Small Business Administration Events

Small Business Administration Logo

The Small Business Administration and our resource partners offer a variety of classes for business owners in our Entrepreneur Center, located at 455 Market Street, 6th Floor in downtown San Francisco. The SBA training program is made possible by the generous support of our volunteer teachers and presenters. We appreciate their time and expertise; however, these presentations do not represent an endorsement of their views, opinions, products, or services by the SBA. Classes are free, unless a fee is listed. All SBA programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities will be made, if requested at least 2 weeks in advance.

Contact:
Gary Marshall at 415 744-6771. Registration for all our classes is required.

May 17, 2012

Thursday, May 17, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM What is your prospect most interested in? Whatever it is, this should be the first thing you address in all of your marketing communication (i.e. print, online and in-person). You need to come right to the key point. Then, explain further. In a world of short attention spans, you need to assume you will only have a few seconds to catch someone's interest before they move on.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
May 17, 2012

Thursday, May 17, 2012 from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Topics include developing a budget, statement of cash flow analysis, and developing a cash forecast. Participants should have complete Basic Bookkeeping Part I or be familiar with the concepts covered in that seminar.  $35 registration fee.  Presented by the San Francisco SBDC. Sorry, No Refunds.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
May 21, 2012

Monday, May 21, 2012 from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (PT)

How to Start and Manage a Small Business 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This is a comprehensive and unique one-day seminar for both prospective and current business owners who want to gain a better understanding of what they need to know and do to succeed in their business. Learn best practices and insider tips as a moderator and industry experts guide you through the basics Business Plans Insuring Against Risk Accounting Legal Structures Sales & Marketing Financing...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Conferences
May 21, 2012

Monday, May 21, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

  We’ll discuss the specifics of opening and running a successful restaurant.  Topics will include business plans, food and beverage vendors, market research, location, pricing strategies and operating plans.  $35 registration fee.  Presented by the SF SBDC.   Sorry, No Refunds.  
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
May 21, 2012

Monday, May 21, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM (PT)

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM In this class you will learn how to develop a returning and referring clientele.  Specifics:  Avoid stereotypical errors using a friendlier approach; Meeting and qualifying prospects traditional methods and online; Required research prior to official conversation; Gain perspective to speak to interests; Communication techniques; Work to serve and build community; Convert conversations to proposals; Acquire new clients while receiving repeat business, referrals and testimonia...
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
May 22, 2012

Tuesday, May 22, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

6:00 PM - 8:30 PM This course will explore who should be looking into opening a merchant account, methods of accepting payments from your customers, current trends, how you can turn a merchant account into greater profits for your business, where you can go to set up a merchant account, how the entire process flows and works, what you should consider before signing on the dotted line, merchant account terminology, and how you can save yourself money.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
May 22, 2012

Tuesday, May 22, 2012 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

Secrets to Buying and Selling a Business or Franchise Learn how to reduce your risk and improve your chances of success in buying or selling a franchise or existing business. This workshop covers the steps necessary for you to succeed working with professionals, and using simple research and qualification techniques. Topics include: How to choose the Right Business or Franchise Positioning Your Business for Sale Buyer and Seller Financing Pre-registration is required.
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
May 24, 2012

Thursday, May 24, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

This overview will discuss setting-up, updating and running financial reports, and efficient procedures for entering your accounting data.  This is a hands-on workshop. Participants should have complete Basic Bookkeeping Part I or be familiar with the concepts covered in that workshop.  $65 registration fee.  Presented by the San Francisco SBDC.   Sorry, No Refunds.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
May 29, 2012

Tuesday, May 29, 2012 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Maintaining Tax Records Learn the money-saving tax strategies of the pros, in this fun interactive course, and how to effectively create the tax records necessary for proper IRS reporting. Receive a valuable overview of how to use technology to simplify your life iwth on-line banking and QuickBooks. Pre-registration is required Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is suggested. We are located mid-way between the Embarcadero and Montgomery Bart Stations. More re...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
May 31, 2012

Thursday, May 31, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM (PT)

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM This workshop will explain provisions of the HUBZone Program and the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program.  Eligibility requirements, application and certification will be explained.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
May 31, 2012

Thursday, May 31, 2012 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM This workshop is for small firms owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals interested in being certified for SBA's 8(a) Business Development Program.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
May 31, 2012

Thursday, May 31, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Topics include payroll, setting preferences, restoring files, and list maintenance including chart of accounts. Participants should have completed Basic Bookkeeping Part I and Introduction to QuickBooks or be familiar with the concepts in these workshops.  $65 Registration fee.  Presented by the SF SBDC.  For more information call: 415-841-4050.   No Refunds
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
May 31, 2012

Thursday, May 31, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

In this class, learn to ensure the highest placement on search engines; how to use Web analytics to keep your customers on your site; and how to convert site visitors into paying customers.  Presented by the SF SBDC.  Registration fee $35 in advance, $40 at the door.
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 1, 2012

Friday, June 1, 2012 from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

The Power of Email Marketing - 7 Keys to Success Build the relationships that are the key to your business success with easy, inexpensive and highly effective email marketing! In this seminar, we will provide tips to increase your email deliverability and open rates, write good headlines and content, and perhaps most importantly, strategies for getting -- and keeping -- high quality prospects, customers and members. You will learn how to: * Become a trusted email sender in the eyes of your pro...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 4, 2012

Monday, June 4, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

  This class will cover understanding food, beverage and labor costs.  We will provide you the tools to develop schedule forecasts, recipe plate costing, and inventory management. $35 Registration Fee. Presented by the SF SBDC.   Sorry, No Refunds.
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 5, 2012

Tuesday, June 5, 2012 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Learn how to make the best use of your corporation or LLC to save money and shield yourself from liabilities. Learn the compliance details of when and how to properly set up your entity including medical insurance plans, compensation strategies for tax planning, records management, and banking. Pre-Registration is Required Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is suggested. We are located mid-way between the Embarcadero and Montgomery Bart Stations. More reasona...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 6, 2012

Wednesday, June 6, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (PT)

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM  Representatives from SBA, the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights, the San Francisco Public Library Small Business Center, SCORE, San Francisco Small Business Development Center, Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center, Women’s Initiative for Self Employment or AnewAmerica will discuss the resources available
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 6, 2012

Wednesday, June 6, 2012 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM (PT)

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Hear directly from San Francisco officials.  How do you obtain permits?  How do you register your business name? Learn what the City can do for you in this one-stop seminar.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 6, 2012

Wednesday, June 6, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM (PT)

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Discover the right way to seek financing for your business. We will discuss loan proposal requirements, financing options and SBA programs
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 6, 2012

Wednesday, June 6, 2012 from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM (PT)

3:30 PM - 5:30 PM An experienced business lawyer will discuss Choice of Legal Entity (corporations, LLC, partnership, etc.); Intellectual Property; Employee issues; and Real Estate issues.   This class does not constitute legal advice.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 6, 2012

Wednesday, June 6, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Branding is critical to any business strategy.  There are key principles beyond the artwork and its’ attributes. This seminar will cover the key building blocks behind the development of a brand.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 7, 2012

Thursday, June 7, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM An experienced business lawyer will discuss the process of seeking Venture Capital funding, including how to tell when you’re ready to talk to Venture Capitalists, how to find your Venture Capitalist, the dos and don’ts of presenting to Venture Capitalists, and how a typical Venture Capital deal is structured.  This class does not constitute legal advice.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 7, 2012

Thursday, June 7, 2012 from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Topics include cash vs. accrual accounting, proper accounting data flow processes, budgeting, the purpose of different financial reports, the differences in computer accounting systems, cash management, and more.  $35 registration fee.  Presented by the San Francisco SBDC.     Sorry, No Refunds.
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 7, 2012

Thursday, June 7, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Our panel of experienced consultants will discuss the insider story of opening and running your business as a consultant.  Topics will include finding clients, pricing your services, establishing a business identity, legal requirements, and maintaining customer loyalty.  This is not a lecture, it is a discussion based on questions from the audience. Be ready to bring your questions and participate. $35 registration fee.  Presented by the SF SBDC.   Sorry, No Refunds
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 8, 2012

Friday, June 8, 2012 from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

In just a few short hours, this information-packed seminar will review the essential strategies and best practices a business or organization should understand in order to successfully get started with social media marketing. We will talk about What social media marketing really is and why its important; Various social media networks and tools: how they interact, ways to leverage their strengths, and how to evaluate them for best use for your business or organization; How other business...
Read more...
Listed in Conferences and Business
Jun 11, 2012

Monday, June 11, 2012 from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Hear what some of the top pros in the restaurant industry and media have to say about distinguishing your restaurant.  $35 Registration Fee. Presented by the SF SBDC. No refunds.
Read more...
Jun 11, 2012

Monday, June 11, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Want to learn easy ways to improve your brand image, lower your operating costs and communicate effectively to your customers while also helping the planet? This class teaches you how to be a green business and gives you simple steps to implement right away. Learn how to get certifies for free by the Bay Area Green Business Program and find the resources you need for your business. Presented by the SF SBDC. $35 registration fee.  
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 12, 2012

Tuesday, June 12, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

  Learn ways to improve productivity in you workplace with SharePoint and options beyond emails/phone to collaborate with within an industry.      
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 13, 2012

Wednesday, June 13, 2012 at 9:00 AM (PT)

Jump-start your business idea with SCORE SimpleSTEPS Workshops June 13: Startup Basics - Evaluate your idea. See if SimpleSTEPS is for you. Attendance at this session is a pre-requisite for taking the series. If you do not attend the June 13 session or have taken one of the previous Session I's, you are not eligible to take the balance of the workshops. There is no registration for individual workshops. Registration for the balance of the series will start June 13 at 1:00 pm and wil...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 13, 2012

Wednesday, June 13, 2012 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Save money on your taxes by learning the IRS rules and regulations that apply to small-business owners, and get answers to your tax questions in this informative, interactive, live seminar covering tax deductions, incorporations, LLCs, and commonly used tax strategies. Pre-Registration is Required Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is suggested. We are located mid-way between the Embarcadero and Montgomery Bart Stations. More reasonable parking lots do exi...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 14, 2012

Thursday, June 14, 2012 from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

We’ll cover balance sheets, incomes statements, cash flow and working capital.  Participants should have completed Basic Bookkeeping, Part One, or be familiar with the concepts covered in that seminar.  $35 registration fee.  Presented by the San Francisco SBDC. Sorry, No Refunds.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 14, 2012

Thursday, June 14, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

As a result of recent innovations Online Display Advertising has become a potent tool for LOCAL businesses.  Discover best practices for deploying this rapidly growing and powerful tool for your business.  We will examine the evolution of the medium and how best to harness the potential of Online Display Advertising for the small business. Free class. Presented by SF SBDC .
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 18, 2012

Monday, June 18, 2012 from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

In this class, you will learn proper recruiting and hiring processes, the importance of job descriptions, employee vs. independent contractor, interviewing do's and don'ts, orientation, employee benefits, insurance protection and other legal matters.  This class is based on real restaurant experiences.  $35 Registration Fee. Sponsored by the SF SBDC.   No Refunds
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 18, 2012

Monday, June 18, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

What to do and how to structure your web content: The techniques for getting a visitor who is on your website to become a customer/client are critical for the success of a website and web environment. This seminar discusses the objectives, structure, content, and action items of effective websites and how to present your value proposition to engage visitors who are 'just looking.' Presented by the SF SBDC.  Registration fee $35 in advance, $40 at the door.
Read more...
at
 
Jun 19, 2012

Tuesday, June 19, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

This class will cover the Federal government market, what the Federal government purchasing process is like, how to research government contract opportunities, identifying certification programs.  $25 Presented by the SF SBDC
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 19, 2012

Tuesday, June 19, 2012 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM (PT)

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM What is your prospect most interested in? Whatever it is, this should be the first thing you address in all of your marketing communication (i.e. print, online and in-person). You need to come right to the key point. Then, explain further. In a world of short attention spans, you need to assume you will only have a few seconds to catch someone's interest before they move on.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 20, 2012

Wednesday, June 20, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

  6:00 PM – 8:30 PM   Have you invented a new product that you think might be patentable?  Have you designed a website or created a business method that you think may be patentable?  Come and learn what may be patented, and how to do so in a cost-effective manner!          
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 21, 2012

Thursday, June 21, 2012 from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Topics include developing a budget, statement of cash flow analysis, and developing a cash forecast. Participants should have complete Basic Bookkeeping Part I or be familiar with the concepts covered in that seminar.  $35 registration fee.  Presented by the San Francisco SBDC. Sorry, No Refunds.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 22, 2012

Friday, June 22, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

As business storefronts move to the internet, SCORE presents an extensive session to help you strategize, setup and execute your own online business. You will learn to: Design a Strategy for your Online Business Define Business Model and Commercial Model Executing an Online Business Marketing an Online Business
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 25, 2012

Monday, June 25, 2012 from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (PT)

How to Start and Manage a Small Business 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This is a comprehensive and unique one-day seminar for both prospective and current business owners who want to gain a better understanding of what they need to know and do to succeed in their business. Learn best practices and insider tips as a moderator and industry experts guide you through the basics Business Plans Insuring Against Risk Accounting Legal Structures Sales & Marketing Financing...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Conferences
Jun 25, 2012

Monday, June 25, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Topics include ingredient and payroll cost analysis, sales and use taxes, catering sales, customer and vendor set up, etc.  Exercises include daily register and POS system sales, setting up budgets, etc.  This is a hands-on workshop.  Participants should have completed Basic Bookkeeping Part I or be familiar with the concepts covered in these workshop.  $65 registration fee.  Presented by the San Francisco SBDC.     Sorry, No Refunds.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 25, 2012

Monday, June 25, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

6:00 PM - 8:30 PM The pre-printed lease form looks daunting, and the broker is pressuring you to sign right now – but wait!  There are many parts of an office, retail, or other commercial lease that you can and should negotiate with the landlord to increase the odds of success for your business.  An experienced business and real estate attorney will help you learn how to make well-informed commercial tenant decisions and prepare for landlord negotiations.  This class does not constitute le...
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 26, 2012

Tuesday, June 26, 2012 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Maintaining Tax Records Learn the money-saving tax strategies of the pros, in this fun interactive course, and how to effectively create the tax records necessary for proper IRS reporting. Receive a valuable overview of how to use technology to simplify your life iwth on-line banking and QuickBooks. Pre-registration is required Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is suggested. We are located mid-way between the Embarcadero and Montgomery Bart Stations. More re...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 26, 2012

Tuesday, June 26, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (PT)

Learn how to go “green” by going mobile and how to make the most of your electronic gadgets to achieve higher work productivity.    
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 27, 2012

Wednesday, June 27, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

Doing business in San Francisco's Enterprise Zone?  Manufacturing new and unique products?  This free workshop will teach you the ins-and-out of Enterprise Zone and Research and Development tax credits for your business.  Learn how to save money by paying less to the IRS! We'll cover: Enterprise Zone tax credits Hiring credits Sales and use tax credits and explore other programs designed to help you recoup expenses related to business and product improvement Food and refreshments ...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jun 28, 2012

Thursday, June 28, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM (PT)

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM This workshop will explain provisions of the HUBZone Program and the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program.  Eligibility requirements, application and certification will be explained.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 28, 2012

Thursday, June 28, 2012 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM This workshop is for small firms owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals interested in being certified for SBA's 8(a) Business Development Program.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jun 28, 2012

Thursday, June 28, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Hosted by SF SBDC

This overview will discuss setting-up, updating and running financial reports, and efficient procedures for entering your accounting data.  This is a hands-on workshop. Participants should have complete Basic Bookkeeping Part I or be familiar with the concepts covered in that workshop.  $65 registration fee.  Presented by the San Francisco SBDC.   Sorry, No Refunds.
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jul 2, 2012

Monday, July 2, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (PT)

How do you set prices for your business or service? Are they working? When should you change them? This interactive workshop will address these topics as well as the role of pricing in the overall Marketing Mix. Pre-Registration is Required Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is suggested. We are located mid-way between the Embarcadero and Montgomery Bart Stations. More reasonable parking lots do exist at 522 Mission, 10 Natoma and 150 First Street but usuall...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jul 10, 2012

Tuesday, July 10, 2012 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Save money on your taxes by learning the IRS rules and regulations that apply to small-business owners, and get answers to your tax questions in this informative, interactive, live seminar covering tax deductions, incorporations, LLCs, and commonly used tax strategies. Pre-Registration is Required Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is suggested. We are located mid-way between the Embarcadero and Montgomery Bart Stations. More reasonable parking lots do exi...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jul 17, 2012

Tuesday, July 17, 2012 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PT)

Maintaining Tax Records Learn the money-saving tax strategies of the pros, in this fun interactive course, and how to effectively create the tax records necessary for proper IRS reporting. Receive a valuable overview of how to use technology to simplify your life iwth on-line banking and QuickBooks. Pre-registration is required Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is suggested. We are located mid-way between the Embarcadero and Montgomery Bart Stations. More re...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Jul 24, 2012

Tuesday, July 24, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM (PT)

This seminar enables you to develop an understanding of the financial parameters of your company and provides the tools for making the best financial and planning decisions. Topics covered: Startup Costs Sales Forecasting Operating Expenses Cash Flow Breakeven Analysis Financial Reports Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is suggested. We are located mid-way between the Embarcadero and Montgomery Bart Stations. More reasonable parking lots do exist at 522...
Read more...
Listed in Business and Classes
Jul 25, 2012

Wednesday, July 25, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM (PT)

Learn the fundamentals for developing a marketing plan and strategy to increase sales. We will cover how to determine the market opportunity for your product or service, create value for your customers, use effective promotional and social media strategies, and best practices for reaching new customers and keeping existing ones. Vital topics include: Pricing Website Tips Lead Tracking Social Media Strategies Branding & Positioning ...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business
Aug 29, 2012

Wednesday, August 29, 2012 at 9:00 AM - Thursday, August 30, 2012 at 4:00 PM (PT)

Whether you are planning to start a new business or developing the potential of your existing company, a business plan is a critical foundation. In this hands-on workshop, we will demystify the process using case studies and exercises. You will also develop a template for your own business that covers: Products/Services Organization Marketing Customers Finances Market Research Pre-registration is required Parking in the area is very expensive. Public transportation is s...
Read more...
Listed in Classes and Business