We believe in having a child like mind when it comes to learning. Open to all possibilities.
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS
Using AI to Develop an Email Outreach Sequence
Writing follow-up emails is time-consuming. This interactive workshop shows you how to use AI to create email outreach sequences that sound human and drive engagement. Email sequences are great for client follow-ups, lead nurturing, and re-engaging past customers.
Participating in this session you will learn how to:
How to build a 3-5 email sequence with AI
Personalizing emails without doing it all manually
Tools to schedule, send, and track performance
Know Your Numbers: How to Read and Use Your Financial Statements
If your bookkeeping is up and running, the next step is understanding what your numbers are telling you.
In this 90-minute bootcamp, we’ll demystify the core financial statements every small business owner should know—and show you how to use them to make better decisions.
You’ll learn:
What an income/profit & loss, balance sheet, and cash flow statement actually show
How to spot trends and red flags in your reports
How to make sense of these numbers in QuickBooks or a spreadsheet
How to use your financial data to plan, pivot, or seek funding
This session is ideal for business owners who already track their finances and want to become more confident and strategic in how they use that information.
This event is part of Capital Pathways, a no-cost program from the Virginia SBDC that helps small businesses get the funding they need to grow. The program is designed for very small (fewer than 10 employees), emerging, and growth-ready businesses that face challenges accessing traditional financing. It offers hands-on group learning, guided implementation, and extended one-on-one support focused on strengthening your finances, loan applications, and legal setup.
IRS Workshop: Tax Deposits and Payroll Tax Reporting
A virtual Small Business Tax Workshop with the Internal Revenue Service!
What are the responsibilities for filing and paying tax deposits?
In this FREE presentation, you will learn:
the federal tax deposit process
deposit requirements and penalties
how to file the following returns:
Form 941, Employers Quarterly Federal Tax Return
Form 944, Employers Annual Federal Tax Return
Form 943, Employer's Annual Tax Return for Agricultural Employees
Guest Speaker: Paul Sadler, Senior Stakeholder Liaison within the Communications and Liaison office of the Internal Revenue Service. With well-rounded expertise in conducting comprehensive audits, resolving complex tax disputes, and managing taxpayers, Paul has a proven record of providing taxpayer education and promotion of Internal Revenue Service products and services.
Smart Start
💡 Have a business idea—or just curious if entrepreneurship is right for you?
Businesses that start with a strong foundation are 89% more likely to still be open three years later—and we’ll show you what that foundation looks like.
Join our Smart Start Workshop to explore:
✅ If entrepreneurship fits your goals and lifestyle
✅ How to test and validate your idea
✅ Keys to building a brand customers trust
✅ The steps to launch if and when you’re readymers love
✅ The steps to launch with confidence
QuickBooks 101: Set Up and Start Tracking Your Business Finances
QuickBooks can make running your business easier—once you know how to use it.
In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to get started in QuickBooks and set up your system to track your income, expenses, and invoices the right way from the beginning.
You’ll learn:
How to navigate QuickBooks and choose the right version
How to connect your bank account and categorize transactions
How to create a chart of accounts tailored to your business
How to record expenses, send invoices, and run basic reports
What to do each week/month to stay on track
This session is best for small business owners who are new to QuickBooks or want a reset on how it’s set up.
This event is part of Capital Pathways, a no-cost program from the Virginia SBDC that helps small businesses get the funding they need to grow. The program is designed for very small (fewer than 10 employees), emerging, and growth-ready businesses that face challenges accessing traditional financing. It offers hands-on group learning, guided implementation, and extended one-on-one support focused on strengthening your finances, loan applications, and legal setup.
PLEASE NOTE: Capacity will be limited for this webinar as it is an interactive session. Please be mindful and register only if you will be able to attend.
Guest Speaker: Jamee Dion, QuickBooks Certified Trainer
One Star: Customer Service Training
From Bad Reviews to Raving Fans: Fix Your Customer Service Like the Top 10%
Bad reviews aren’t just embarrassing — they’re expensive. In this dynamic in-person workshop, you'll uncover where poor customer experiences are draining your business and learn how to fix them using proven, high-touch hospitality systems.
You will learn:
What One Star Really Costs
First Impressions are Sales Conversations
Consistency Builds Trust
Fix it Fast -- Customer Service Recovery Systems
and More!
One Star is designed for small business owners, managers, frontline team leads, and anyone responsible for customer experience, client service, or hospitality — including entrepreneurs aiming to build a five-star reputation and grow referrals.
Registration is limited to 15 People — reserve your seat now and start turning one-star service into five-star success
Scale Up NRV
Scale Up NRV is a one-day, in-person event designed for growth-minded business owners who are ready to take their companies to the next level. This high-energy program combines expert-led sessions, a powerful keynote, and engaging panel discussions to deliver actionable strategies for scaling sustainably, leveraging emerging technologies like AI, streamlining operations, and accessing the capital needed to expand.
Hacked Headlines: What Recent Cyber Attacks Teach Us About Small Business Security
From major ransomware incidents to attacks on critical infrastructure, cyber headlines are everywhere. But what do these threats mean for small businesses?
This webinar decodes recent high-profile breaches—like those affecting healthcare systems, government agencies, and retailers—and highlights lessons small businesses can apply to prevent similar risks.
Speaker: Quiana Gainey, Virginia SBDC Cyber Industry Expert
What to do when Distribution isn't Working
Many craft beverage producers - especially those in operation for 5+ years - rely heavily on distribution to drive volume sales and topline revenue. But a crowded marketplace, downward consumption trends, and other headwinds mean that distribution just isn't working for a lot of companies these days.
In this webinar, Virginia SBDC Craft Beverage Assistance Manager Chris Van Orden will ask Julie Rhodes of Not Your Hobby Marketing about the various struggles facing producers and the strategies they can deploy to get back on track.
Guest Speaker: Julie Rhodes, Not Your Hobby Marketing
SEO & Social Selling
Determine your business identity and founder story to confidently introduce your brand.
Note — This is an interactive workshop!
What Lenders Look For: Tips to Strengthen Your Loan Application
Getting a small business loan can feel confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. In this session, hear directly from a banking expert about what lenders really look for when reviewing loan applications.
You’ll learn:
What banks consider when deciding on a loan
What makes a strong application
How to improve your chances of getting approved
This event is part of Capital Pathways, a no-cost program from the Virginia SBDC that helps small businesses get the funding they need to grow. The program is designed for very small (fewer than 10 employees), emerging, and growth-ready businesses that face challenges accessing traditional financing. It offers hands-on group learning, guided implementation, and extended one-on-one support focused on strengthening your finances, loan applications, and legal setup.
Government Proposals: Structure, Strategy, Success
Writing a government proposal can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it becomes manageable—and even strategic. Learn the essential elements of a strong government proposal, what buyers are looking for, and how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re responding to an RFP or submitting a quote, this session will help you sharpen your skills and increase your chances of winning contracts.
Whether you're new to contracting or looking to sharpen your skills this workshop for you.
This workshop is presented in partnership with Virginia APEX Center, Southwest Virginia Community College APEX Center, the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity and the Virginia Small Business Development Center, Greater Roanoke & NRV.
SBA Loan Programs: Up to $5 million Available for Small Businesses
Small Business Administration loans can be used for a wide variety of needs including working capital, purchases of inventory and equipment, refinancing business debt, buying a business, and the purchase or construction of owner-occupied commercial real estate.
During this webinar, we will discuss the three main SBA Loan Programs - 7(a), 504 and Microloans. You will receive guidance on….
what to do before approaching a lender
what the SBA application process looks like
how to find SBA lenders
This event is part of Capital Pathways, a no-cost program from the Virginia SBDC that helps small businesses get the funding they need to grow. The program is designed for very small (fewer than 10 employees), emerging, and growth-ready businesses that face challenges accessing traditional financing. It offers hands-on group learning, guided implementation, and extended one-on-one support focused on strengthening your finances, loan applications, and legal setup.
Mobile Apps: How to Plan, Execute & Launch
Does your business need a mobile app?
In this webinar, you will learn if your small business will benefit from having a mobile app, and the steps to successfully deploy and market your app on the app stores. Areas covered include:
Market Research
App Scoping
Finding a Developer and Budget
App Business Planning
Marketing Approach
Building a Prototype
Launching an App
Promoting App
Speaker(s): Cameron Nelson, CEO of Tenzing Startup Consultants
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Franchising Too - Trends, Opportunities, and Obstacles
Which are the best franchises to invest in today, and what does it take to open a franchise in Virginia?
Whether you are able to operate a franchise full-time, or you want to run a business semi-passively while working a day job, learn more about...
how the franchise industry has changed since the pandemic
how the customers have changed
what the next big opportunities are in franchising!
We will also discuss common pitfalls to obstacles to success. You won't want to miss this!
By registering for this seminar, you grant Virginia SBDC permission to share your name and email address with the speaker.
Speaker: Heather Rosen, FranNet of Virginia and D.C.
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
SEO & Social Selling
The following will be covered during this live webinar:
Power of SEO and social media for attracting customers, including local SEO to precisely target your market.
Website optimization for lead generation. How personas, message maps, and content calendars help to make your website and social media footprint more attractive when integrated.
Social selling as an amplifier of your existing sales and marketing strategy. Learn to build an omni channel presence and customer journey for faster wins.
What your digital channel strategy needs, to be effective in terms of content, technology and investment.
How to effectively use paid media and advertising. Cost savings of optimizing your website and SEO to maximize paid media spend and ROI.
Speaker(s): Hussain Shah, Subject Matter Expert - Digital Marketing, Mason SBDC & Timm Johnson - Director, Mason SBDC
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Building A Cyber Resilient Business
Arm yourself with strategies for long-term security!
In an era marked by relentless cyber threats, building a cyber-resilient business is not just a goal—it's a necessity. This comprehensive guide explores the key components of cyber resilience, equipping business owners and leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to fortify their organizations against cyber-attacks.
From implementing robust security measures and leveraging cutting-edge tools with proactive planning and strategic investments, businesses can thrive in an increasingly digital world while safeguarding their assets, reputation, and customer trust.
Speaker(s): Quiana Gainey, Virginia SBDC Cyber Industry Expert
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Smart Start
This workshop will not be recorded, attendance is required to receive bonus materials in the mail.
This class is held virtually via Zoom. You will see the Zoom link once registration is complete. Please save the link to access the workshop. We recommend joining from your computer/laptop for the best experience.
Course Description
To meet the growing demand of our region’s start-ups, we’ve created a course to accelerate your idea into an actionable start. Businesses that start with a solid foundation of research, planning, and setup are up to 89% more likely to remain open three years later. That’s a percentage worth betting on!
What you'll explore:
- If entrepreneurship is right for you
- How to pick the perfect customers
- How to best validate your idea
- Keys to growing an iconic brand
- Steps to laying the foundation for a legitimate business
- What resources are available to you
- Determine what stage you are in and what your next steps are
Bonus Material (worth $450):
1. Entrepreneur Certificate
We’ve partnered with StartUp Virginia to provide you with a scholarship to complete a certificate in entrepreneurship. You will receive your unique scholarship code in the mail upon completion of Smart Start along with a link to get started.
2. Entrepreneur Guidebook
Our region's #1 guide for entrepreneurs that includes everything you need to start smart.
3. E-Myth Revisited book
We believe every business needs to start with growth in mind. This book outlines the steps to consider when working _on_ your business.
4. Tax Calendar
A tax calendar prepared by a tax accountant to keep track of when and what taxes are due as a business.
Cost:
$35.00 per company for up to four members of the respective company to participate
Fine Print:
The cost of this workshop is directly allocated to Greater Roanoke & NRV Small Business Development Center programming.
Refunds are not available. The cost of the workshop covers the planning, preparation, and materials that are coordinated in advance.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Building Your Business Performance Dashboard Metrics
During this workshop you will be guided through a step-by-step process of building a business performance dashboard, complete with relevant metrics, that is invaluable to meet your strategic and tactical goals and objectives. This webinar is extremely useful for early stage companies, growth, or even mature businesses! During this workshop you will learn:
What business dashboards look like
Understand why a “scorecard” is important
Become familiar with the principles that guide your 1st dashboard draft
How to get started and begin building a dashboard for your business
Decide on a group of simple but important key metrics
See what software is available, making scorecard development easier
Learn how and when to use these new business metrics with your business team
See how dashboard insights can make a positive impact on your business performance
AND... hear answers to many of your business briefing questions in real time!
Speaker: George Siragusa, Senior Business Advisor
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Combating Social Engineering Attacks
Learn strategies for mitigating escalating cybersecurity threats!
As social engineering attacks continue to evolve and escalate, businesses must arm themselves with effective defense strategies. This comprehensive resource delves into the world of social engineering, offering insights into the latest tactics used by cybercriminals to manipulate employees and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. With the right knowledge and proactive measures in place, businesses can strengthen their security posture and safeguard against the ever-growing menace of social engineering attacks.
Speaker(s): Quiana Gainey, Virginia SBDC Cyber Industry Expert
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
GovCon 101: Creating a Capabilities Statement
The Federal Government buys over $600 billion per year on goods and services, 5% of that spend is allocated for Small Business. This is a huge opportunity for firms, who qualify, to grow their business and become part of the challenging world of Government Contracting through set-aside opportunities. In order to get noticed by small business offices, you must first create a winning capability statement. This is the most importing marketing piece you will create for your business. A properly formatted capability statement will help you get noticed and differentiate you from your competition.
Key Takeaways:
Proper formatting of the statement
Information to include and not include
Differentiators, Core competencies and past performance content
You will be provided an editable template to use for your own capability statement
How to use the statement
Speaker(s): Lisa Wood, Virginia PTAC
Cost: No Fee
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
User Experience: Why It Matters for Your Small Business Website
Is your website easy to use? Can visitors find what they are looking for? Are they able to complete transactions without an issue?
Whether highlighting your expertise, facilitating sales or providing options to contact you, the user experience of your business website matters. Join Lisa D. Dance, an experienced UX Research Consultant, as she shares actionable tips on making your website easy to use without breaking the bank.
Speaker(s): Lisa Dance, Service Ease
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Success Through e-Commerce
Join us if you’re interested in pivoting more of your efforts to ONLINE SALES!
This session will cover:
The variety of websites available, the possibilities for upgrading yours to better accommodate online sales and the estimated costs to accomplish this.
The various e-commerce platforms available and how to select the best based on your specific business needs.
How to setup and manage your online storefront or service portal and how to use data and marketing to maximize returns.
A confirmation email with the Zoom login information will be sent after registration - a day before before the event - please be on the lookout for it.
Speaker(s): Cameron Nelson, CEO of Tenzing Startup Consultants
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Smart Start
This workshop will not be recorded, attendance is required to receive bonus materials in the mail.
This class is held virtually via Zoom. You will see the Zoom link once registration is complete. Please save the link to access the workshop. We recommend joining from your computer/laptop for the best experience.
Course Description
To meet the growing demand of our region’s start-ups, we’ve created a course to accelerate your idea into an actionable start. Businesses that start with a solid foundation of research, planning, and setup are up to 89% more likely to remain open three years later. That’s a percentage worth betting on!
What you'll explore:
- If entrepreneurship is right for you
- How to pick the perfect customers
- How to best validate your idea
- Keys to growing an iconic brand
- Steps to laying the foundation for a legitimate business
- What resources are available to you
- Determine what stage you are in and what your next steps are
Bonus Material (worth $450):
1. Entrepreneur Certificate
We’ve partnered with StartUp Virginia to provide you with a scholarship to complete a certificate in entrepreneurship. You will receive your unique scholarship code in the mail upon completion of Smart Start along with a link to get started.
2. Entrepreneur Guidebook
Our region's #1 guide for entrepreneurs that includes everything you need to start smart.
3. E-Myth Revisited book
We believe every business needs to start with growth in mind. This book outlines the steps to consider when working _on_ your business.
4. Tax Calendar
A tax calendar prepared by a tax accountant to keep track of when and what taxes are due as a business.
Cost:
$35.00 per company for up to four members of the respective company to participate
Fine Print:
The cost of this workshop is directly allocated to Greater Roanoke & NRV Small Business Development Center programming.
Refunds are not available. The cost of the workshop covers the planning, preparation, and materials that are coordinated in advance.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Marketing 101
Refresh your knowledge to effectively market your goods and/or services! This live webinar (via Zoom) will cover the following marketing essentials:
How to choose your target group(s)
How to communicate with your target(s)
Market Definition
Market Segmentation
Competitive Analysis
Company Branding
Online (SEO) and Offline Marketing
Speaker(s): Bernard Ferret, Senior Business Counselor, Mason SBDC
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
First Thursdays with the SBA: Crowdfunding
Grab your lunch and join us the first Thursday of each month to learn more about SBA programs and network with other small business owners.
Topic: Crowdfunding
Are traditional funding sources not a fit for your business? Consider crowdfunding. Join us as we discuss how crowdfunding works, why it may work for you, and tips and tricks on how to be a successful crowd funder. Finding revenue is one of the challenges for a project/idea/business. There are many options to help fund it. One option that may be the stepping stone to success is crowdfunding. Come in and learn if this is a possible funding stream for your future success. Maximized to the fullest use can mean more than money.
Key Takeaways:
What is crowdfunding?
How can crowdfunding help you finance your business?
Mistakes to avoid in a crowdfunding campaign.
Speaker(s): Martin Short, Lead Economic Development Specialist & Public Information Officer
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Payment Processing
This one-hour webinar is designed for small business owners to learn more about credit card optimization, including reducing fees on credit cards and gifts cards.
Learning Outcomes:
Choosing a Processor - What to look for when picking a company to process credit cards.
Visa/MC Interchange - Find out how the processors get charged and how it affects you.
Gift Card Programs - Will setting up a gift card program for your business help? If so, learn how to set one up.
Cash Discounting - Find out how to pass the fees to the cardholder in a way that doesn't break Visa/MC compliance.
By registering for this seminar, you grant the SBDC permission to share your contact information with the speaker.
Speaker(s): Ed Hopper is the CEO of Altor Processing Systems
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
National Small Business Week Virtual Summit
As part of the National Small Business Week (NSBW), the U.S. Small Business Administration and SCORE will cohost the NSBW Virtual Summit that includes a variety of educational webinars, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms and expert business advice from SCORE mentors.
The 2-day event is free to attend, but registration is required to access all the value the virtual event has to offer:
Action-driven content that can be applied to your business immediately.
Expert business advice to help you navigate your business journey.
Downloadable business resources to collect for future use.
Networking opportunities to connect with business owners from across the country.
Fee: No Cost
Dates: Tuesday, April 30 + Wednesday, May 1
Time: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST
** Pre-Registration Required **
Financial FriYAY
We’re back for Financial FriYAYs to celebrate #financialliteracymonth in April. Join us LIVE on Facebook every Friday at noon to hear from local experts on topics that matter to you and your business:
-Retirement Planning for you and your employees
-Bookkeeping best practices
-Understanding financial statements
-Financing growth
Bring your lunch, share this with a friend, and join us on Fridays in April —> bring your questions too!
Navigating Cybersecurity Compliance
A helpful cybersecurity guide for small business owners!
In today's digital landscape, small businesses face an increasing number of cybersecurity threats. Navigating cybersecurity compliance can be daunting, especially for those with limited resources and expertise. This comprehensive guide provides small business owners with practical insights and actionable steps to effectively manage cybersecurity risks and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
Whether you're a startup or an established small business, staying ahead of cybersecurity challenges is essential for protecting sensitive data, maintaining customer trust, and securing long-term success.
Speaker: Quiana Gainey, Virginia SBDC Cyber Industry Expert
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Meet the Buyers Extravaganza
Meet the Buyers Extravaganza is a government contracting event where businesses can advance their contracting knowledge, connect with other business owners, and network directly with government representatives and buyers.
Extravaganza Outcomes:
Opportunity to learn from and engage with procurement, purchasing, prime and subcontractors.
A no-schedule necessary networking portion where you can speak with as many agencies as you'd like.
Start new agency/prime relationships or advance existing ones.
We Welcome:
Business owners who are new to the government market
Business owners who are experienced government contractors
Service providers seeking to work with small businesses
Primes and agencies seeking small business partners
We encourage people in all stages of their government contracting journey to attend as everyone can learn something new, make important connections, and promote their business in a low-stakes environment.
What to Bring:
Multiple copies of your capability statement
Plenty of business cards.
Have a well-written elevator pitch ready to go is handy as well.
Event Schedule:
8:00 AM — Event Registration and Networking
8:30 AM — Welcome + Opening Remarks
8:45 AM — Unlocking Procurement Potential: Strategies from Government Procurement Specialists - Panel of Government Representatives including:
City of Roanoke Procurement Department
Roanoke City Public Schools Procurement
Roanoke Valley Resource Authority
Town of Vinton
Virginia Tech Procurement
9:45 AM — Navigating the Government Contracting Landscape: Insights from Successful Business Owners — panel of Business Owners including:
Baraka Kasongo, Volatia
Jennifer Eddy, Eddy Alexander
Lisa Sink, Ride Source
Nadean Carson, Oya Construction
10:30 AM — Go Connect — Meet the Buyers — A no-schedule necessary networking portion where you can speak with as many agencies as you'd like. Buyers and Procurement Specialists from the following agencies will be on site:
City of Roanoke Procurement Department
City of Roanoke General Services Department
Roanoke City Public Schools Procurement
Roanoke Valley Resource Authority
Town of Vinton
Valley Metro Procurement
Virginia Community College Shared Services Center Procurement
Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity
Virginia Tech Procurement
11:30 AM — Meet the Buyers Extravaganza concludes
Registration Fees:
Business Owners - $15.00 per person to attend. Coffee, water and light refreshments are included with the registration. Register through the link below.
Local, State, Federal Government Agencies - $30.00 per agency. The registration fee includes registration for two people from the same agency, a 20”x6’ table to share information about your agency before and during the vendor meet + greet portion of the event, coffee, water and light refreshments. The registration fee helps support advising and training for small businesses in our region. Contact Heather Fay, hfay@roanokesmallbusiness.org or 540-632-1174 to learn more and register.
Refunds are not available. The registration fee for the event covers the planning, preparation, and materials that are coordinated in advance.
Special thank you to the Town of Vinton for providing the Vinton War Memorial for the Meet the Buyers Extravaganza!
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight. Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Using Technology in Your Business Workshop for Business Located In Franklin Co., Towns of Rocky Mount, and Boones Mill
Join us for a live on person interactive workshop where will delve into the world of ChatGPT and learn how to leverage its capabilities to build dynamic and engaging conversational experiences.
Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical exercises, you will gain a deep understanding of the:
underlying concepts
techniques
best practices for effectively training and fine-tuning ChatGPT models
and more!
Speaker(s): Jeff Robertson, Greater Roanoke and NRV Small Business Development Center
Cost: No Fee
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Intro to State Government Contracting with SBSD
Each year, the State buys goods and services totaling more than $7 billion – learn how your company can be a part of that!
This webinar is designed to educate small, woman and/or minority business owners about opportunities to sell their goods and services to the Commonwealth of Virginia and many local governments.
The workshop will provide information about the Virginia procurement process (the eVA system) and the benefits of SWaM certification.
Speaker: Angela Barber, Business Services Manager, Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity, Eastern VA Region
Fee: No Cost
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Financial FriYAY
We’re back for Financial FriYAYs to celebrate #financialliteracymonth in April. Join us LIVE on Facebook every Friday at noon to hear from local experts on topics that matter to you and your business:
-Retirement Planning for you and your employees
-Bookkeeping best practices
-Understanding financial statements
-Financing growth
Bring your lunch, share this with a friend, and join us on Fridays in April —> bring your questions too!
Grow Your Business with Digital Marketing
Businesses need to understand the basics of digital marketing now more than ever, because digital marketing creates growth.
Learn about the basics of digital marketing, including:
Social Media
Email Marketing
Paid Ads
SEO
Affiliate Marketing
How to use analytics to measure your success
Fee: No Cost
Speaker: Cameron Nelson
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight.
Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Financial FriYAY
We’re back for Financial FriYAYs to celebrate #financialliteracymonth in April. Join us LIVE on Facebook every Friday at noon to hear from local experts on topics that matter to you and your business:
-Retirement Planning for you and your employees
-Bookkeeping best practices
-Understanding financial statements
-Financing growth
Bring your lunch, share this with a friend, and join us on Fridays in April —> bring your questions too!
How to Pitch
Join us for a transformative workshop that will empower you to pitch your business or startup idea with confidence and finesse, whether you are pitching in a competition, partners, clients or investors.
Our virtual workshop is designed specifically for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to learn "How to Pitch"! Don't miss this opportunity to take your entrepreneurial journey to new heights.
Attendees will:
Discover the strategies and techniques you need to craft compelling pitches.
Gain a solid understanding of the key components of a successful pitch. -Learn how to tailor your pitch to different audiences.
Gain an understanding of the importance of powerful storytelling techniques to make your pitch memorable and persuasive.
Explore effective visual aids and presentation tools tailored to the needs of small businesses and startups.
Tips to overcome common pitching challenges and objections encountered by small business owners and entrepreneurs, and more!
Fee: No Cost
Speaker(s): Tom Tanner, Regional Lead Advisor
Fine Print:
Our workshops, events, and programs are designed with a small business owner in mind. Actionable, sharing of ideas, and takeaways to keep things straight. Pre-registration is required to receive the instructions to attend the workshop.
The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a workshop/event/program for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur we will use the email you provided to contact you. Pre-registration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not pre-registered we will not be able to contact you.
All programs of the Virginia SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
ON DEMAND COURSES
