmond, BSU Student, CEO
Tony’s Kitchen and Bakery
Ariana Redmond, a junior pre-med student at Bowie State University, is a driven individual with a passion for mental health advocacy and entrepreneurship. She honors her late father through her bakery business, “Tony’s Kitchen and Bakery,” specializing in allergy-friendly vegan treats. Ariana aspires to become a psychiatrist and plans to open a nonprofit mental health center to serve underserved youth, addressing vital needs in the African American community.

Space is limited, so RSVP now!

Speed Meet: Virtual Networking for Montgomery County
2024-01-23 11:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
REGISTER

Join us for this speed-dating style mixer on Zoom and meet other entrepreneurs in Montgomery County (though all are welcome)!
Attendees will be broken up into small Zoom breakout rooms to connect with each other. We will mix up the groups every few minutes and everyone will get a chance to network! Meet new people and use those connections to develop local professional relationships.

Elements of Entrepreneurship: Business Development Strategies [WEBINAR]
2024-01-25 10:00 - 11:30 | Virtual
REGISTER

Our “Elements of Entrepreneurship” introduction to entrepreneurship course is a 4-part webinar series. It consists of a multi-layered learning experience that demystifies the process of taking a business from ideation to launch to growth. Through a mix of moderated training, interactive discussions, and assignments, you will learn how to transform a good idea into a sustainable business venture.
Growing your business beyond the startup phase can be challenging. Scaling your business requires strategic planning, resources, effective execution, and forecasting for the future. In the fourth “Elements of Entrepreneurship” course, Business Development Strategies, we will discuss the key elements required to successfully expand your business.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Describe your ideal client.
Identify components of successful unique value propositions and business brands.
Discuss strategies to expand your network of clients.
Express a vision for your business’s future.

This webinar will dive deeper into several facets of business growth, such as successfully building your brand, engaging with ideal clients, and nurturing business relationships. It will prepare you to overcome some of the challenges that women entrepreneurs face, while also inspiring you to continuously dream about and implement expansion strategies.
Register for all 4 courses in the series to get a bundle discount!

Coffee & Connections Frederick County: Reflect, Release, and Rise: Paving Your Path to 2024 [Webinar]
2024-01-25 10:00 - 11:30 | Virtual
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Whether you are just starting your business or already took the plunge, surround yourself with other like-minded entrepreneurs. Join MWBC Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, for networking with other women business owners in Frederick County during our monthly Coffee and Connections meeting. Our speaker for January is Danielle Rizzo of Marielle Agency!
In this dynamic workshop, we’ll delve into the transformative power of reflection and intention-setting as we bid farewell to 2023 and embrace the opportunities of 2024.
Discover how to:

Reflect on the highs and lows of the past year to gain invaluable insights.
Identify and release obstacles holding you back from achieving your full potential.
Craft a clear vision for 2024, setting powerful intentions for your business and personal growth.
Be prepared to leave inspired, armed with actionable steps, and empowered to pave your path to success in the year ahead. Don’t miss this chance to unlock your potential and kickstart a purpose-driven 2024!

SBA Surety Bond Program [Webinar]
2024-01-31 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Surety bonds help small businesses win contracts by providing the customer with a guarantee that the work will be completed. They are crucial for many industries, especially construction and service-related businesses, as they provide a guarantee that you will fulfill your contractual obligations. Learn more about the SBA Surety Bond Program with this free informational webinar hosted by SBA Office of Surety Guarantees Area Director, Earnest Knott.
Speaker
Earnest L. Knott Jr., MBA
Area Director
Office of Surety Guarantees
Earnest.knott@sba.gov

MDOT Certification Programs Overview [Webinar]
2024-02-01 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Join MWBC for a free virtual information session where the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) will overview their four certification programs:

Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE)
Small Business Enterprise (SBE)

The webinar will cover:

An examination of the five eligibility standards
A review of the complete application process
An in-depth look at the Uniform Certification Application (UCA)
How to connect to business opportunities with the State of Maryland and offer some valuable marketing and business development tips
Q&A

MWBC Shop Local: Love Your Soul
2024-02-04 13:30 - 14:30 | MWBC Shop Local – Rockville Town Square, 36 D Maryland Ave, Rockville, 20850
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Get Hands-on with Self-Love: This 60-minute workshop is your interactive guide to discovery, where we explore the connection between your skin and your inner self. Learn how self-care rituals can unlock radiant skin and overall harmony.
Why skin? Your skin reflects your overall health. A healthy vibrant skin speaks a language of love by nurturing harmony with simple practices to fortify the “happy hormone” Dopamine. Join us for an interactive workshop dedicated to nurturing healthy habits and learning the techniques of Abhyanga also known as “Sneha” or Self-love. We’ll explore learning simple DIY Body Oil using organic grade essential oils and delve into the benefits of this Ayurvedic tool of Kansa.
Designed for ages 10 and up, join individually or with loved ones. Bring a friend and enjoy a self-care journey in this 60-minute workshop.
Every participant will receive a 15ml bottle of our Body oil to take home as a special gift.
*Please bring a yoga mat or something comfortable to sit on.
Hosted by Earth Radiance

Business Permitting in Montgomery County [Webinar]
2024-02-05 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Join this webinar cohosted with the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services to find out what business owners need to know about the permitting department and how to navigate the permitting process. Learn about permitting topics such as use and occupancy certificates and gain insight about what business owners need to know before signing a lease or buy a property.

WomenConnect Expo: Bridging Business, Resources, and Knowledge
2024-02-06 16:00 - 18:30 | Hera Hub DC, 5028 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC, DC, 20016, United States
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MWBC will be joining Hera Hub DC for the WomenConnect Expo: Bridging Business, Resources, and Knowledge! Attendees will learn more about the resources available in the DMV for women-owned businesses and network with other business owners in the area.
Can’t make the in-person event? Join the virtual session on Thursday, February 8 from 9:30am – 10:30am.
RSVP for virtual session

WomenConnect Expo: Bridging Business, Resources, and Knowledge [Virtual]
2024-02-08 09:30 - 10:30 | Virtual
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Join the virtual session of Hera Hub DC’s WomenConnect Expo: Bridging Business, Resources, and Knowledge! Attendees will learn more about the resources available in the DMV for women-owned businesses.
Rather attend in-person? Register for the in-person expo on Tuesday, February 6 from 4pm – 6:30pm

MWBC Shop Local: Love is in The Air
2024-02-10 11:00 - 19:00 | MWBC Shop Local – Rockville Town Square, 36 D Maryland Ave, Rockville, 20850
RSVP

Personalized Elegance at Our Jewelry Customization Table
Enjoy our exclusive jewelry customization table, where you can have a jewelry piece crafted just for you and tailored to your precise measurements using freshwater pearls and gold-plated materials. Each piece is made to reflect your unique style and elegance, a one-of-a-kind treasure created exclusively for you.
Small Businesses, Big Hearts (& Exclusive Discounts)
Discover exclusive Valentine’s discounts from our curated selection of small, women-owned businesses featured in our store. Each business brings a unique charm, offering you an array of products from fresh flowers & plant decor, to natural skincare, eco-friendly jewelry and imported goods from Mexico! Celebrate and empower women entrepreneurs while you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones, or a special treat for yourself.
Sparkle with Delight at Our Tinsel Hair Station
Add an extra sprinkle of Valentine’s Day magic with Fairy Hair! Transform your hairstyle into a shimmering masterpiece, delicately bejeweled with strands of sparkling tinsel.
Romantic Movies
As you wander through our shop, you can enjoy the romantic tales we’ll be showcasing. Our Valentine’s Day movie screening will feature heartwarming classics and modern love stories alike, setting the perfect backdrop for a day of shopping on the day of love & friendship.
Sweet Treats for Your Sweetheart
Indulge in the whimsy of Valentine’s Day with our exclusive themed sweet treats selection. After all, every heart deserves a little bit of sugar!
Join us in celebrating a day of love, laughter, and all things Valentine’s. Whether you’re coupled up, flying solo, or hanging with friends, our shop is your destination for a day sprinkled with love and memorable moments.

MWBC Shop Local: Galentine's Floral Class
2024-02-11 13:00 - 15:00 | MWBC Shop Local – Rockville Town Square, 36 D Maryland Ave, Rockville, 20850
Indulge in self-love this Valentine’s Day with an enchanting floral class designed exclusively for single women. Learn how to create and care for your own rose bouquet! Embrace creativity, blossoming friendships, and the joy of crafting your own beautiful arrangements. Join us for an empowering and delightful experience that celebrates the beauty within you. Light refreshments will be provided.
Hosted by DaisyyInTheGarden
RSVP: daisyyinthegarden@gmail.com

How to Do Business with the City of Rockville [Webinar]
2024-02-14 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Learn how to do business with the City of Rockville! During this free informational webinar, we will be covering:

Difference between city vs. county
Procurement process
Procurement path by threshold

Speaker:
Pat Ryan, CPPB, MBA
Principal Buyer
City of Rockville
Procurement Division

Applying to WOSB/EDWOSB [Webinar]
2024-02-14 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Learn about eligibility and the application process for the Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB) or Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) Program with this quarterly webinar by SBA Business Opportunity Specialist, Roderick L. Johnson.
This webinar has been rescheduled from Wednesday, February 7 to Wednesday, February 14.

Taller de Impuestos para Contratistas y Pequeños Negocios [en Persona en Español]
2024-02-14 12:00 - 14:00 | MWBC Shop Local Powered by The 3rd – Columbia, MD, 10215 Wincopin Cir, #100, Columbia, 21044, United States
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En este taller aprenderá sobre las regulaciones fiscales y el al mismo tiempo aumente sus conocimientos para esta temporada de impuestos.

Ahorre en sus impuestos invirtiendo en su compañía
Conozca todas las deducciones que puede incluir en su negocio
Como reportar los gastos correctamente para evitar auditorías
Como organizar pagos de empleados y contratistas

The 3rd
10215 Wincopin Cir, #100
Columbia, MD 21044
This in-person training will be taught in Spanish.

Prime Contracting in Maryland's Small Business Reserve (SBR) Program [Webinar]
2024-02-15 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Ready to become a prime contractor with the state of Maryland? Every small, minority, women and veteran business owner should consider participation in the SBR Program, a race- and gender-neutral procurement program that offers prime contracting opportunities on state-funded contracts. This class covers the program’s eligibility standards, the online certification process, and the pipeline for identifying SBR opportunities.
About the Speaker
Lisa Mitchell Sennaar
Small Business Reserve (SBR) Compliance Manager
Governor’s Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs
Lisa Mitchell Sennaar serves as a Small Business Reserve (SBR) Program Compliance Manager in the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs. As a coordinating office within the Executive Branch, the office connects the small business community to greater economic opportunities and has oversight of the state’s SBR, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), and Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) procurement programs across 70 agencies. Lisa is an experienced manager, liaison, administrator, and former small business owner. Her career includes a decade in local television news and talk radio. She works with small business owners daily to connect them to tools that can help improve how they navigate and compete in the state contracting arena. She also conducts external training for small business owners and internal training for state agency partners.
Lisa’s family, the Jackson Mitchells of Maryland, left their imprint on the Civil Rights Revolution of the 20th century. Lisa’s great-grandmother, Dr. Lillie May Carroll Jackson; grandmother, Juanita Jackson Mitchell; grandfather, Clarence M. Mitchell Jr; great-uncle, Congressman Parren J. Mitchell and father, State Senator Clarence M. Mitchell III founded and led local, state and national organizations that battled for human rights for Black people. Growing up in this environment emboldened her commitment to making access to opportunities fair through the advocacy and implementation of inclusive policies that leave no one behind.
Lisa is married and the mother of two college students and resides in Baltimore, Maryland.

IntHERact: Immersive Networking at Hammer & Stain Rockville
2024-02-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Hammer & Stain Rockville, 107B Gibbs St,, Rockville, MD, 20850, United States
TICKETS FOR THIS EVENT ARE OFF SALE
Featured Business
Let’s get crafty! The featured business of February is Hammer & Stain Rockville! Hear from owner, Michelle Izquierdo, about her experience as a woman-/Latina-owned business. Network with other entrepreneurs while you enjoy small bites, beverages, and participate in a fun DIY wood plaque designing workshop.
What does a ticket to this IntHERact event entail?

DIY wood plaque designing workshop
Small bites
Meet and learn from owner and artist, Michelle Izquierdo
Networking with other entrepreneurs and MWBC staff
MWBC Swag Bag

About Hammer & Stain Rockville
Hammer & Stain is a creative DIY workshop space for public workshops, private events, parties, summer camps, and other crafty get-togethers of all ages. Hammer & Stain offers a wide variety of wood signs and decor DIY projects to choose from and customize.

Thank you to our sponsHER!

The Chesapeake Framing Company is a woman-owned business located in Kensington, MD that has offered incredibly creative custom framing for 45 years! Our work is exceptional in quality and style, guided by your taste and budget. Our top-notch quality is priced comparably to large national chains but with our special personal touch. We also offer delivery and installation services to guarantee that your artwork is hung safely in the perfect spot in your home or office.
Learn more at www.chesapeakeframing.com

MWBC Office Closed - Presidents Day
2024-02-19 | MD
The Maryland Women’s Business Center will be closed in observation of Presidents Day.

Subcontracting in Maryland's Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Program [Webinar]
2024-02-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Are you looking to expand your company’s reach as a subcontractor? Participation in Maryland’s MBE Program offers a broad range of opportunities to perform as a subcontractor on state-funded contracts. During this session, we will provide a comprehensive look at the MBE rights and responsibilities in both the prime and subcontractor roles, examine best practices for navigating state procurement, and share insights on how to target your business development efforts within this competitive arena.

Tax Workshop for Contractors and Small Businesses [Webinar]
2024-02-21 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
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This program will teach you about tax regulations while also increasing your knowledge for the upcoming tax season.

Invest in your business to save money on taxes
Learn about all the business deductions available
How to properly disclose expenses to prevent audits
How to arrange payments for employees and contractors

Subcontracting Protocols in Maryland's Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) Program [Webinar]
2024-02-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Are you a veteran entrepreneur? Join us for a look at common procurement best practices, tactics, and protocols to assist subcontractors compete with greater confidence. Guests will receive tips on how to build relationships with prime contractors and how to protect your business when performing as a subcontractor. We will also cover Maryland’s Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) Program’s eligibility standards, the 3-step certification process, and strategies to mine the state’s open and transparent procurement pipelines.

Speed Meet: Virtual Networking for Montgomery County
2024-02-27 11:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
REGISTER

Join us for this speed-dating style mixer on Zoom and meet other entrepreneurs in Montgomery County (though all are welcome)!
Attendees will be broken up into small Zoom breakout rooms to connect with each other. We will mix up the groups every few minutes and everyone will get a chance to network! Meet new people and use those connections to develop local professional relationships.
Sessions hosted every fourth Tuesday of the month unless stated otherwise.

Please note the “Add to calendar” button below does not register you for the training/event. Please click the REGISTER button above.

Unlocking Your Business Growth: How to Transform Leads Into Lifelong Clients [Webinar]
2024-02-28 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
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This 1-hour virtual workshop equips entrepreneurs with a comprehensive strategy to transform leads into loyal customers using a clear, systematic approach. Participants will learn to map their sales process, identify essential systems for each phase, and optimize marketing to guide prospects through each step effectively. The session concludes with a personalized action plan to implement a cohesive sales strategy, aimed at moving leads towards becoming enthusiastic brand advocates, providing valuable insights for both product and service-based businesses.
Key takeaways include:

Learn how to map your sales journey
Identify key systems and workflows
Optimize your marketing strategy
Develop your customized action plan

About the Speaker

Paulette Piñero is an award-winning social entrepreneur, brand consultant, writer, and speaker dedicated to closing the opportunity gap for Latina entrepreneurs.
Through her marketing agency, Unstoppable Latina LLC, Paulette guides Women of Color and gender-expansive entrepreneurs to harness their strengths, amplify their voice, and live their purpose so they transform into the unstoppable CEOs of their small businesses. Using an equity and justice-focused approach, her marketing operations consulting strives to create a world where entrepreneurship is diverse, purpose-driven, and joyful.

Coffee & Connections Frederick County: Leap Into AI [Webinar]
2024-02-29 10:00 - 11:30 | Virtual
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Whether you are just starting your business or already took the plunge, surround yourself with other like-minded entrepreneurs. Join MWBC Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, for networking with other women business owners in Frederick County during our monthly Coffee and Connections meeting. Our speaker for February is Latrina Neal from Frederick Choice Digital!
Attendees will learn:

What is AI
Understanding AI in Marketing
Dos and Don’ts of Using AI for Small Business Marketing
Case Studies and Examples
Best Practices for Integrating AI into Your Marketing Strategy

Cybersecurity is a Competitive Advantage for Your Small Business [Webinar]
2024-02-29 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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You’ve worked hard to start and grow your business. Are you taking the steps necessary to protect it from cyber criminals? As small businesses have become more reliant upon data and technology to operate and scale a modern business, cybersecurity has become a fundamental risk that must be addressed alongside other business risks. Customers, supply chain partners, banks, insurers, etc. are increasingly expecting businesses of all sizes to have a strong cybersecurity posture.
A common misconception for small businesses is that they are too small to be targets of a cyber attack. However, size doesn’t matter to a cyber criminal. They are targeting anyone that serves their interest—often in order to gain your credentials and financial reward. Sometimes they are indiscriminate of business size or mission; sometimes they are targeting you because of your role in a supply chain. The cybersecurity risks to our interconnected systems are complex and pervasive, and it is not reasonable to expect most small businesses to be experts in cybersecurity. Most small business owners have limited time, resources, and cybersecurity expertise, which presents a challenge to setting up a cybersecurity program.
Learn practical steps you can take to begin protecting your business (and personal) assets from cyber attacks with this free webinar.
About the Speaker
Daniel Eliot
Lead for Small Business Engagement
Applied Cybersecurity Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Commerce
Daniel Eliot is the lead for small business engagement within the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Applied Cybersecurity Division. In this role, he works across NIST’s cybersecurity and privacy program to advise and support development of cybersecurity resources, communication materials, and collateral tailored for use by small businesses. He also regularly works directly with the small business community and their advocates through external outreach and engagement.
Prior to joining NIST, Daniel served in many roles supporting both cybersecurity and the small business community. After working in a 5-person start-up for many years, he joined the Delaware Small Business Development Center. There, he ran the SBIR/STTR program and also created a state-wide small business cybersecurity program based off the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. He then transitioned to the National Cybersecurity Alliance, where he served as director of small business education and director of education & strategic initiatives. Immediately before joining NIST, Daniel worked within MITRE Corporation’s Center for Securing the Homeland, serving as the chief communications strategist at the NIST National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence.

Elements of Entrepreneurship: Building a Strong Business Foundation [WEBINAR]
2024-03-04 10:00 - 11:30 | Virtual
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Our “Elements of Entrepreneurship” introduction to entrepreneurship course is a 4-part webinar series. It consists of a multi-layered learning experience that demystifies the process of taking a business from ideation to launch to growth. Through a mix of moderated training, interactive discussions, and assignments, you will learn how to transform a good idea into a sustainable business venture.
The first “Elements of Entrepreneurship” course, Building a Strong Business Foundation, provides participants with the essential knowledge on what to consider before starting a business.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Identify your inspiration for starting a business.
Distinguish characteristics of successful entrepreneurs.
Explore market feasibility of your business idea.
Describe options to cover startup expenses.
Understand how MWBC can support your business dream.

Whether you’re considering starting a small business to create a stable revenue stream or launching a startup that you can scale quickly, this webinar will provide you with the tools and skills necessary to make informed decisions before taking the next step.
Register for all 4 courses in the series to get a bundle discount!

Sharing Who You Are and What You Do, Through Branding and Marketing [Webinar]
2024-03-05 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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In a competitive and crowded business landscape, it is important to be able to clearly articulate who you are, and what you do…fast. In this webinar, we’ll cover how to go about building a brand and marketing your business, in a way that outshines the competition and connects with your target audience, so that they choose you.
About the Speaker
Dawn Foster
Dawn Foster, CEO of D. Foster Marketing, is a seasoned expert in the world of branding and marketing. For almost 20 years, she has worked with and led both large and small marketing teams to build brands and marketing strategies that span the globe. Dawn is an unapologetic branding and marketing nerd, with a passion for research, analytics, and great storytelling through words and images. She is passionate about helping business owners build and evolve their businesses with the right branding and marketing strategies and tactics. She has helped transform businesses and business owners into powerhouses through research, strategic planning and content development, education, and empowerment so that they can achieve success and reach their goals. As a business owner, her goal is to see others win, support her community, and do what she loves.

Elements of Entrepreneurship: Creating Your Business Blueprint [WEBINAR]
2024-03-11 10:00 - 11:30 | Virtual
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Our “Elements of Entrepreneurship” introduction to entrepreneurship course is a 4-part webinar series. It consists of a multi-layered learning experience that demystifies the process of taking a business from ideation to launch to growth. Through a mix of moderated training, interactive discussions, and assignments, you will learn how to transform a good idea into a sustainable business venture.
The role of planning is crucial for any successful business. The second “Elements of Entrepreneurship” course, Creating Your Business Blueprint, educates participants on how to create an effective business design, including key elements and best practices to consider for long-term success.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Explain a problem in the marketplace that your business solves.
Begin to articulate the business’s target market, competitors, and unique selling proposition.
Recognize key financial documents needed during business startup.
Identify operational considerations for starting the business.
Determine when and why businesses need a business plan or pitch deck.

Investing time to comprehensively map out your business blueprint before you launch will save you valuable resources in the long run. It will also raise important questions for you to consider as you move forward in creating a sustainable business.
Register for all 4 courses in the series to get a bundle discount!
