Want to learn how to create easy and meaningful content for your social media platforms? Join WBDC’s Terri Piekara, Social Media Business adviser for a 1/2 day workshop to walk you through the step-by-step process complete with content writing, starting with your “hook,” media creation, and basic editing all from your smartphone! This class has a $40 fee.
Instructor Bio:
Terri Piekara is a social media consultant, Instagram strategist and podcaster who believes deeply in the Three C’s – Communication, Connection and Community. She guides solopreneurs and small business owners to speak authentically about themselves and their businesses through social media.
Social media and social audio are, above all else, social and are most powerful when real conversations are happening. When business owners show up on their social platforms consistently, with value and authenticity, they build their brands, attract new followers, and grow sales.
Terri has a BS degree from Syracuse University. Before joining WBDC, she worked in the airline, retail and small business industries.
When she is not deep diving the latest social platform, Terri can be found listening to podcasts while walking her dog and drinking good coffee.

The State of Connecticut contracts everything from catering to construction and gasoline to guiderails. Learn what certifications are available (e.g. small business, women-owned, and more) and how certification can help Small Businesses build revenue and find potential new customers.We’ll cover eligibility, steps, and the growth and marketing opportunities certification brings to your company.

This class is for anyone wanting to start a business in Connecticut. We’ll walk you through the whole process, from understanding business entity types and writing your business plan to exploring business viability, learning about financing options, and registering it with the state and federal government. You’ll learn about the considerations you need to make if you plan to hire employees.By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of the steps you need to take to turn your business idea into reality.

Accessing capital for your small business at any stage can be a challenge.
Does this describe you?
2+years in business tracking business financials Looking for loan in next 12 months Not sure what type of loan is right for your business or where to start? JOIN US! In this dynamic 3-part workshop we will review loan options for business owners, the loan process, work on the financials needed by lenders. We will review things you can do today, next month and throughout the year to set your business up for success.
Tuesdays: October 7, 14, 21
12:00pm – 1:30pm
Please complete the application to share your status.

GPS: AGuide toPlan forSuccess is WBDC’s comprehensive business plan writing course, designed for entrepreneurs with a single, concrete business idea who are looking for instruction, support, and expert advice while building a business plan. Each of the highly interactive 9 sessions focus on a critical aspect of business development, including marketing, sales, and finance. Included in the course is the Business Advisory Event, which provides an opportunity for you to pitch your business concept to an array of business professionals and receive customized feedback about how to move forward.
Accepted applicants receive a 6-month subscription to LivePlan, the world’s leading business plan writing software (a $240 value).
Eligible GPS graduates who complete the course and furnish a completed business plan are invited to apply for the WBDC Launch Pad Grant*. This offers newly established businesses the opportunity to receive a $2,500 grant for start-up costs.​ Applicants must complete an application and participate in a pitch competition. A panel of judges determines grant awardees. More details and eligibility requirements can be found here: LaunchPad Grant Program
Wednesdays, 5:00 – 7:00 October 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5, 12, 19 (skip 26, Thanksgiving), December 3, 10 WBDC Virtual Classroom
Fee: $299** Application Required-Apply by Wednesday,September 24 Class size is limited; applications will be processed in the order in which they are received.
A WBDC Business Advisor will be in contact with you to arrange an assessment interview prior to admittance to the course. APPLY HERE:Guide to Plan for Success (GPS) Application
Client Requirements
Must have a single, concrete business concept or be an established business with a record of sales. Must submit a completed application and participate in an assessment interview with a WBDC Business Advisor. Must be willing to actively participate in the program, including being fully present for each of the 2-hour sessions and completing all necessary assignments and homework. *WBDC’s LaunchPad Grant is not available for child care providers. Child care providers graduating from GPS, however, may be eligible for our Child Care Business Opportunity Fund grants.
**Reduced-fee scholarships of up to 50% off are available to those who qualify based on income guidelines. Apply within the application.
APPLY HERE:Guide to Plan for Success (GPS) Application

In this in person – hands on clinic, bring your required documents in electronic format into the classroom and the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) team will help you submit your application for the Small Business Enterprise Certification. The team will answer your questions and help walk you through the application steps.
Required Documents

Course Overview
Gain a comprehensive understanding of marketing and the tools to develop a strategic marketing plan. This interactive 7-session course is for business owners looking for instruction, support, and expert advice on marketing principles and the ability to put them into action. The course culminates with a peer-to-peer review session giving you access to a live focus group and actionable feedback. You will leave this course with a comprehensive marketing plan and tactics which you can put in place immediately to help grow your business.
The program is led by knowledgeable WBDC Business Advisors who provide resources, support, and motivation. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable tools that can help bring your business to the next level!
Fee: $149*Application Required-Apply by Oct 2
Apply Here
A WBDC Business Advisor will be in contact with you to arrange an assessment interview prior to admittance to the course

Course Schedule
Wednesdays, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PMOctober 9, 16, 23, 30; Nov 6, 13, 20
Sessions/Topics
Session 1 – Oct 9: Why is a Marketing Plan Critical for Your Business Session 2 – Oct 16: Knowing Your Competitors Session 3 – Oct 23: Target Markets, Market Research, and Measuring Success Session 4 – Oct 30: Your Brand, Your Message and How to Share It Session 5 – Nov 6: Setting your Marketing Goals Session 6 – Nov 13: Aligning strategies to support your goals (breakout rooms) Session 7 – Nov 20: Implementing your Plan Marketing Plan due by: Dec 4
Prerequisites:
Been in business for at least 6 months and have a record of sales Actively engaged in marketing activities for your business prior to starting the course Have the ability and commitment to take personal ownership of the marketing responsibilities for your business Willing to fully participate in the program, including attending the sessions and completing all necessary assignments and homework *Reduced-fee scholarships are available to those who qualify based on income guidelines.

Join WBDC to meet and mingle with fellow entrepreneurs and WBDC team members. We’ll provide light snacks and coffee – additional food and specialty drinks will be available for purchase.Meet us downtown New Haven at Havenly – Community Café & Homestyle Kitchenfor delicious food and the opportunity to connect in person and share ideas and inspiration with fellow community members.

Course Description:
Building a website doesn’t have to be overwhelming — you just need the right plan and guidance. In this hands-on, in-person series, you’ll learn step-by-step how to plan your site, choose the right platform, design pages that convert, and launch your business website with confidence. Over 3 weekly sessions (90 minutes each), you’ll get expert instruction, peer support, and practical tools to create a professional online presence that reflects your brand and helps grow your business.
Note: This Series is an In-Person Event. Please bring your laptop and come on time to our Hartford office location at:190 Trumbull Street, Hartford, CT, 2nd floor. If you miss a session, we can share the notes but you will likely be at a disadvantage going into the next session, therefore we encourage you to be sure you can commit to all three.
Session 1: 10/14/25
Session 2: 10/21/25
Session 3: 10/28/25

Instructor Bio:
Joy Braddock brings with her almost a decade of experience as a small business owner, and over 20 years’ experience in marketing and advertising. As a former co-owner of a local brewery, she understands the passion, drive and perseverance needed to start and run a small business. Joy is the co-founder and President of the Bombshell Project, a non-profit on a mission to help women enter and lead in the male-dominated craft brewing industry.

One of the most overlooked yet crucial parts of running a successful business is understanding how and when to pay yourself. In this practical and engaging class, we’ll break down the different ways business owners can legally and effectively pay themselves based on business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, S Corp, etc.). You’ll learn the importance of setting a salary, how to separate personal and business finances, and what to consider when budgeting for your own paycheck. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for a while, this class will give you the knowledge and confidence to compensate yourself in a way that supports both your personal financial goals and your business growth.
Key Takeaways:
The best way to pay yourself based on your business type Understanding owner’s draw vs. salary How to calculate a sustainable and fair payment Tax considerations and recordkeeping best practices Tools and strategies for maintaining healthy business cash flow

Have questions about QuickBooks Online? Join Sherry Konwerski, Business Advisor and Certified QuickBooks Pro, for an open office hour session where you can get real-time answers and support. Whether you’re just getting started or need help with specific features, this is a great opportunity to learn simple, effective techniques to better manage your business finances. Drop in with your questions and leave with greater confidence in using QuickBooks Online.

New to the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC)?
Have you used our services but want to know what else we can help with?
Come learn about the resources we offer to small businesses – most of which are offered at no cost. Join WBDC’s Concilia Ndlovu,Taylor Bergeron and Sonique Solis to find out how to get started. We have something for individuals at all stages of business – entrepreneurial and financial education services, grants, promotional and community-building opportunities, and much more! Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, are looking to expand your business skills, or are ready to scale, WBDC can help drive your success in a tangible and accessible way.

New to the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC)?
Have you used our services but want to know what else we can help with?
Come learn about the resources we offer to small businesses – most of which are offered at no cost. Join WBDC’s Concilia Ndlovu,Taylor Bergeron and Sonique Solis to find out how to get started. We have something for individuals at all stages of business – entrepreneurial and financial education services, grants, promotional and community-building opportunities, and much more! Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, are looking to expand your business skills, or are ready to scale, WBDC can help drive your success in a tangible and accessible way.

Early-stage companies occasionally need capital assistance to stay afloat and finance their day-to-day operations. Despite this, many small businesses and startups find it difficult to get access to capital. Join Tanya Kelley and Samantha Cross,our Business Advisors to hear potential sources of capital for entrepreneurs.
Topics include:
Credit score Bank loans – Personal loans – CT Boost Presale/ early investment Self funding – Friends and family

Course Description:
Whether you’re just getting started or think your website is already optimized, most small business owners miss critical SEO steps that limit their online visibility. In this fast-paced, one-hour session, Miria Gray will break down how search engines actually rank your site and reveal common mistakes that can prevent customers from finding you. Walk away with simple, actionable strategies you can implement easily to strengthen your online presence and grow your business.
Instructor Bio:
Miria Gray joined the Chelsea Groton team in July of 2017 and ever since, has been working to educate and improve the lives of the members of our communities.Prior to Chelsea Groton, she was the Marketing Director for Norwich Community Development Corporation (NCDC), where she developed public events in conjunction with other community organizations and city agencies, oversaw economic development activities, and managed NCDC’s traditional and digital marketing.
She is a graduate of Franklin Pierce University with a BA in English and Secondary Education, a proud 2015 Southeastern CT 40 Under 40 Award recipient and the 2023 recipient of the Greater Norwich Area Chamber Service Award.

Are you thinking a business loan might be in your future? Have questions about what lenders look for? Join us for a panel discussion with three lenders to talk about what makes a business “bankable” and things you can begin to do now to set yourself up for success in the future.
Topics include:
What you need to know before you apply What documents are needed When is the right time to get a loan How to set yourself (and your business) up for success

New to the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC)?
Have you used our services but want to know what else we can help with?
Come learn about the resources we offer to small businesses – most of which are offered at no cost. Join WBDC’s Concilia Ndlovu,Taylor Bergeron and Sonique Solis to find out how to get started. We have something for individuals at all stages of business – entrepreneurial and financial education services, grants, promotional and community-building opportunities, and much more! Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, are looking to expand your business skills, or are ready to scale, WBDC can help drive your success in a tangible and accessible way.

As a small business owner, are you aware about personal property taxes?
Every October, every town in Connecticut sends a personal property declaration to all registered business owners in their town.You are required to submit the form to the town by November 1to avoid a 25% penalty. The form is used to determine your Personal Property Tax, payable to the town.
Sherry Konwerski, WBDC Business Advisor, and Sarah Watson, a CPAwith the accounting and consulting firm CliftonLarsonAnderson, will show you the proper way to complete the form to make sure you are in compliance and pay the appropriate amount of taxes.

Running a small business can be complex and challenging, which is why entrepreneurs need a strong support system. Join this class for an interactive panel discussion between representatives from each industry to explain why having a banker, accountant, insurer, and lawyer is essential for your business’s success.
Banker: Helps manage finances, secure loans, and provide financial advice. Accountant: Keeps accurate financial records, ensures tax compliance, and helps with budgeting. Insurer: Protects your business from risks and unexpected events. Lawyer: Handles legal issues, drafts contracts, and protects intellectual property. By the end of this class, you’ll understand the importance of these professionals and how to work with them to support and grow your business.

Join the Women’s Business Development Council, the Greater Norwalk Chamber, and the City of Norwalk to meet and mingle with business professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Cash bar and light appetizers will be provided. Meet us at Coalsin Norwalk for delicious food and the opportunity to connect in person and share ideas and inspiration with fellow community members.
Parking is located across the street in the Main Street Lot.

Did you know that international sales are not just for large manufacturers? If you are an artist, jewelry designer, beauty care producer, candle maker, etc. then international expansion may be a great way for you to increase sales. If you are a service provider in the fields of website design, accounting, law, or travel services, just to name a few, you are a part of some of the fastest growing export industries!
Join U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Specialist Jacqueline Torcellini to learn more about the export potential of your product or service and the resources available to your company to explore your product or services export potential.

Instructor Bio: Jacqueline Torcellini has been providing export business support for over a decade and has assisted scores of businesses to either start exporting or to expand their existing international business. She has worked extensively with the Small Business Administration, Connecticut Small Business Development Center, the Women’s Business Development Council, and other organizations to support international expansion efforts. She has a master’s degree in political science and international relations.

The Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund gives small business owners access to flexible funding for capital expenditures and working capital and connects them with support services. This fund was created to provide access to working capital for those who need it most. Learn about this new opportunity, how to get your business prepared to accept investments, access low interest loans, and invest in your success!

Course Description:
This course will allow you to take your SEO knowledge to the next level by focusing on how to attract local customers through targeted strategies. This one-hour session will show you how to optimize your website and online presence for local search results, including Google Business, local keywords, and location-based content. Learn how to boost visibility where it matters most—right in your community.
Instructor Bio:Joy Braddock brings with her almost a decade of experience as a small business owner, and over 20 years’ experience in marketing and advertising. As the co-founder of a local brewery, she understands the passion, drive and perseverance needed to start and run a small business. Joy is the co-founder and President of the Bombshell Project, a non-profit on a mission to help women enter and lead in the male-dominated craft brewing industry.

Thinking about starting a business but not sure where to begin? This practical class will help you explore if entrepreneurship is right for you, understand what makes a business idea work, and walk through key decisions before you launch. Perfect for anyone with a spark of an idea and a desire to turn it into something real.

The business structure you choose influences everything from the distribution of profits, to taxes, to how much of your personal assets are at risk. Choosing a structure that provides the right balance of complexity and benefits is key to starting your business. Join WBDC business advisor Pat Klapper as she reviews the pros and cons of common business structures – sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations.She will also review the process and benefits of converting from an LLC to an S-Corp.

Join WBDC Business Advisor, Carol Cheswick, to learnwhy having a solid business plan is crucial for success. She will review key parts of a business plan like identifying your customers, understanding your competition, and making financial predictions. You’ll get practical tips to create a strong plan for your business, helping you start off on the right foot and set yourself up for success.

Understanding how to become certified as a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) can be confusing — but we’re here to help!
Join Tanisha Baptiste-Bynum, Lead Outreach & Marketing Specialist and Veterans Business Development Officer, as she walks you through the certification process and how to get started.
Topics include: • How to begin your WOSB certification • Women-Owned Certification overview • Opportunities in federal government contracting
Don’t miss this chance to get clear, actionable guidance directly from the SBA!

Comprender cómo obtener la certificación como Pequeña Empresa Propiedad de Mujeres (WOSB) puede ser confuso, ¡pero estamos aquí para ayudarte!Únete a Tanisha Baptiste-Bynum, Especialista Principal en Difusión y Marketing y Responsable de Desarrollo de Negocios para Veteranos, quien te guiará a través del proceso de certificación y cómo empezar.Los temas incluyen:• Cómo comenzar tu certificación WOSB• Resumen de la Certificación para Pequeñas Empresas Propiedad de Mujeres• Oportunidades en la contratación del gobierno federal¡No pierdas la oportunidad de obtener orientación clara y práctica directamente de la SBA!

Projections are a very important part for applying for any type of funding. Funders need to feel that the borrower understands their business thoroughly and their ability to grow it with the funds they are providing. Projections need to be done properly to accurately create that picture for the Funder. Improper projections can show a lack of business stability, profits and overall growth.
If you are applying for the Ignite Grant – join WBDC’s business advisors to get support.

Join our Hartford Small Business Mastermind! Connect with other entrepreneurs and boost your business for the new year. In this supportive group, you’ll discuss challenges, brainstorm solutions, and celebrate each other’s successes. Each meeting will offer practical insights and strategies tailored to your goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, this mastermind will help you overcome obstacles and build a strong network. Let’s unlock your potential and get ahead for the year!

Course Description:Thinking about hiring a marketing agency but not sure where to start? This session, led by Jamie Taylor, agency founder/CEO who regularly works with small businesses, will help you understand when it makes sense to bring in outside marketing help, how to evaluate agencies, and what to expect from the relationship.We’ll also tackle one of the biggest challenges small businesses face:finding an agency that’s theright fitfor your goals, budget, and communication style.

Instructor Bio:
Jamie Taylor, Founder and CEO of Taylored Media (https://www.tayloredgroup.com/ has worked on local, regional, and national campaigns for several industries including retail, legal, healthcare, and automotive. Her passion to see something become more than it is and commitment to excellence gave way to what seemed to be a such natural progression to the formation of Taylored Media Group. Jamie’s consultative approach to her clients’ needs is what forges long-lasting relationships, which are built on trust.

Course Description: Hiring a marketing agency can be a game-changer for small businesses—but only if it’s the right fit. In this one-hour seminar, you’ll learn how to identify when it’s time to bring in outside help, what questions to ask when interviewing agencies, and how to set clear goals and expectations for a successful partnership. Taught by an experienced agency owner who regularly works with small business clients, this session will help you avoid common missteps and make smarter marketing investments.
Top Takeaways:
Recognize the signs your business is ready for outside marketing support
Learn how to evaluate and choose the right agency for your goals and budget
Understand how to set clear deliverables, timelines, and communication expectations
Gain strategies for tracking performance and managing the relationship long-term
Instructor Bio:
Jamie Taylor.As a media and digital strategist for over a decade and award-winning content creator and blogger, Jamie Taylor has worked on local, regional, and national campaigns for several industries including retail, legal, healthcare, and automotive. Her passion to see something become more than it is and commitment to excellence gave way to what seemed to be a such natural progression to the formation of Taylored Media Group. Jamie’s consultative approach to her clients’ needs is what forges long-lasting relationships, which are built on trust.

Protect yourself and your business! This interactive session breaks down the essentials of contracts—what to look for, what to avoid, and how to protect your interests. Learn how to confidently review, negotiate, and sign agreements without costly mistakes. Join Janet Johnson, WBDC Business Advisor and our special guest Joshua Hecht, Attorney from Caplan & Hecht, LCC in New Haven. Joshua will be able to answer some of your burning questions to make smarter moves in business.
Disclaimer: This session is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Participants are encouraged to retain their own legal counsel for advice specific to their business needs.

This course is designed strictly for aspiring entrepreneurs that are in the pre-venture stage.
Gain a clear understanding of business building fundamentals and emerge from this class with a solid blueprint firmly in hand. Turn your business idea into a well thought-out road map for your venture. This 8-session course is taught virtually by industry experts in a dynamic peer-to-peer environment and is supported by online tools and decision worksheets to guide you every step of the way.
Tuesdays & Thursdays: October 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30
5:30pm – 7:30pm
Application Due Date: Friday, September 25
Prerequisites:
Be committed to only one business idea that you plan to develop. Able to attend all sessions. Eligible BCC graduates who complete the course and furnish a completed business plan are invited to apply for the WBDC Launch Pad Grant*. This offers newly established businesses the opportunity to receive a $2,500 grant for start-up costs.​ Applicants must complete an application and participate in a pitch competition. A panel of judges determines grant awardees. More details and eligibility requirements can be found here:LaunchPad Grant Program
Fee:$149 – Regular
*Reduced fee scholarship is available(Household size and Income must be shared)
Please complete the applicationhere!!

Do you have a question about applying for a business loan? Join Samantha Cross and Tanya Kelley, WBDC’s Access To Capital Advisors to get your questions answered and discover your business loan options. You can stay for the whole time or only a few minutes. We’re here for you!

This class is for anyone wanting to start a business in Connecticut. We’ll walk you through the whole process, from understanding business entity types and writing your business plan to exploring business viability, learning about financing options, and registering it with the state and federal government. You’ll learn about the considerations you need to make if you plan to hire employees.By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of the steps you need to take to turn your business idea into reality.

New to the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC)?
Have you used our services but want to know what else we can help with?
Come learn about the resources we offer to small businesses – most of which are offered at no cost. Join WBDC’s Concilia Ndlovu,Taylor Bergeron and Sonique Solis to find out how to get started. We have something for individuals at all stages of business – entrepreneurial and financial education services, grants, promotional and community-building opportunities, and much more! Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, are looking to expand your business skills, or are ready to scale, WBDC can help drive your success in a tangible and accessible way.

Fast-track your QBO expertise— one class, two hours, zero stress.
This QuickBooks Online Refresher Class is for small business owners who have actively used QuickBooks Online (QBO) within the last six months and have completed all of the following
Purchased an active QBO subscription (any plan) Successfully linked your bank and/or credit card accounts to QBO. Categorized at least one or two transactions in QBO. Join Tanya Kelley, WBDC Business Advisor, for a QuickBooks refresher to brush up on the steps you may have overlooked. In this hands-on session, we’ll cover how to:
Record sales and receive payments
Categorize expenses accurately
Generate essential financial reports
Reconcile bank and credit card accounts

A high-impact half-day event designed to sparkmeaningful connections, deliver expert-led business education, and spotlight rising small business leaders.Entrepreneurs will walk away with new connections, valuable insights, and inspiration to take their business to the next level​.Featuring our Accelerate Pitch Competition where WBDC clients compete to win $25,000 grants.
Learn more at ctwbdc.org/events/catalyst-2025
This event is registration only. No refunds.

This course is designed strictly for aspiring entrepreneurs that are in the pre-venture stage.
Gain a clear understanding of business building fundamentals and emerge from this class with a solid blueprint firmly in hand. Turn your business idea into a well thought-out road map for your venture. This 8-session course is taught virtually by industry experts in a dynamic peer-to-peer environment and is supported by online tools and decision worksheets to guide you every step of the way.
Mondays and Wednesdays: October 6, 8, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29, Nov 3(skipping Oct 13 for Indigenous Peoples’ Day)
12:00pm – 2:00pm
Application Due Date: Friday, September 25
Prerequisites:
Be committed to only one business idea that you plan to develop. Able to attend all sessions. Eligible BCC graduates who complete the course and furnish a completed business plan are invited to apply for the WBDC Launch Pad Grant*. This offers newly established businesses the opportunity to receive a $2,500 grant for start-up costs.​ Applicants must complete an application and participate in a pitch competition. A panel of judges determines grant awardees. More details and eligibility requirements can be found here:LaunchPad Grant Program
Fee:$149 – Regular
*Reduced fee scholarship is available(Household size and Income must be shared)
Apply Here!!!

Join Sherry Konwerski, WBDC Business Advisor and CertifiedQuickBooksPro Advisor, for a3-parthands-oncourse to learn how to manage your business finances withQuickBooks. In thisseries, you’ll learn a broad range of bookkeeping functions, from setting upQuickBooks, to handling money in/money out, banking, payroll, and much more. If you’ve decided to useQuickbooksOnlineto manage your business finances but need help getting started, thisclass is for you!
Thisseriesis designed for business owners with 1+ years of sales. You must have aQuickBooksOnlineaccount to attend this class. A trial account is sufficient.
Dates:Fridays: November 7, 14, 21
Time: 12:00pm – 1:30pm

Join Sherry Konwerski, WBDC Business Advisor and QuickBooks Pro Advisor, for a general overview of QuickBooks Online. Learn the basic features and functionality of this tool and determine if it is the best solution for your needs. This class is recommended for those who aren’t familiar with bookkeeping or accounting

Do you have employees? Are you hoping to hire employees? Join us to learn important information about how to avoid legal challenges when hiring.
Even well-intentioned small businesses can stumble into costly legal trouble. This session will spotlight the most common – and avoidable – employment law missteps, from hiring practices to terminations. Learn how to identify and avoid red flags to stay compliant.
Instructor Bios:
Paula Anthony is an experienced employment attorney and Office Managing Shareholder at Littler’s New Haven office. She regularly advises employers on a wide range of workplace issues, including discrimination and retaliation claims, wage and hour compliance, and workplace leaves and accommodations. She works closely with employers to craft clear policies and navigate tricky HR issues.
Paula brings strong expertise in employment litigation and workplace investigations, with valuable experience across both the private and public sectors. She’s also a frequent speaker on employment topics and enjoys working with WBDC to empower women entrepreneurs with practical legal insights that help them lead with confidence.
Nicole S. Muléis Of Counsel in Littler’s New Haven office, where she focuses on employment litigation in federal and state courts. Her practice spans claims involving discrimination, harassment, leave management, wage and hour issues, and restrictive covenants. Drawing on her prior experience managing business operations and working with executive leadership, Nicole brings a strategic perspective to counseling employers. She serves on the Board of the Hartford Marathon Foundation and is President of the Western New England School of Law Alumni Board. Nicole is also the daughter of an entrepreneur, which shaped her appreciation for the challenges business owners face and the value of resources like those offered by the WBDC.

Join WBDC to meet and mingle with fellow entrepreneurs and WBDC team members bright and early! We’ll provide light snacks and coffee – additional food and specialty drinks will be available for purchase.Meet us on Bank Street at Tox Brewing Company for coffee and pastriesand the opportunity to connect in person and share ideas and inspiration with fellow community members.

Join WBDC for an opportunity to meet and mingle with the WBDC community of CT-based small business owners and the WBDC team! We’ll provide light snacks and refreshments, and offer ample opportunities to connect in personand share ideas with fellow entrepreneurs

Join WBDC for an opportunity to meet and mingle with the WBDC community of CT-based small business owners and the WBDC team! We’ll provide light snacks and coffee, and offer ample opportunities to connect in personand share ideas with fellow entrepreneurs.

Join WBDC to meet and mingle with fellow entrepreneurs and WBDC team members. We’ll provide light snacks and coffee – additional food and specialty drinks will be available for purchase.Meet us at WBDC office in downtown Hartford at 190 Trumbull Street, Hartford, CT (2nd Floor) for delicious food and the opportunity to connect in person and share ideas and inspiration with fellow community members. Please kindly note that we dont validate parking but Downtown Hartford has many paid parking garages and lots as well as metered street parking.

Parking Instructions:
On-Site and Nearby Parking:
190 Trumbull Street (event location): On-site paid parking available (675 spaces)
Church Street Garage – 200 Church Street
Morgan Street Lot – 154 Talcott Street / 1000 Main Street (0.3 miles)
Pratt Street Lot – 66-70 Asylum St (0.1 miles)
A & A Lot – 300 Asylum St (0.2 miles)

Do you have a question about applying for a business loan? Join Samantha Cross and Tanya Kelley, WBDC’s Access To Capital Advisors to get your questions answered and discover your business loan options. You can stay for the whole time or only a few minutes. We’re here for you!

Do you have a question about applying for a business loan? Join Samantha Cross and Tanya Kelley, WBDC’s Access To Capital Advisors to get your questions answered and discover your business loan options. You can stay for the whole time or only a few minutes. We’re here for you!

Do you have a question about applying for a business loan? Join Samantha Cross and Tanya Kelley, WBDC’s Access To Capital Advisors to get your questions answered and discover your business loan options. You can stay for the whole time or only a few minutes. We’re here for you!

This interactive class helps entrepreneurs and small business owners identify what their customers truly want and need. Participants will learn practical tools to gather customer feedback, analyze buying behaviors, and translate insights into products or services that add value. By the end of the session, you will have a clearer understanding of your target market and strategies to meet customer expectations effectively.

This class provides an overview of the essential functions that keep a business running smoothly. Participants will explore topics such as day-to-day management, workflow processes, staffing, and resource allocation. By the end of the session, you will understand how to build efficient systems that support growth and long-term success.

Descripción:
Este curso de 8 sesiones se imparte virtualmente por expertos del sector en un entorno dinámico de aprendizaje entre compañeros, con el apoyo de herramientas en línea y hojas de trabajo para guiarte en cada paso del proceso.
Revisaremos conceptos relacionados con la mecánica de iniciar un negocio, cómo convertir su idea en un negocio, tipos de entidades legales, el impacto de su puntaje de crédito, financiamiento de su negocio, estados financieros, impuestos, precios, proyecciones, marketing, becas (subvenciones) y redacción de un plan de negocios.
Cronograma:
martes y jueves, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 y 30 de octubre.
5:30pm – 7:30pm
Fecha límite de solicitud: 25 de septiembre.
Requisitos previos:
1. Estar comprometido con una o varias ideas de negocio que planee desarrollar.
2. Poder asistir a lamayoría delas sesiones y completar las tareasdespués de cada clase.
Subvenciones ycréditos de educación continua
Los graduados elegibles (que no están en el negocio del cuidado infantil) que completen el curso y presenten un plan de negocios completo están invitados a solicitar una beca WBDC Launch Pad*. Esta beca ofrece a las empresas recién creadas la oportunidad de recibir una subvención de $2,500 para gastos iniciales, sin reembolso. Los solicitantes deben completar una solicitud y participar en un concurso de presentaciones. Un jurado determinará a los beneficiarios de la beca.
Cuidado infantil: Aquellos que se gradúen y hayan asistido a todas las clases y completado todas las tareas serán elegibles para créditos de educación continua.
Costo del curso:
$149 – Regular – Hay becas con descuento del 50% (debe indicar el tamaño de su hogar y los ingresos en la solicitud).Si desea una tarifa reducida, comuníquese con Pat Klapper para compartir el tamaño de su hogar y sus ingresos. pklapper@ctwbdc.org.
Los propietarios de empresas de cuidado infantil no pagan ninguna tarifa.
NOTA: La admisión al programa no garantiza la inscripción. La inscripción se otorga por orden de llegada y no será válida hasta que WBDC reciba el pago.

Do You Own a Business in Waterbury? Or know someone who does? This event is for you!
Join us in person or online to learn about the Waterbury/WBDC Small Business Grant Program.
This program is designed to support the growth of businesses located in the City of Waterbury, Connecticut. Eligible businesses may receive grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 for well-defined projects that will create measurable impact on business growth and profitability.
At this information session, you’ll learn:
The application process and eligibility requirements How to effectively answer application questions Key details to strengthen your application There will also be time for Q&A — plus refreshments will be served!

Are you new to Microsoft Excel and want to learn more about how to use it for your business? Join us to learn how to fill in an existing Excel worksheet (e.g., financial template), create a table, create basic formulas, adjust the formatting of your worksheet, and more. Find out how Excel can be used to create a budget, track your income & expenses, and show you trends in your business. Bring your questions to the session!
Please note, this class is for beginners that are not very familiar with Excel.If you use Google Sheets instead, the concepts are similar, and may be valuable to you.

Tienes una gran idea para un nuevo negocio? Venga a aprender como evaluar su idea para asegurarse de que sea un concepto de negocio viable. Estara espuesto a los elementos a considerar para establecer su negocio. Nuestro asesor commercial le brindara sugerencias para comenzar con su idea.
Esta clase esta disenada para aquellos que estan al principio de su viaje empresarial. La clase es interactive donde se le invitara a compartir brevemente su idea de negocio.

Talking with parents about money can be very stressful. That is why is important to have good payment policies and effective ways of communicating them. During this session, we will discuss draftingpayment policies that will increaseyourcash flowand improveyour ability to budget.
Instructor Bio:Linda Fecteau is a WBDC Business Advisor dedicated to helping Early Childhood Education and Care Programs enhance their business practices. As a founder and former owner of a multi-site Early Childhood Education operation, Linda now uses her expertise to consult with other child care programs and small businesses. Linda assists providers as they develop and implement fiscal policies and practices that save time and money. She was also the lead instructor for Administration and Supervision of Early Childhood Programs for Charter Oak State College.