Weathering the Storm: Emergency Preparedness for Maryland Business Owners

Date: 9/10/2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 9/9/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Disaster Planning/Recovery, Risk Management
Description:

The Maryland SBDC, in partnership with the Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management, invites small business owners across the state to a free virtual Zoom training: “Weathering the Storm: Preparing for Severe Weather, Tornadoes, and Tropical Cyclones.” This session is specially designed to help Maryland entrepreneurs protect their businesses, employees, and operations before, during, and after extreme weather events. You’ll gain critical insights on: -The role of Emergency Management in disaster response -Business-focused strategies for heat hazards, floods, tornadoes, and tropical storms -Understanding and preparing for severe thunderstorms -Disaster planning tailored for small businesses -How to get involved in your local emergency preparedness network -An opportunity to share your own experiences and learn from peers Who Should Attend: Small business owners, entrepreneurs, and organizational leaders looking to enhance their business resilience and continuity planning. Presenter, James A. Krempel, Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Empowering women to Elevate their business and Amplify their success.

A LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE TO EMPOWER, AMPLIFY AND ELEVATE THE GREATER ROCKVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES!

This event brings together female entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and professionals for a day of networking, learning, and growth. With expert-led panels and actionable strategies, you'll gain valuable insights on building a strong foundation, scaling your business, and succeeding in today’s marketplace. Connect with like-minded women and unlock your full business potential!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM Registration & Breakfast 
Enjoy a plated breakfast while networking with fellow attendees.
Opening Remarks: Rockville Mayor, Monique Ashton

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM Panel 1: Building a Strong Foundation

Moderator: Jillian Bernstein, The Wellness Extension
Panelists:
Lori McConnaughey, First National Bank of PA
Ellen Tillman, Ellen Tillman & Company
Katie Hanna, Details Matter Bookkeeping
Anita Segreti, Capital Point Insurance
Adena Santiago, AMSS Legal Consulting

This panel will discuss the essential elements of building a strong foundation for your business, covering topics like finance, insurance, and legal considerations. Whether you're just starting or looking to solidify your business's framework, this session provides the expert insights you need to grow confidently.

9:30 AM - 9:45 AM Short Break

9:45 AM – 10:45 AM Panel 2: Entrepreneurship

Moderator: Pam Clark, Clark Communications
Panelists:
Cindy Feldman, Progressions
Claudia Tsas, Kharis Lavender Fields
Margarita Womack, Latin Goodness Foods
Kathy Voss, Little Miner Taco
Denise Richards, Dill Dinkers

Entrepreneurship is a journey of resilience, creativity, and passion. Join us as our panelists share their personal stories of starting and growing successful businesses, the challenges they faced, and how they navigated the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Gain actionable advice to fuel your entrepreneurial spirit
and take your business to the next level.

10:45 AM – 11:45 AM Panel 3: Doing It All, Successfully

Moderator: Visa Shanmugam, Aire-Master of Central Maryland
Panelists:
Lacy Fields, Therapeutique Salon Spa
Patricia Dubroof, Assisting Hands Home Healthcare
Becky Briggs, Our Gift Biz

Running a business while balancing personal life can feel overwhelming, but it's possible to do it all and do it successfully. This panel features seasoned professionals who have mastered the art of managing multiple responsibilities without compromising quality. Learn their tips and strategies for staying organized, setting
priorities, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

11:45 AM – 12:00 PM Closing Remarks & Thank You

A brief recap of the conference highlights and a thank you to all participants, sponsors, and speakers.
Attendees will be encouraged to stay connected and continue the conversation.

DOWNLOAD THE FLYER...
 

ALSO OFFERING Discounted Headshots at the Rockville Chamber of Commerce Women's Leadership Conference!

Erica Land is excited to offer professional headshots at a special discounted rate of $200 per person exclusively for attendees of the Rockville Chamber of Commerce women's leadership conference. This includes one fully retouched image, with additional images available for purchase.

Spots are limited and must be reserved one week in advance (by 9/3/25) — payment is required at the time of booking.

Minimum of 10 sign-ups required for the on-site event session to take place.

If fewer than 10 people register, your session will still be honored and scheduled at Erica's studio in Rockville at a mutually convenient time.

To sign up, please contact Erica directly through this link:

https://www.ericalandphotography.com/contact

Or reach out via:

erica@ericalandphotography.com

301-520-2470

Looking forward to capturing your best professional look!

— Erica Land, Esq

Erica Land Photography

Save Time with AI – How to Create Videos, Emails, Social Posts and More Faster

Live Event (online)

Date & Time: September 9, 2025, 1:00pm EDT

Cost: $15.00

Duration: 60 minutes

Language: English

About the event

Creating marketing content takes time, but what if you could do it faster, smarter and without losing your unique brand identity? In this webinar, you’ll learn how to use AI tools to streamline your marketing strategy and create content that works across every channel.

In this webinar, our expert presenter will show you how to combine your expertise with AI-powered tools to generate fresh ideas, write compelling copy, and boost visibility with AI SEO. You’ll also learn how to quickly repurpose your content for blogs, social media, email and video, helping you reach more people with less effort. Finally, you’ll walk away with insider tips for refining AI-generated material so it stays professional, authentic and true to your brand.

What You’ll Learn:

• AI-assisted content planning and calendar creation

• Tools for generating high-converting headlines and copy

• Strategies for maintaining brand consistency with AI

• Content repurposing techniques that multiply your efforts

• Quality control methods to ensure professional results

SCORE National Webinars - Securing Our Future Together

For almost 20 years, SCORE has proudly provided free webinars to America's entrepreneurs, thanks to federal funding that has allowed us to serve millions of small business owners. As we face the proposed elimination of our federal grant, we're transitioning our webinar program to a fee-based model to ensure SCORE can continue delivering the high-quality business education you depend on.

Tell Congress: Protect SCORE’s Funding

SCORE’s funding is vital for small businesses in every state. Congress needs to hear from you why securing funding for FY26 is critical. Your voice matters—help us continue to support entrepreneurs nationwide.

The Book Of Business: How To Gain Financial Clarity As A Business Owner

Date: 9/9/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 9/8/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Accounting/Budget, Cash Flow Management, Managing a Business, Tax Planning
Description:

When done correctly, your business finances stop being a caution sign — and become a tool for clarity. With the right structure, your numbers can offer the insight you need to make confident, informed decisions as a business owner. After attending this event, you'll know: -How to set up a simple, effective bookkeeping system -Best practices for tracking income and expenses -Tips for staying organized throughout the year -How to prepare for tax season without the panic Presenter, Anthony Darand; AD Bookkeeping Solutions LLC

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Transform Your LinkedIn Presence Today: From Profile to Pipeline

Date: 9/4/2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 9/3/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Marketing/Sales, Social Media
Description:

Are you making the most of your LinkedIn profile, or is it just another digital resume? In today’s competitive market, your prospects don’t care about what you’ve done—they care about what you can do for them. This workshop will show you how to transform your LinkedIn profile into a powerful tool that attracts prospects, communicates your value, and converts connections into opportunities. Learn practical strategies to position yourself as a trusted problem-solver, build credibility, and create a profile that works for you 24/7. 4 Key Takeaways for Participants: 1. Create a Powerful First Impression: Develop a compelling headline and summary that immediately communicate your unique value proposition and how you solve business problems. 2. Establish Social Proof and Authority: Learn how to strategically gather endorsements, testimonials, and recommendations to enhance trust and credibility. 3. Optimize Your Profile for Your Audience: Showcase your accomplishments and experiences in ways that align with your target audience's needs and priorities. 4. Engage and Expand Your Network: Master the art of seeking and securing endorsements, growing your connections, and engaging with prospects in a meaningful way, Presenter, Thomas Ellis; Chief Sales Coach, EWC Consultants

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Location: Online

About this event

• Event lasts 45 minutes

What You Will Learn in This Free Training:

• A Proven Framework to Identify the 9 Barriers Keeping Small Business Owners Stuck and How to Break Through Each One

• The Exact Planning & Focus System to Stop Wasting Time and Start Doing What Actually Moves the Needle

• How to Eliminate Overwhelm and Finally Get Clear on Your 90-Day Plan for Real, Measurable Progress

• Why So Many Business Owners Get Stuck in Procrastination and How to Replace Doubt with Action & Momentum

• How to Surround Yourself with the Right People So You Never Feel Isolated, Stuck, or Second-Guessing Again

** Plus Bonus Free Business Tools (that our clients use) to help you implement what you learn **

Date: 8/28/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/27/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Marketing/Sales
Description:

Learn affordable ways to promote your business using video, from DIY production tips to choosing the right platforms for distribution. Presenter, Pieter Bickford, HighRock

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 8/28/2025
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/27/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Marketing/Sales, Social Media
Description:

August 28, 11am Stand Out On Social Designed for entrepreneurs, experts, and thought leaders ready to elevate their online presence, this session walks you through the core strategies to clarify your message, create magnetic content, and position yourself as the go-to in your industry. You’ll learn how to show up consistently, confidently, and strategically—so your content connects, converts, and makes you unforgettable. Presenter, Myown Holmes, Socially Polished

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 8/28/2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Status: Open - 19 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 8/27/2025 3:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Darren M. Peyton

Training Topics: Business Start-up/Preplanning
Description:

Ready, Set, Go is designed for small businesses in the planning phase of building a company. Participants will learn the “nuts & bolts” of becoming an entrepreneur, from business planning to legal business entity formation. Additional information is shared with the participant on the SBDC, its services, what one can expect when entering the business world, the business plan, finance management, funding sources, marketing…a guide to beginning a successful future in a business world.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by credit or debit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event.

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Why Every Small Business Needs a Retirement Plan – And How to Choose the Right One

Date: 8/26/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/25/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Human Resources
Description:

Every small business owner needs a retirement plan — not just for their employees, but for their own financial security. Relying solely on your business to fund retirement is risky since many businesses don’t sell when or for how much owners expect. Setting up a retirement plan helps diversify your wealth, offers valuable tax benefits, and can even help attract and retain top talent. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or growing your team, there’s a plan that fits — from SEP IRAs to Solo 401(k)s to Traditional 401(k)s. The key is to start early and choose the right plan for your business goals. Presenter, Chris Halcomb; Heritage Financial Advisors

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Backup and Recovery Plans For Your Business

Date: 8/26/2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/25/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Cybersecurity Assistance, Risk Management
Description:

Welcome to the SBDC Training: Backup and Recovery Plans As a participant in this essential training, you will gain a clear understanding of how to protect critical data and ensure business continuity in the face of unexpected events. The session will focus on three key areas: -Why Regular Data Backups Matter You’ll learn the importance of backing up data on a consistent schedule to prevent loss from accidents, cyber threats, or system failures. We’ll discuss what data to back up and how often to do it. -How to Store Backups Securely and Offsite The training will cover best practices for keeping backup files safe—such as using encryption and storing them in secure, offsite or cloud-based locations—to ensure they remain accessible and protected even during local emergencies. -Testing Your Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Plans You’ll explore how to regularly test your recovery procedures so that, when needed, systems can be restored quickly and efficiently. We’ll also discuss how planning ahead keeps services running with minimal interruption. By the end of this session, you'll be better equipped to support data protection goals and respond confidently to potential disruptions. This training is a vital step in safeguarding your business operations and the communities you serve. Presenter, Jack Shaffer, Advantage Technology

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

The Side Hustle: How to Generate Extra Income

Date: 8/25/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/24/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Business Start-up/Preplanning
Description:

The Art of the Side Hustle: How to create a business and generate extra income without giving up your Day job, your family or your life! If you’re trying to make a big change or just need some extra cash, a hustle can help you build a foundation to move on to something else. If you love your day job, that’s great too—the hustle will provide a creative outlet and a backup plan. When you have more than one source of income, you are no longer dependent on a single employer. You will have much greater opportunity. You will learn new skills. Oh, and you’ll also have … more money. When you have more than one paycheck arriving every month, you feel better about yourself. You look to the future differently, and you consider a wider set of options as you make decisions. It’s also fun. Starting a side hustle is like “playing entrepreneurially” without making a huge commitment. This class shows attendees how to maintain work/life balance, find a niche, test feasibility, and create a simple business plan and strategy, while preventing the major pitfalls associated with starting a new venture on your own. The course will also assist with the creation of simple financial projections to ensure your side hustle is worth your time. Presenter, Brandon Mason, SBDC

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Sunday, August 24

Small Business Summer: Leadership & Management Through MBTI

• ALL AGES

A women-led summer workshop series empowering small business owners with skills, strategies, and support to grow and thrive.

By The Small Business Collection

49 followers

Follow

Date and time

Sunday, August 24 · 11am - 2pm EDT

Location

9201 Corporate Blvd #470

9201 Corporate Boulevard #470 Rockville, MD 20850

Get directions

Cost: $28.52

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event.

About this event

• Event lasts 3 hours

• ALL AGES

• Free venue parking

Join our women-led summer workshop series designed to empower small business owners with the skills, strategies, and support they need to thrive. Through hands-on sessions, expert guidance, and a collaborative community, you’ll gain practical insights to grow and sustain your business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this series will provide the tools and connections to help you succeed.

The Office of Procurement invites you to our monthly Online Open House, held every 3rd Wednesday from 10:00am - 11:00am.

Learn about the latest updates from the Office of Procurement. This is an interactive event. Bring your questions for the procurement team!

Register in advance for this meeting:
us02web.zoom.us…

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
 

Online Location: NEW! Meeting moved to Zoom

Contact Name: Bethany Manimbo

Contact Phone: 240-777-9941

Contact Email: bethany.manimbo@montgomerycountymd.gov

Cost: free

Link: us02web.zoom.us…

How To Increase Employee Engagement Through Internal Communication

Date: 8/19/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/18/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Human Resources
Description:

Surge Communication With Customers while learning How To Increase Employee Engagement and Educate Through Better Internal Communication! Many times, companies that communicate well with their customers and partners have challenges doing the same with employees. Additionally, there are a lot of challenges posed by communicating HR and financial-related information with your employees. This session will explore internal communications best practices for small businesses. What You’ll Learn: -Common mistakes made in internal communications -Best practices to ensure your communications to employees and contractors are as effective as possible -What types of communications from which your employees most benefit Presenter, Steve Blair, President, Lyceum Insurance Services

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 8/18/2025
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/17/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Technology
Description:

Use AI as a vehicle to drive results in your business! This workshop shows small business owners how to use the THINK methodology to eliminate time-consuming manual work through a proven approach: task automation, voice-to-text workflows, and strategic prompting. Learn to: -Apply THINK to identify your biggest manual work drains -Create AI prompts that handle routine tasks -Get three examples of how to apply AI in your work (AI Prompt, Deep Research, and AI Agent) No coding required. Bring your most time-consuming process and leave with three different AI solutions you can implement immediately. Perfect for business owners ready to reclaim hours every week and focus on what matters most. Presenter, Marvin Harris; Compound Leverage

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 8/14/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/13/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Marketing/Sales
Description:

If you’re an entrepreneur who wants to share your work — but cringes every time you try to “sell” online — this is for you. Most marketing advice turns you into a megaphone shouting “Look at me!” But what your audience really needs… is a mirror that helps them feel seen. Join this training to discover how to create content that doesn’t just “convert,” but connects — deeply, honestly, and in a way that builds trust before the sale ever happens. You’ll learn: -Why storytelling outperforms selling for soul-led businesses -The “Empathy First, Offer Later” content approach that never feels pushy -How to use soft CTAs that invite curiosity instead of triggering resistance -Real examples of quiet, authentic posts that led to full programs — without hype Plus, you’ll get our Content-to-Conversation Checklist to start using right away. If you’ve ever said “I hate marketing myself” — this class will change how you see it. Presenter, Antonio Guerrero; Systematic Business Marketing

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Introduction to Proposal Writing (Level 1)

Date: 8/14/2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/14/2025 12:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: MD APEX TEAM (301) 405-6550

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Government Contracting, Government Industrial Base (GIB) Readiness, Selling to Government
Description:
 

You can’t win a government contract without writing a winning proposal!

This class will cover the basic proposal writing process. Attendees of this course will learn how to:

• Review the resources for identifying opportunities to bid, the bid-no-bid process
  

• Provide descriptions of the various proposal sections and how to respond to each (Executive Summary, Technical Approach/Program Design, Management Plan, Resumes, Past Performance).
  

• Additionally, we will discuss the government proposal evaluation criteria.

 Instructor

Akiesha M. Foster is the founder of KeyToLife Professional Services LLC. A consulting company that mainly focuses on educating and training small businesses on how to do business in the Business-to-Government (B2G) marketplace.  Akiesha’s articles and YouTube Channel on government contracting have helped many small businesses get started. Akiesha has over 20 years of experience working with the Department of Defense (DoD). She is a former Maryland Apex Accelerator Procurement Specialist and has counseled over 250 clients on doing business with the government. 

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: For fee-based classes - Payment of seminar fees may be made by credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event.

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is canceled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 8/13/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/12/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Human Resources, Managing a Business
Description:

Join this presentation to understand the difficulties of retirement planning for small business owners, succession planning in small businesses, and insurance as a protection against the loss of key members of your organization. The session will allow for a Q&A segment. Presenter, Sam Eddins; Financial Planner, Mid-Atlantic Financial Group

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 8/13/2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 8/12/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Cash Flow Management
Description:

Many small business owners struggle with cash flow management, leading to inconsistent pay and financial stress. This 90-minute workshop introduces a practical, structured approach to managing business finances, ensuring entrepreneurs pay themselves first while maintaining healthy cash reserves. Attendees will learn proven strategies to allocate revenue effectively, avoid cash crunches, and create a financial system that supports both business growth and personal financial stability. Presenter, Bev Stitely, Saunders Tax & Accounting

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date/Time: 

Session#1 - Jump Start Your Business 8/12/2025 - 4:00 PM- 6:00 PM (EDT)

Session #2 - Become Certified And Do Business With The State 8/13/2025 - 4:00 PM- 6:00 PM (EDT)

Session #3 - Build Credit/Access to Capital-Biz Planning 8/14/2025 - 4:00 PM- 6:00 PM (EDT)

Registration Deadline:  8/12/2025 3:00 PM (EDT)

Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Aldo Barillas

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Accounting/Budget, Business Plan, Business Start-up/Preplanning, Credit Counseling
Description:

Are you ready to Jump Start your business? This No Cost series of virtual workshops are for those who are interested in starting their first business but want to find out more information on what to expect before they begin their first business. Many aspiring entrepreneurs are waiting for the right time to start. The best time to start is NOW. In this multi-day-training session, MD SBDC will cover: Our experienced business consultants and Subject Matter Experts will share with you what you’ll need to know of the benefits and drawbacks that come with the life of an entrepreneur. This series will run August 12-14, 2025, with a bonus lab for assistance with your county SBDC Consultants to help with starting your business venture and with registering your business. August 12, 2025-Jump Start Your Business August 13, 2025-How to Become Certified and Do Business with the State of Maryland August 14, 2025-Building Business Credit, Access to Capital and How to Write a Business Plan

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 7/31/2025
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 7/30/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: $25.00 Registration Policies

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Marketing/Sales
Description:

Your brand is more than just a logo—it’s the foundation of how your business is perceived, builds trust, and attracts loyal customers. In this workshop, you’ll learn essential marketing and branding strategies to create a strong, recognizable brand and effectively market your business. What You’ll Learn: -The Importance of Branding – Why a clear brand identity matters and how to create one. -Defining Your Target Market – Understanding your ideal customers and how to reach them. -Building a Strong Brand – Creating a mission, vision, values, and brand voice. -Marketing Your Brand – Social media, email marketing, networking, and digital tools to expand your reach. -Effective Content & Design Tools – Using Canva, ChatGPT, Scheduling tooks, and more to streamline content creation. -Understanding Competitive Advantage – How to stand out in the marketplace and win customers. By the end of this session, you’ll have a clear roadmap to build a brand that resonates with your audience and a marketing strategy to attract and retain customers. Presenter, Candace Pruett, Maryland SBDC COST: $25 *No refunds will be given; however, the fee may be applied to another training.

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training. **Registration is a two-step process. First you must register and secondly, you make payment.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 7/31/2025
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 7/30/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Technology
Description:

Take a journey to create a roadmap for putting your best foot forward on the web. Learn how to get started, the road bumps to avoid, and how to navigate being found on the World Wide Web. Do Domain Registrar, site hierarchy, brand identity, mobile-first responsiveness, CMS, HTML5, SSL, SEO, UX, and DM mean anything to you? They will after we've taken this one-hour webinar journey together! Great session for those in the beginning states of creating their business websites! Presenter, Theresa Stacy-Ryan President of tmsr Design Delivery, LLC.

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 7/30/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 7/29/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Cybersecurity Assistance
Description:

In this essential training for business owners and individuals, Jack Shaffer of Advantage Technology explores the dual nature of Artificial Intelligence (LLM's), highlighting their transformative benefits in automation, decision-making, and cybersecurity while exposing the risks they pose when exploited by malicious actors. This presentation will examine how AI enhances productivity but also enables cybercriminals to craft convincing phishing attacks, deepfake content, and network breaches. Attendees will gain insights into both the advantages and security risks of AI, along with strategies to protect against AI-driven threats, ensuring they can leverage its power responsibly while staying vigilant against emerging dangers. Presenter, Jack Shaffer; Advantage Technology

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date: 7/29/2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Registration Deadline: 7/28/2025 4:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Social Media
Description:

So many professionals are missing a great opportunity to increase their revenues by not using the #1 Social Media tool for Entrepreneurs, Business Owners, Sales Professionals, IT Professionals, and many other professions. In this presentation you will learn how to use LinkedIn 30 minute per day so you too can reap the many rewards this phenomenal social selling tool has to offer. Presenter, Thomas Ellis Chief Sales Coach EWC Consultants

Instructions: A log-on link will be sent to registrants the day/evening prior to the training.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by check, money order or credit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event. You may receive special payment instructions by email once you register to the event

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Date & Time: July 24, 2025, 1:00pm EDT

Cost: $0.00

Duration: 90 minutes

About the event

Social media is a powerful tool that influences how people connect, support causes, and make purchasing decisions. In this session, you'll learn how to use social media to drive awareness, grow your following, and turn engagement into action. 

Whether you're just getting started or looking to fine-tune your approach, our expert presenter will share the core elements you'll need to create a successful social media strategy. You'll discover how to create a simple but effective social media plan that will help you get your audience's attention, build audience connections and maximize your business reach.

Key Takeaways:

• How to hook your audience's attention: Learn why 45% of shoppers turn to social media for inspiration and how to use this in your strategy.

• Build Connections: Learn why 20% of consumers are more likely to buy from brands they can communicate with on social media.

• Simplify Your Strategy: Master the essentials of social media success, including the 15-minute social media plan and tips for getting started with paid ads.

• Maximize Your Reach: Claim your name across all channels, pick a primary platform to focus on, and tailor your posts for each channel to expand your impact.

• Engage for Growth: Use social media to increase awareness, provide top-notch customer service, and inspire your audience to take action.

• Turn followers into customers with engagement techniques that drive real business results

Ready, Set, Go (virtual)

Date: 7/24/2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Status: Open - 30 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 7/23/2025 3:00 PM (EDT)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Darren M. Peyton

Training Topics: Business Start-up/Preplanning
Description:

Ready, Set, Go is designed for small businesses in the planning phase of building a company. Participants will learn the “nuts & bolts” of becoming an entrepreneur, from business planning to legal business entity formation. Additional information is shared with the participant on the SBDC, its services, what one can expect when entering the business world, the business plan, finance management, funding sources, marketing…a guide to beginning a successful future in a business world.

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of seminar fees may be made by credit or debit card. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event.

Refund Policy: If you wish to request a refund, please contact the conference organizer listed above to discuss. You may also elect to send a substitute in your place. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.

Special Accommodations: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting the event organizer listed above. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.

Details

Date: July 23, 2025

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Series: MWBC x SBA

Event Categories: Resources, Webinar

Venue: Virtual

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.

Click the REGISTER button above to complete your registration.

Description:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful technology that can help simplify business tasks and create new opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs – but knowing how to use it may seem out of reach. Developed with input from experts at Google, this workshop will explain the basics of AI and how AI-powered tools by Google can help small businesses be more efficient, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth.

Online Location: Google

Contact Name: Ken White

Contact Email: ken.white@marylandbcc.org

Cost: Free

Link: mbcc-growbiz-ai.eventbrite.com