2026 Hottest Business Ideas, Trends & Markets

Live Event (online)

Date & Time: January 29, 2026, 1:00pm EST

Cost: $0.00

Duration: 1 Hour

Language: English

Register Now

About the event

Are you planning to start a business in 2026 or expand your current company? Don't get left behind! Understanding the latest business trends, ideas, and markets is essential to staying competitive.

In this webinar, you will explore the latest business trends, startup ideas, and shifting consumer behaviors. Our expert presenter will share practical insights on how small businesses can adapt, innovate, and position their products and services to meet the needs of today's and tomorrow's customers.

You will learn about:

• America's ever-changing demographics.

• How Gen Z has established itself as a powerful consumer force

• The triggers that entice consumers to buy

• Recession-proof business concepts

• Hottest retail concepts

• Best ways to reach today's customers

Register for this free session to receive an exclusive $20 discount code for our upcoming Getting Started with Retail Course.

New Year, New Message: Plan Your Marketing for 2026

Date: 1/28/2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/27/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

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

Start the year with clarity. Learn how to set achievable marketing goals, refresh your message, and focus on what matters most to your audience-your business clients and customers! Presenter, Pieter Bickford, HighRock

Instructions: The log-on information will be included in the confirmation email you receive once you have registered.

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.

Finding High-Value SAM.gov Opportunities with Digital Employees

Date: 1/28/2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/27/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

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

Are you spending hours manually searching SAM.gov for proposals? Learn to find and score opportunities in a fraction of the time by creating a Digital Employee. We'll build "Sarah," your pipeline assistant, using THINK, the operating system for building digital employees. Have Sarah brief you and discover how to set up monitoring, track deadlines, and decide which bids to pursue. Presenter, Marvin Harris; Compound Leverage

Instructions: The log-on link will be included in the registration confirmation email once you have registered.

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 Resilient Business Series: Protect, Adapt, & Evolve to Grow Profits

Date: 1/27/2026
Registration Deadline: 1/26/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Managing a Business, Risk Management
Description:

Is Your Business Ready for the Next Challenge? Running a business means facing challenges and change at every turn. This series shows you how to protect what you’ve built, adapt with confidence, and evolve to keep profits growing. Each session gives you simple, practical steps to strengthen your business and reduce stress, So your business can thrive, not just survive. Presenter, Erin Pelicano Cauble; Founder | The Venture Project; Business Resilience Strategist

Instructions: The log-on information will be included upon registration in your registration confirmation email.

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.

Be Bankable: The Truth About Building Business Credit While Reducing Personal Risk

Date: 1/27/2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/26/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Business Financing, Credit Counseling
Description:

Would you like to learn how to become bankable and be much more attractive to lenders and issuers of credit while simultaneously protecting your personal credit and assets? Join us for our educational webinar, Be Bankable: The Truth About Building Business Credit While Reducing Personal Risk, to learn about building true business credit through completing the necessary four legs to the bankable table! Become more educated on the fundamentals of business credit, learn how best to grow and develop your business credit profile and score, and how business credit can be leveraged to your advantage. Learn how to: -Establish and increase business credibility and business fundability -Always have access to business capital when you need it -Never be denied for business capital -Never place your personal credit or family assets at risk -Reduce the need for personal credit inquiries or guarantees -Acquire business credit limits 10x-100x versus personal credit limits -Untangle business credit and personal credit Presenter, Geoff Suval, President & Managing Director Xceleran Business Funding Solutions, Inc.

Instructions: Log-on links are included in the registration confirmation email once you register.

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: 1/27/2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/27/2026 11:00 AM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: MDAPEX Team (301) 405-6550

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: DoD Mentor-Protégé Program Information, Government Contracting, Government Industrial Base (GIB) Readiness, SBA Mentor-Protégé Program Information, Selling to Government
Description:
 

Brought to you in partnership with

In this 1 hour virtual class, you will learn the ins and outs of the popular SBA and DOD Mentor Protégé Programs and get answers to these, and many more, burning questions:

• What are the SBA’s and DOD's Mentor/Protégé Program (MPP)?
  

• What are the benefits for small businesses of participating in MPP?
  

• Does my business qualify? 
  

• If I form a joint venture under the MPP will my business still be considered small?

Speakers

Richard Arnholt, Member at Bass, Berry & Sims, a law firm in Washington, DC, advises companies on the complex rules applicable to contracting with federal and state governments. His practice includes litigating bid and size protests, counseling clients on unique regulations impacting their business, as well as responding to government allegations of procurement fraud or misconduct. In addition, he assists clients who are responding to suspension or debarment notices before various government agencies, including the U.S. Army, Air Force, and Navy; Defense Logistics Agency; EPA; GSA; and the Department of Homeland Security.

Adam Briscoe,  Associate at Bass, Berry & Sims advises companies as they navigate the contracting process with federal, state, and local governments. He counsels and represents clients on bid protests before the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the U.S. Court of Federal Claims (COFC), contract claims and disputes, teaming and subcontracting issues, due diligence for mergers and acquisitions, data rights and intellectual property issues, and compliance with cybersecurity and Small Business Administration (SBA) regulations. He further represents nontraditional contractors that provide emerging technology solutions and innovative services to the federal government through nontraditional contracting vehicles.

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.

A Roadmap to Your Professional Web Presence

Date: 1/26/2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/25/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Marketing/Sales, 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: The log-on information will be located in your registration confirmation email once you register.

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.

AI-Powered Success: Boost Profits, Cut Costs & Streamline Your Small Business

Date: 1/22/2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/21/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Marketing/Sales
Description:

Are you ready to unlock the true potential of AI in your small business? This webinar is designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners harness artificial intelligence to maximize profits, reduce expenses, and maximize productivity. We’ll dive into practical AI applications that will transform how you manage operations, streamline tasks, and make smarter decisions—all while minimizing the need to hire additional staff. From simple automation to advanced AI tools, this session will give you the roadmap to leverage cutting-edge technology for sustainable growth and a competitive edge. Presenter, Antonio Guerrero; Systematic Business Marketing

Instructions: Log-on information/link will be included, once you register, in your registration confirmation email.

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.

Managing Business Contracts 101

Date: 1/22/2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/21/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Legal Issues
Description:

Contracts and contractual relations are the cornerstone of any business, yes even a retail business (you just don't usually write the contract, but there is a contract). Understanding how to understand, use, and manage your contracts is key to business stability and growth. This session is an overview of contract drafting and management techniques of which every business, no matter how small, should be aware. Presenter, Matt Johnston, Esquire; Johnston Law Group

Instructions: The log-on information will be in your registration confirmation email.

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.

Ready, Set, Go (virtual)

Date: 1/22/2026
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)
Status: Open - 24 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 1/21/2026 3:00 PM (EST)
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.

Navigating Federal Contracts - Overview of Solicitations, Awards, and Contract Administration

Date: 1/21/2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EST)
Status: Canceled
Registration Deadline: 1/20/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Government Contracting
Description:

This presentation will provide an overview of the federal acquisition regulation, and common elements of the solicitation, award and contract performance phases of federal contracting. The presentation will provide attendees a high level understanding how the formality of solicitation changes based on the method being used and its impact on the performance requirements of the contractor. Additionally, some common risks are identified of which all contractors should be aware. Presenter, Dreux Johnson; Owlox Consulting

Instructions: The link to join will be sent in your registration confirmation email.

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.

Keys to Business Success: Funding & Financial Management

Date: 1/21/2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/20/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Business Financing
Description:

This SBDC training equips entrepreneurs with essential financial strategies to strengthen their business from the start. Participants will learn the top reasons small businesses fail—poor financial management, inadequate cash flow, and insufficient funding—and how to avoid these pitfalls. The session covers practical funding options, including self-funding, bank loans, and non-bank financing, and explains how non-bank lenders can help preserve valuable bank borrowing capacity. Attendees will also explore the benefits of equipment and asset financing—such as conserving capital, budgeting with fixed payments, accessing 100% financing, and maximizing tax advantages like Section 179. The training concludes with a clear overview of leasing options, including capital and operating leases, installment sales, and sale-leasebacks. Presenter, David Earle; Atlantic Capital

Instructions: Log-on information will be included in the registration confirmation email.

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.

Jump Start your Business - (3 day training)

Date: 1/20/2026
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/20/2026 5:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Monica Smith

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Business Financing, Business Plan, Business Start-up/Preplanning
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 January 20-22, 2026, with a bonus lab for assistance with your county SBDC Consultants to help with starting your business venture and with registering your business. January 20, 2026 - Jump Start Your Business January 21, 2026 - How to Become Certified and Do Business with the State of Maryland January 22, 2026 - Building Business Credit, Access to Capital and How to Write a Business Plan Various Presenters will lead sessions.

Instructions: Log-on information will be included in the registration confirmation email you receive once you register.

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.

Swipe Smart: The Credit Game Explained for Business Owners

Date: 1/20/2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/20/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Credit Counseling, Managing a Business
Description:

This session offers a practical and insightful look into the role of credit in business success, specifically tailored for small business owners. Whether you're just getting started or preparing to scale, this workshop provides a clear roadmap for understanding, building, and leveraging credit effectively. Participants will learn how to: -Distinguish between personal and business credit -Establish and strengthen business credit profiles -Use credit strategically to support business growth -Navigate credit cards, lines of credit, and financing options with confidence -Avoid common credit pitfalls that can harm long-term success This session equips business owners with the financial knowledge needed to build credibility with lenders, make informed decisions, and create a strong foundation for sustainable growth. Presenter, Stacey Smith Vice President Workplace Banking Relationship Manager; Fulton Bank

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.

Choosing The Right Legal Structure For Your Business

Date: 1/20/2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/19/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Legal Issues, Tax Planning
Description:

Forming a business can be confusing with regards to choosing the appropriate tax structure that works for your individual situation. This discussion will cover the various choices available to business owners and the income tax implications of each. Presenter, Cindy Sentelle, CPA MST President, Sentelle Corporate Solutions, LLC

Instructions: The log-on information is included in the confirmation email you will receive once you register.

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 QuickBooks Online

Live Event (online)

Date & Time: January 19, 2026, 6:00pm EST

Cost: $0.00

Duration: 90 minutes

Language: English

Register Now

About the event

This workshop is suitable for entry-level and beginner users of QuickBooks Online version only. It is not designed for intermediate users. The objective is to learn the basics and include the following topics:

• Introduction to QuickBooks Online 

• Which online version is right for you?

• Creating a new Company File

• Understanding the Dashboard, Gear & Plus Icons

• Chart of Accounts – “Customize it for your business”

• Creating an invoice and receiving payments

• Entering and paying bills.

• Linking your bank account to download transactions

• Categorizing expenses to the correct expense account

• Overview of Inventory

• Understanding the Basic Reports: Profit & Loss, Balance sheet, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable

• Overview of QuickBooks Mobile app

• Sharing file with accountant and other users

Fee: FREE

Copy of the recording and materials will be sent to all attendees.

VIDEO Rules! Video and OTT For Your Business Digital Marketing

Date: 1/15/2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/14/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

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

Video is king when it comes to digital advertising…but not all video is created equal! Learn how to best use Video and Over the Top Television to reach your target audience. Presenter, Dave Barnart, ManningMedia

Instructions: A log-on link will be included in your registration confirmation email once you have registered.

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

Date: 1/14/2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/13/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Accounting/Budget
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 included in the confirmation email once you register.

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.

What’s Changing in 2026? Tax Law Updates Every Maryland Business Owner Must Know

Date: 1/14/2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/13/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Tax Planning
Description:

Tax laws are shifting, and business owners cannot afford to be surprised. This session breaks down the new federal and Maryland changes that directly impact small businesses. You'll learn what actions matter most before filing season. Join this session and walk away confident and prepared for 2026. Presenter, Bev Stitely; Saunders Tax & Accounting

Instructions: A log-on link will be included in the confirmation email once you register.

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 Business Deal Playbook: How to Buy or Sell with Confidence

Date: 1/12/2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 1/11/2026 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Buy/Sell Business
Description:

Gain the insights, steps, and confidence to make your next business move a success. If you are a Seller or a Buyer, this training will help you understand your side and your counterpart's side of the transaction. Attending this training will provide you with facts to plan and prepare you for either buying a business or selling a business. As an attendee, you will understand the “why” and “how” as you learn from BOTH sides of the process! Participants will learn five steps for selling a business and five steps for buying a business. As a buyer and seller, you need to know and understand the major considerations and possible “sell/purchase” options. Learn the key steps, strategies, and insights from both sides of the transaction. Presenter, Richard Bock; FranNet Presenter, Richard Bock; FranNet

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.

Making The Case For Home-Based Businesses-Why You Should

Date: 12/9/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 12/8/2025 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

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

Join this session to learn why the Home-Based option for business ownership is growing in a post COVID world. This training applies to all business start-ups and includes a franchise component as well. The session is NOT about "HOW" to start a home-based business, it is about "WHY" to start a home-based business and describes some of those options. Presenter, Richard Bock, FranNet

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 $7 Secret: How Tiny Offers Create Big Lead Flow While Turning Strangers into Paying Customers

Date: 12/4/2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EST)
Registration Deadline: 12/3/2025 4:00 PM (EST)
Fee: No Fee

Point of Contact: Diane McFarland

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

The $7 Secret: How Tiny Offers Create Big Lead Flow: Turn Strangers into Paying Customers—Even If You’re New, Unknown, or Uncertain What if your marketing paid for itself? What if your “freebie seekers” suddenly turned into eager buyers who trusted you before they ever met you? In this 60-minute live class, you’ll discover how small, irresistible offers—$7 to $47—can build you a predictable river of real leads (the kind that actually show up, buy, and refer). You’ll learn: -Why “free” is killing your conversions (and what to do instead). -The brain chemistry that makes people value what they pay for. -The simple 3-step funnel that turns curiosity into commitment. -How to build your first low-ticket system, even if tech terrifies you. If you’re a small business owner, coach, or local service provider who’s tired of begging for attention—this class will show you how to get paid to grow your audience. Because the best customer isn’t the one you chase. It’s the one who chose to pay you first. Presenter, Antonio Guerrero; Systematic Business Marketing

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