Maryland Women's Business Center

Local SEO: How to Dominate Your Local Market without Breaking the Bank [Webinar]
2025-05-15 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
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Unlock the power of Local SEO and gain a competitive edge in your service area. Learn how to get found locally from industry experts at WSI. This session will equip you with the latest techniques and free tools to make your business stand out in local search results.
Key takeaways:

Optimize your Google Business Profile for maximum visibility
Generate and manage positive customer reviews
Leverage free tools to enhance your local online presence
Implement effective strategies to attract local customers

Discover insider tips and resources to:

Improve your local search rankings
Increase foot traffic and phone calls
Outshine competitors in your area

Whether you’re new to Local SEO or looking to refine your strategy, this session offers valuable insights for businesses of all sizes. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to dominate your local market cost-effectively.
Join us to transform your local online presence and drive real business growth in your community.

MWBC Office Closed - Memorial Day
2025-05-26 | MD
The Maryland Women’s Business Center will be closed in observation of Memorial Day.

Coffee & Connections Frederick County: Pricing with Confidence
2025-05-29 10:00 - 11:30 | Municipal Office Annex – Annex Conference Room C, 140 W Patrick Street, Frederick, 21701
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Join MWBC Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, for networking with other women business owners in Frederick County during our monthly Coffee and Connections meeting.
This month’s installment features a hands-on session with Rachel Collins from Living Well Financial Coaching to help entrepreneurs set aligned, confident pricing for their services. Participants will use a guided worksheet to map out income goals, clarify service offerings, and lay the groundwork for a strong, values-driven business.
About the Speaker
Rachel Collins is a on a mission to transform people’s money stories. She partners with women and couples who feel scattered and frustrated with their finances, guiding them on taking simple steps to gain control and grow their confidence with money.
When she’s not coaching, speaking or leading workshops, Rachel is either volunteering at church, out for a run, playing in the dirt in her garden, or being silly with her three young children.

Please note the "Add to calendar" button below does not register you for the training/event.
Click the REGISTER button above to complete your registration.

Is Your Business Lender Ready? [Webinar]
2025-06-03 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Join Libo “Bo” Huen, Supervisory Economic Development Specialist at the SBA Washington Metropolitan Area District Office, for this free quarterly webinar to help you find out if you’re ready for a business loan.
Bo will be covering:

Business tax documents, such as a Schedule C, and why lenders always ask for them
The three financial statements (income statement, cash flow statement, and balance sheet)
The business model, its profitability, and how it helps the lender understand your business

MWBC Office Closed - Juneteenth
2025-06-19 | MD
The Maryland Women’s Business Center will be closed in observation of Juneteenth.

How to Start a Consulting Business from Scratch [Webinar]
2025-06-25 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Considering consulting? Had a few clients but feel stuck? Decided consulting is the right path but aren’t sure where to start? This free one hour webinar, OMG: How to Start a Consulting Business from Scratch provides you clarity, direction, and simple actions to build your business with confidence. With the help of real-life examples, this presentation covers:

The 5 Pillars of a successful consulting business
Three essential actions to create clients right away (the remaining actions can occur when you and your business are ready)
Common mistakes consultants make and how to avoid them You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of what is needed to be successful, a plan that you can implement immediately, and access to free tools and resources to help you get started.

After registering, you will receive webinar information and login details.
Hosted by the Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia, this webinar is in partnership with:

Maryland Women’s Business Center – https://marylandwbc.org/
Maryland Capital Enterprises Women’s Business Center (WBC) – https://womensbusinesscenteratmarylandcapitalenterprises.org/

Coffee & Connections Frederick County: Marketing Ecosystem Map
2025-06-26 10:00 - 11:30 | Frederick County Pop-Up, 102 W. Main Street, Middletown, MD, 21769, United States
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Join MWBC Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, at the Frederick County Pop-Up curated by MWBC Shop Local for networking with other women business owners in Frederick County during our monthly Coffee and Connections meeting.
This month’s Coffee & Connections features Sass Magazine‘s founder, Kim Dow, who will help participants assess how their business shows up across digital, print, and real-world platform by using a ‘Marketing Ecosystem Map’. Participants will identify gaps, uncover opportunities, and walk away with a clearer picture of how to create a well-rounded marketing strategy in an interactive, discussion-based workshop.
About the Speaker
Kim Dow is the owner and publisher of Sass Magazine, a lifestyle and professional women’s magazine based in Frederick, MD. Kim is also the owner of Sass Studios, a boutique graphic design studio in Frederick, MD.

Government Contracting 101: Laying the Groundwork for Success [Webinar]
2025-07-01 12:00 - 13:15 | Virtual
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Are you curious about selling your products or services to the government? While federal contracts often grab the spotlight, many small businesses find their first—and best—opportunities at the local and state levels. This introductory session will walk you through the essential first steps to help you build a strong business history and position yourself for long-term success in the government marketplace.
Join us to learn:

How to assess your readiness and determine eligibility
Where to start: local, state, and other accessible opportunities
What it takes to effectively market your business to government buyers

Hosted by the Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia in partnership with:

Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC)
Maryland Capital Enterprises Women’s Business Center (WBC)
Women’s Business Center of Central Virginia
Capital Region Women’s Business Center
Virginia APEX Accelerator

MWBC Office Closed - Independence Day
2025-07-04 | MD
The Maryland Women’s Business Center will be closed in observation of Independence Day.

Using AI for Your Business
2025-07-10 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
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Curious about how AI can help your business—but not sure where to start?
This beginner-friendly session is designed just for you!
Join us to discover how artificial intelligence can simplify your day-to-day operations, save you valuable time, and help you grow your business—no tech background required. You’ll learn how to use smart, accessible tools to streamline tasks like scheduling, marketing, customer service, and more.
Whether you’re launching a new venture or looking to work smarter in your current business, this training will give you practical strategies to boost productivity and stay ahead of the curve.
About the Speaker
Jessica Wynter Martin is a seasoned Fractional Chief AI Officer and the founder & CEO of JWM Concepts LLC. An accomplished public speaker and educator, she has dedicated over 15 years to helping politicians and organizations develop effective office management and campaign strategies. Jessica is passionate about bridging social and educational gaps through technology, making a significant impact in the fields of education and international development.

How to Get a "Yes" to Your Business Loan Request
2025-07-17 11:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
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Struggling to get approval or favorable terms from your creditors? Join financial expert Shelly Gross Wade for a powerful session designed to help small business owners and entrepreneurs navigate creditor relationships with confidence and strategy.
In this webinar, you’ll learn:

How to prepare and present your financials to inspire trust
Key factors creditors consider before saying “yes”
Common mistakes to avoid when seeking credit or renegotiating terms
Practical tips to strengthen your creditworthiness and negotiation position

Whether you’re applying for a loan, seeking better terms, or trying to rebuild trust with lenders, this session will equip you with the tools and insights to turn a “maybe” into a “yes.”
Who Should Attend: Small business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to improve their credit relationships and access to capital.

Reboot: Your Entrepreneurial Launchpad [Prince George's County]
2025-07-19 09:00 - 15:00 | Bowie Senior Center, 14900 Health Center Dr, Bowie, MD, 20716
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Ready to turn your big idea into bold action? Reboot: Your Entrepreneurial Launchpad is a high-energy, one-day immersion into the mindset, tools, and knowledge that every aspiring entrepreneur (or current business owner who’s feeling a little stuck) needs. Whether you’re starting from scratch or reigniting your vision, this event is your spark to launch, grow, and thrive.
At this hands-on event, learn how to:
• Cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset (led by Karen Sippel, Managing Director, Maryland Women’s Business Center)
• Set your business up for success (led by Cindy Butler, Director, WBC of Nothern Virginia)
• Navigate the logistics of starting a business in Maryland (featuring local experts from Prince George’s County)
• Develop a network of expert business advisors to have on call (led by Angie Duncanson, business consultant)
• Create a Business Model Canvas in 60 minutes (led by Robert Sherry, Adjunct Professor, Pepperdine University)
This event is particularly relevant to former federal workers or contractors who are navigating the journey from employee to entrepreneur. Each attendee will walk away with new connections and a workbook of tools and resources.
**No charge**
**Lunch provided**
**Workbook provided**
Reboot your thinking. Launch your future.
MWBC’s Reboot is supported by:

Reboot: Your Entrepreneurial Launchpad [Montgomery County]
2025-07-24 09:00 - 15:00 | Montgomery College – Science West Building – SW 301, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, MD, 20850, United States
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Ready to turn your big idea into bold action? Reboot: Your Entrepreneurial Launchpad is a high-energy, one-day immersion into the mindset, tools, and knowledge that every aspiring entrepreneur (or current business owner who’s feeling a little stuck) needs. Whether you’re starting from scratch or reigniting your vision, this event is your spark to launch, grow, and thrive.
At this hands-on event, learn how to:
• Cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset (led by Karen Sippel, Managing Director, Maryland Women’s Business Center)
• Set your business up for success (led by Cindy Butler, Director, WBC of Northern Virginia)
• Navigate the logistics of starting a business in Maryland (featuring local experts from Montgomery County)
• Develop a network of expert business advisors to have on call (led by Angie Duncanson, business consultant)
• Create a Business Model Canvas in 60 minutes
This event is particularly relevant to former federal workers or contractors who are navigating the journey from employee to entrepreneur. Each attendee will walk away with new connections and a workbook of tools and resources.
**No charge**
**Lunch provided**
**Workbook provided**
Reboot your thinking. Launch your future.

MWBC’s Reboot is supported by:

Assembling Your BAIL Team: B is for Banker
2025-07-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Kick off B.A.I.L. Week with a deep dive into the essential role of banking in your business journey. Gideon Gaines from M&T Bank will guide you through the fundamentals of business banking—from choosing the right accounts to understanding credit, financing options, and how to build a strong relationship with your banker.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, this session will help you make informed, strategic financial decisions.
Hosted by the Maryland Women’s Business Center in partnership with:

Women’s Business Center at Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc.
Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia

Assembling Your BAIL Team: A is for Accountant
2025-07-29 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Numbers tell the story of your business—and Katie Hanna from Details Matter Bookkeeping & Advisory is here to help you read it. In this session, you’ll learn the basics of bookkeeping, how to track your income and expenses, and why clean financials are critical for funding, taxes, and growth.
Katie will also share practical tools and tips to help you stay organized and confident in your financial management.
Hosted by the Maryland Women’s Business Center in partnership with:

Women’s Business Center at Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc.
Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia

Assembling Your BAIL Team: I is for Insurance
2025-07-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Insurance isn’t just a safety net—it’s a smart business strategy. Jennifer Calara, Financial Advisor and Insurance Broker, will break down the types of insurance every entrepreneur should consider, from liability to life and disability coverage.
Learn how to assess your risks, choose the right policies, and protect your business, your team, and your future.
Hosted by the Maryland Women’s Business Center in partnership with:

Women’s Business Center at Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc.
Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia

Assembling Your BAIL Team: L is for Lawyer
2025-07-31 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Wrap up B.A.I.L. Week with a powerful session on the legal foundations of entrepreneurship. Ginny Bonifacino, founder of Maryland’s first Certified B Corporation™ law firm, will walk you through business formation, contracts, intellectual property, and how to align your legal strategy with your values.
This session is perfect for founders who want to build not just a business—but a legacy.
Hosted by the Maryland Women’s Business Center in partnership with:

Women’s Business Center at Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc.
Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia

MWBC Extended Hours
2025-08-04 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-09-02 17:00 - 19:00 | MD
MWBC is open from 5:00pm, to 7:00pm the first Monday (except holidays) of every month.

Overview of SBA Programs and Services [Webinar]
2025-08-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Join Economic Development Specialist of the Washington Metropolitan Area District Office, Nirav “Nick” Rajpara, for this free quarterly info session covering SBA programs and services.

Please note the "Add to calendar" button below does not register you for the training/event.
Click the REGISTER button above to complete your registration.

Frederick County Chamber of Commerce S.H.E. Pitch Competition - Frederick County
2025-08-06 17:30 - 20:00 | Hood College, 401 Rosemont Ave, Frederick, MD, 21701, United States
Ever wanted to watch a Shark Tank pitch in real time? Or get the inside scoop on new business and expansions? Now’s your chance! The finalists from the S.H.E. Pitch competition will be pitching their businesses to a panel of judges and a live audience on Wednesday, August 6th. ​These finalists have gone through a rigorous amount of time to nail down their perfect pitch. You don’t want to miss out on seeing the competition! Winners will be awarded over $10,000 in prizes that evening. And YOU get the chance to cast a vote for the People’s Choice Award.
SHE Pitch is free and open to the public.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6 | 5:30PM | HOOD COLLEGE HODSON AUDITORIUM IN ROSENSTOCK HALL
Learn more about S.H.E. Pitch at https://www.frederickchamber.org/sheweek2025.html

Maryland's VSBE/SBR Programs & Certification Workshop
2025-08-08 09:00 - 13:00 | Howard County Economic Development Authority, 6715 Columbia Gateway Drive #500, Columbia, MD, 21046, United States
Join the Maryland Governor’s Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs, Howard County Economic Development Authority, and Maryland Innovation Center for an informative Certification Workshop. Also hear from local resource partners, like the Maryland Women’s Business Center about the services they have available. This workshop is designed to assist vendors seeking a Certified Small Business (CSB) certification or re-certification for the Small Business Reserve (SBR) Program and the Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) Program.

Banking & Budgeting Basics
2025-08-13 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Join us for a practical session on managing your money with confidence!
Lydia Faleye, Banking Officer and Financial Inclusion Leader at Truist Bank, will guide you through the basics of banking, how to assess your budget and savings plan, and share tips for building or repairing your credit.
Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to strengthen their financial foundation.

Government Contracting for Beginners - Part 1 [Webinar]
2025-08-20 12:00 - 13:00 | MD
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Join Economic Development Specialist of the Washington Metropolitan Area District Office, Nirav “Nick” Rajpara, for this free quarterly webinar covering the basics of government contracting.

Please note the "Add to calendar" button below does not register you for the training/event.
Click the REGISTER button above to complete your registration.

Government Contracting for Beginners - Part 2
2025-08-27 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
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Join Economic Development Specialist of the Washington Metropolitan Area District Office, Nirav “Nick” Rajpara, for this free quarterly webinar covering the basics of government contracting.

Coffee & Connections Frederick County: How She Did It!
2025-08-28 10:00 - 11:15 | Serenity Swimming, 331 Aviation Way, Suite 1, Frederick, 21701, United States
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Join MWBC Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, at the Frederick County Coffee & Connections for a morning of networking, inspiration, and connection with fellow women entrepreneurs.
This month’s Coffee & Connections features Jenni Hoover, owner of Serenity Swimming, who will join Karen for a candid conversation on “How She Did It!” Hear Jenni’s story of launching and growing her business in Frederick County, the challenges she’s overcome, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Whether you’re just getting started or looking for fresh motivation, this interactive session will leave you energized and encouraged.
About the Speakers
Karen Kalantzis is a Senior Business Consultant at the Maryland Women’s Business Center, where she supports women entrepreneurs through every stage of business development—from idea to expansion.
Jenni Hoover is the owner of Serenity Swimming, a local swim school dedicated to helping children and adults gain confidence and safety in the water. With a passion for community and empowerment, Jenni has built a thriving business centered on trust, growth, and care.

MWBC Office Closed - Labor Day
2025-09-01 | MD
The Maryland Women’s Business Center will be closed in observation of Labor Day.

Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce Women's Leadership Conference
2025-09-10 07:30 - 12:00 | Lakewood Country Club, 13901 Glen Mill Road, Rockville, MD, 20850, United States
Join the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural Women’s Leadership Conference, designed to uplift, empower, and elevate women in business.
Enjoy a plated breakfast, keynote speaker, and 3 panels:

Having a Strong Foundation for Your Business to Thrive.
Entrepreneur Panel
Doing It All, Successfully

Plus, visit with resource partners including Rockville Economic Development, Inc. and the Maryland Women’s Business Center!

Montgomery County Resources for Your Business
2025-09-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Learn how the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC), Montgomery County Business Center, Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL), and Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) can help you with your small business.
Each organization offers unique resources for all business owners, from aspiring entrepreneurs to matured businesses looking to expand.
Access these resources by joining this FREE information session!

How to Do Business with Montgomery County
2025-09-16 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
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Learn how to do business with Montgomery County! Hosted quarterly with Montgomery County Office of Procurement. During this free webinar, hear about:
– Overview of how to register your business with Montgomery County
– Where to find solicitations on Montgomery County website
– Overview of Montgomery County compliance programs – Local Small Business Reserve Program and Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned (MFD)
