Vea la grabacion de esta sesión de una hora para explorar cómo puede implementar las mejores prácticas bancarias para su negocio.
Los banqueros brindan administración de efectivo, procesamiento comercial y otros servicios valiosos, no solo a alguien con quien habla cuando necesita financiamiento.
Esta sesión cubrirá formas de construir una relación con su banquero, brindará la visión del banquero sobre cómo trabajar con su empresa y utilizará herramientas para que pueda tomar medidas para mejorar su banca comercial. Obtenga información sobre cómo puede prepararse para implementar su mejor estrategia comercial.

El primer trimestre del año suele ser cuando la preparación de la temporada de impuestos se calienta para las empresas. Hay papeleo que organizar, con el objetivo de crear un retorno que sea preciso y que no tenga sorpresas financieras para su negocio. Únase a Sarah Watson, CPA, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, para obtener algunos consejos rápidos que lo ayudarán a prepararse y mantenerse al tanto del papeleo que llega rápido y furioso a principios de año.

Run time: –
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructors:Sarah Watson, CPA and Sherry Konwerski, WBDC

Well-renowned business author and marketing extraordinaire Seth Godin wrote “[in business] everything else will take care of itself if you focus on getting better clients.”That is true. But… how exactly do you get better clients?
It’s a problem that plagues all businesses, yet it’s more prevalent among startups, freelancers, solopreneurs, and small businesses of all kinds.
JoinHelena Escalante, a marketing strategy expert, certified copywriter, and content creator to learn21 easy and different types of content you can create to:
Send the tire-kickers away for good Make prospects —with the funds to pay you—self-select and contact you Start building your authority to be recognized as an expert in your niche (experts always command higher prices) And so much more… Run time: -51 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Helena Escalante

Are you up on the ever-changing landscape of labor and employment laws?Join us as we chat with Employment and Labor Attorney, Jennie Woltz to discuss the 5 areas of labor and employment law that you need to know about.
Child Care Providers, please note:this program is designed for centers with 3 employees or more.
Run time: – 48 Minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Jennie Woltz,Woltz & Folkinshteyn, P.C.

Does your website really reflect who you are and what you do? Is it communicating the right message? Take advantage of this discussion led by Michelle Blais to learn how your website can help you grow your business. Run time: 48 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Michelle Blaise, Michelle Blais Design
Michelle works with entrepeneurs and small business owners toquickly and easily create content, images, and designto develop custom websites that will attract customers and grow businesses.

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 Samantha Cross, Business Advisor to hear potential sources of capital for entrepreneurs.
Topics include:Credit scoreBank loans – Personal loans – CT boostPresale/ early investmentSelf funding – Friends and family
Run time: – 39 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Samantha Cross, WBDC

Esta clase será en español
Únase a Zayed Rodríguez, asesor de negocios de WBDC para una sesión práctica para aprender a administrar las finanzas de su empresa con QuickBooks Self-Employed. Esta versión de QuickBooks funciona mejor para empresas muy pequeñas que no tienen empleados, y procesan todos los ingresos y gastos a través de sus cuentas comerciales o de tarjetas de crédito. Viene con una aplicación móvil para un fácil acceso. Esta es una sesión práctica, donde aprenderá desde la configuración de QuickBooks Self-Employed hasta el manejo de entradas y salidas de dinero, preparación para impuestos y más. Si está pensando en usar QuickBooks para administrar las finanzas de su negocio, realizar un mejor seguimiento de sus ingresos y gastos, y/o saber a donde se va nuestro dinero, ¡esta clase es para usted!
Sobre tu presentador:Zayed Rodriguez, MSc, RICP, es un Asesor Financiero y de Negocios con WBDC. Como emprendedor y dueño de negocio, Zayed entiende lo que conlleva tener un negocio exitoso, en especial tener organizadas nuestras finanzas para poder tener las ganancias que deseamos como dueño de negocio. Él está enfocado en ayudar emprendedores y dueños de negocio a alcanzar las metas financieras de su negocio y de sus vidas.
Run time: – 82 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC, lo que le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo, en su horario.

Business-to-business marketing is different than direct-to-consumer marketing – business clients speak a different language than consumers, and are found in different places. While you might have luck with Instagram and email for selling products and services directly to consumers, you would be better served using LinkedIn and local networking events to make inroads with business clients.
Join Jo Bloom to learn how to target your business marketing strategies and channels to reach key decision-makers, create meaningful lead generation tools and develop content that will support your goals.
With nearly 15 years of experience in strategy, operations and marketing from start-ups to established financial services, Jo has a passion for translating data into actionable insights and plans. Jo served as the Chief Operating Officer for a wellness start-up in New York City, growing the business into a multi-location, multi-channel company. Before entering the entrepreneurial world, Jo was a senior executive at UBS Financial Services for 10 years.
Run time: 50 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Jo Bloom

CCMShelps providers to implement business practices, supports efficient operations, budgeting, fee collection and financial reporting.
Run time: 41 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Sonique Solis, WBDC Child Care Case Manager

Branding is an essential component ofsmall business marketing.
The importance of branding in your marketing strategy can’t be overstated. Your brand influences every aspect of your customers’ perceptions of your company. Branding builds trust, recognition, loyalty and reputation. It also creates market differentiation and positions businesses of all sizes for success.
In this session, we’ll take a close look at what branding means for small businesses and how you can create a brand strategy that will set you apart from the competition. We’ll look at real-world case studies and apply them to your enterprise. This hands-on, virtual workshop will give you the understanding and tools you need to position your business in new and important ways.
Run time: 66 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor bio:Lyn Chamberlin specializes in strategic communications and reputation management.She works with her clients to develop the communicationsstrategies they need to significantly expand their visibility andimpact.
Lyn has held senior leadership positions throughout her career, acting as chief spokesperson for the institutions she represents, overseeing all branding, advertising, public relations, and public affairs initiatives.She was the founder and chief operating officer of skyePR, a brand consultancy in Boston, advising companies such as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Polaroid, IDG, Navigant Consulting, and Technology Review Magazine, as well as numerous emerging technology start-ups and small businesses.

As a small business owner, having a unique brand that differentiates you from your competition is very important, but how do you develop yours into one that tells the story of your company?Join Nancy in this webinar to understand what make a brand unique and successful. Learn the difference between a logo and a brand, and how taglines can help you communicate your promise to your customers.
Run time: 39 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Nancy Ruzow is the founder of Ruzow Graphics, Inc., a small and mighty graphic design firm located in Westport, CT and New York City.

Interested in applying for a grant for your small business, but unsure how to get started? Join us foran information session to answer your questions about the grant application process.In addition, participants will have access to a free resource guide compiled by Chelsea Groton Bank to regional and national grants that are available.
Run time:57 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Wendy Vincent, Eastern CT Program Manager, WBDC

Meet Business Advisor Carol Cheswick. Explore business Plan writing and the benefits of having a business plan.
Run time: 8 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Please visit thislinkfor instructor bios.

Join WBDC for a new class to discuss how to calculate your cost of care by examining your pricing, profit, and projections. Learn how to find your break-even point to better set prices and work towards increasing your profit. Leave with practical guidance to create your annual budget.
Run time: – 53 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructors:Linda Fecteau, WBDC Business Advisor & Early Childhood Expert
Tanya Kelley, WBDC Business Advisor & Financial Expert

Join WBDC for a new class to discuss how to calculate your cost of care by examining your pricing, profit, and projections. Learn how to find your break-even point to better set prices and work towards increasing your profit. Leave with practical guidance to create your annual budget.
Run time: – 45 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructors:Linda Fecteau, WBDC Business Advisor & Early Childhood Expert

Preparing for life’s disasters can be easier with the right business insurance.Join CherylPlawecki from Bouvier Insurance to discuss insuring your child care business. Find out what kind of coverage(s) meets your needs, and how it is different than your Building, Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance. This program is open to child care centers, group homes, and family homes.
Run time: 39 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Cheryl Plawecki, Bouvier Insurance

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 discuss draftingpayment policies that will increaseyourcash flowand improveyour ability to budget.
Run time:41 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
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 is also the lead instructor for Administration and Supervision of Early Childhood Programs for Charter Oak State College.

If you are a Connecticut OEC-licensed or aspiring child care provider interested in applying for WBDC’s Child Care Start-up, Expansion, or Emergency Facilities Grant programs, we invite you to join this session to get guidance on preparing your historical & current financial statements, as well as your financial projections. This session will walk you through gathering your financials and filling out the WBDC financial templates (or using your own!).
Additional individualized support is available through a meeting with a WBDC Business Advisor.
NOTE: Those not applying for a grant currently are still welcome to take this class, as the concepts are universal for child care providers.
Run time: -1 hour
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Tanya Kelley, WBDC

Si usted es un aspirante a proveedor de cuidado infantil con licencia de la OEC de Connecticut y está interesado en solicitar los programas de subvención para inicio, expansión o instalaciones de emergencia de cuidado infantil de WBDC, lo invitamos a unirse a esta sesión para obtener orientación sobre cómo preparar sus estados financieros históricos y actuales. , así como sus proyecciones financieras. Esta sesión lo guiará a través de la recopilación de sus finanzas y el llenado de las plantillas financieras de la WBDC (¡o utilizando las suyas propias!).
Se encuentra disponible apoyo individualizado adicional a través de una reunión con un asesor comercial de WBDC.
NOTA: Aquellos que actualmente no solicitan una subvención aún pueden tomar esta clase, ya que los conceptos son universales para los proveedores de cuidado infantil.
Tiempo de ejecución:1 hora 29 minutos
eLearning: Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructor: Zayed Rodrigues, WBDC

This is a recording of the 5/20/21 session geared at eligible child care providers with program staff that are planning to apply forOEC’s Child Care Stabilization Funding. WBDC Business Advisor Sherry Konwerski goes over the components of staff compensation including bonuses, wage increases, health care insurance costs, retirement, educational advancement, tuition reimbursement, and child care costs, and how it can benefit your employees and your business.
This recording covers the considerations for developing your staff compensation plan in an equitable and sustainable manner, while following the guidelines of the stabilization funding.

Are you considering insuring your business, but don’t know where to start? Join Operations and Risk Management Consultant Meredith Messenger to talk about how to minimize risk to your business by choosing the right insurance program.
Run time:- 57 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Meredith has spent almost two decades in the insurance and operations industries. She spent much of that in corporate America as an Operations Consultant and Executive Leader with teams ranging from 3 to 25+. Leveraging this experience, she launched InsureGood and began helping scaling businesses avoid common pitfalls, pain points, and risks within their scaling businesses. Her specialty is helping CEOs build the foundation needed for lasting success through effective operations and risk management.

Join WBDC’s Business Advisor, Samantha Cross, as we explore personal credit scores and the steps you can take to get your financial house in order. Whether you’re starting a business or already operating one, this session will help you understand the effects of personal finances on business finances and give you practical tips for improving your credit score.
Run time: – 47 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Samantha Cross, WBDC Financial Education Advisor

Think your business is too small to be concerned about cyber security? Think again! Typically, we only hear about data breaches at huge corporations, but the truth is most businesses that are hacked are small. Find out how you can tell if your business is vulnerable and get tips on how to make it more secure.
Run time: 52 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Since founding U.S. Computer Connection in 1987, Garry Feldman has dedicated his career to helping his customers overcome their unique challenges. Garry is known for best practice solutions that balance customer needs and industry standards. He is also experienced in directing strategic and tactical deployment of large-scale operations, with a focus on engaging all employees in performance-enhancing behaviors.

Unlock the secrets of successful selling in this dynamic and insightful class designed to unravel the complexities of the sales process. This course provides a simple strategy for individuals and businesses looking to create an effective sales system. Students will gain valuable insights into sales strategies, techniques, and best practices, making it an essential resource for anyone seeking to enhance their sales skills and drive business growth.
Run time: 48 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Grace Napolitano has had a 20+ year career in media sales, leading teams to sell multi-million dollars in ad revenue. She loves sales and wants all women business owners to fall in love with sales to reach their businesses’ full potential!.

Stay agile by staying digital.
WBDC’s Sonique Solis guides you through an information session on digitizing your receipts. Learn how to take the first step in managing your personal and business receipts, and get ready for tax season by organizing your receipts for yourself or your bookkeeper.Explore tools and applications to effectively capture your receipts and other important financial documents. Reduce printing costs and discuss the pros and cons of going digital. Learn easy-to-use fundamental skills to keep you organized and determine if this is the next step for you.
Run time: – 44 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Sonique Solis, WBDC

Join WBDC and our special guests from HEDCO, Connecticut Economic Development Foundation (CEDF), Webster Bank and JPM Chase Bank to learn about opportunities for attaining the funds you need for your business. Gain an understanding of traditional and non-traditional lenders, alternative loan sources, and the requirements you need to qualify.
Run time: – 66 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Kenyetta Banks, Facilitator
Panel:
Michael Traynor, Webster BankRicardo Vidal, CEDF
Luis Gavilanes, JPMorgan Chase

Knowing your competition is key to the success of your business. Who else is selling a similar product or service? What makes your product or service better? Identifying your competitors is the first step in differentiating your business. Join Michele Svirsky, WBDC Business Advisor, to learn how to do a simple competitive analysis so you can stand out from the crowd.
Run time: – 43 Minuutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor Bio:Michele Svirsky is a WBDC Business Advisor who works with small business owners on developing marketing strategies, enhancing messaging, identifying target markets, and engaging the different channels to help promote each business’s products and services.Michele brings over 25 years of marketing experience working with both corporations and advertising agencies. She has worked in marketing in the consumer packaged goods, entertainment, hospitality and non-profit industries.

Join executive coach Melissa O’Hara, owner of O’Hara Solutions group, to explore how you can delegate effectively to empower your team and increase productivity. This session will cover ways to communicate expectation, engage your staff for growth, and provide tools for taking action. Invest time to consider how you and your team can work together to build professional and company impact. Gain insights for how you can prepare for these conversations and delve into contributing factors for your bottom line to implement your best business strategy! Whether you are working with employees or contractors, learn why delegating is important to the success of your business.

Run time: – 52 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Melissa O’Hara, Owner, O’Hara Solutions

This is the second session of a series on How to Hire.
Find the first session here:Finding and Attracting Job Candidates.
When it comes to hiring the first employee or the 50th, many companies struggle to identify, attract, and hire the people needed to help the business grow. You’ll learn how to tell your company’s story to attract job candidates, build a hiring process that selects for best-fit hires, and set new teammates up for success in their role. This series is helpful whether you’re actively hiring or planning to grow your team at some point in the future.
Effective Interviewing for Hiring with Confidence
Confidently select the best candidates for your business by mastering the art of effective interviewing. Missy Lafferty from Beam Talent will share how to use structured interviews to uncover a candidate’s true potential, build a team that aligns with your company’s vision, and elevate your team culture. Acquire expert tips on asking the right questions, gauging behavioral responses, and making informed hiring decisions.
Run time: 43 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Missy Laffertyhas over 15 years of business experience in global media, technology, and financial services companies, serving roles in strategy, operations, and talent acquisition. She has built her career helping industry-leading firms hire in competitive markets and use data to make more informed hiring decisions. Missy previously held roles at Bloomberg and Greenhouse Software, and currently leads Beam Talent, an award-winning talent advisory practice, helping business leaders grow and develop top talent and build high-performing teams. Outside of work, Missy stays busy with her two small children and enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local community.

Unlock the potential of one of the most influential tools in the digital marketing arsenal with our “Introduction to Email Marketing” class, taught by Annya White-Brown, WBDC’s Marketing Business Advisor.
This comprehensive class is designed for beginners, providing you with a solid foundation in email marketing essentials. Discover the various email marketing platforms, how to create captivating email campaigns, connect with your audience, and achieve measurable results. From crafting engaging content to navigating the intricacies of list management, automation, and analytics, this course equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to harness the full potential of email marketing.

Class Highlights:

Learn the Essentials: This class is designed for beginners, so you’ll start with the basics. Understand the anatomy of an email, email platforms, the importance of a strong subject line, and the power of compelling content. Audience Segmentation: Discover the art of audience segmentation and how it can supercharge your email campaigns. Send the right message to the right people at the right time. Metrics That Matter: Get comfortable with email analytics. Learn how to track open rates, click-through rates, conversions, and other vital metrics to measure the success of your campaigns. Automation & Personalization: Dive into the world of email automation and personalization. Craft emails that feel tailor-made for each recipient, even when you’re reaching thousands. Best Practices: Uncover industry best practices, from avoiding the spam folder to crafting mobile-responsive emails. We’ll also discuss legal and ethical considerations in email marketing. Building Your List: Explore strategies for growing your email list organically and ethically. A quality list is the foundation of successful email marketing

Run time: -44 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Annya White-Brown, WBDC Marketing Business Advisor.

Join Robin Imbrogno, Founder of the Human Resource Consulting Group, to learn best practices for hiring, retaining, and supervising staff. Robin is a recognized leader in the business community as a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), The American Payroll Association (APA), The Independent Payroll Providers Association (IPPA,) The Payroll Group (TPG) as Secretary on the Board of Directors, and a former recipient of the Association for Women in Communications award (WIC).
Run time:55 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Robin Imbrogno, Human Resource Consulting Group

Etsy or Shopify – Which One Is Right for Me?
Whether you are newly formed or an established business, your company can thrive on either platform. Join Debra Lutsky, founder of Digital Retail Partners to provide insight into the world of eCommerce and whether Shopify or Etsy are right for you.
What You’ll Learn:
• Understanding of each platform• Business types that do well with Etsy• Business types that do well with Shopify• Migrating from Etsy to Shopify• Foundations of marketing for each platform
Run time: 43 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Debra Lutsky founded Digital Retail Partners in 2015 with her extensive background in traditional graphic design and development. Digital Retail Partners is an integrated design and development company specializing in D2C and eCommerce brands. She saw the shift early on in traditional retail and focused her efforts on learning Shopify, one of the world’s largest eCommerce platforms. Debra joined the ranks of the few individuals in the region to become a certified expert in its use. She works with businesses all over the world but especially enjoys supporting start-ups. Debra was honored in 2018 with the Women Rising Award by the WBDC.

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 workbook, 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.
Please note, this class is for beginners that are not very familiar with Excel.
Run time: – 44 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructors:Louise Lisboa and Nicole O’Brien, WBDC

Are you receiving inquiries from international buyers? Have you thought about selling your product or service internationally and don’t know where to start?
Come join U.S. Commercial Service Director Melissa Grosso and International Trade Specialist Jacqui Torcellini to learn about the counseling and export assistance provided by the U.S. Commercial Service (USCS). The US CS is a federal agency, whose sole mission is to support U.S. based companies with international exporting. Learn more about the services offered through the USCS and considerations for entering international markets.
Run time:41 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructors:Jacqui Torcellini and Melissa Grosso, US Commercial Service

Calculating your time-space percentage is an essential part of managing your family childcare home. Join Tanya Kelley as she reviews why this percentage is important and how to calculate it.
Run time: 40 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Tanya Kelley, WBDC Business Advisor

This is the first session of a series on How to Hire.
When it comes to hiring the first employee or the 50th, many companies struggle to identify, attract, and hire the people needed to help the business grow. You’ll learn how to tell your company’s story to attract job candidates, build a hiring process that selects for best-fit hires, and set new teammates up for success in their role. This series is helpful whether you’re actively hiring or planning to grow your team at some point in the future.
Finding & Attracting Job Candidates
In this seminar, the first in a series of three sessions, Missy Lafferty of Beam Talent will share actionable steps for confidently hiring and growing a team.Unlock the secrets to sourcing and attracting top-notch talent in the competitive job market. This session will equip you with creative strategies and insights to attract great job candidates for your growing company. Discover how to craft an irresistible employer brand, leverage technology for optimal outreach, and spot the right fit beyond qualifications.

Run time:45 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Missy Laffertyhas over 15 years of business experience in global media, technology, and financial services companies, serving roles in strategy, operations, and talent acquisition. She has built her career helping industry-leading firms hire in competitive markets and use data to make more informed hiring decisions. Missy previously held roles at Bloomberg and Greenhouse Software, and currently leads Beam Talent, an award-winning talent advisory practice, helping business leaders grow and develop top talent and build high-performing teams. Outside of work, Missy stays busy with her two small children and enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local community.

Does your marketing strategy feel like you’re just throwing spaghetti at a wall to see what sticks? The best way to see results from your marketing efforts is to create a plan. Join Johanna Bloom, WBDC’s Marketing Business Advisor, to learn how to reach your customers more effectively. She will guide you on defining your target market, identifying your ideal client, and building marketing and segmentation strategies to attract and retain these customers. This class will be interactive with opportunities to gain feedback and inspiration from other entrepreneurs and our WBDC team.
Run time: – 48 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Jo Bloom, WBDC Marketing Business Advisor

Canva can be a powerful tool to design beautiful graphics and visuals for your business, and many features are free! Learn how to get started with this platform and how to create eye-catching visuals to elevate your business.
Run time: – 51 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Michelle Blais has worked as an in-house corporate graphic artist, on staff at advertising agencies, and since 2000, has been operating her own graphic andwebsite design business. Michelle works with entrepreneurs and small business owners to create branding, marketing and websites with a clear message, engaging imagery and a professional design that easily connects with their customers and grows their business.

Are you a manufacturer? Do you manufacture food, clothing, soap, gadgets, widgets or another product? Join to learn about grant programs for Connecticut manufacturers. If you want to expand, improve productivity or efficiency, upskill your existing staff or hire an apprentice, you may be able to get grant money from the state of Connecticut.Join us to learnabout the different programs and the applicationprocess from Paul Lavoie, Chief Manufacturing Officer from DECD.
Run time: – 49 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Paul Lavoie, DECD

Whether you’re starting a business or already operating one, this session will help you understand the effects of personal finances on business finances, and give you practical tips for improving your credit score. Join WBDC’s Business Advisor, Samantha Cross, as she explains personal credit scores and the steps you can take to get your financial house in order.
Run time: 46 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Samantha Cross, WBDC

Digital marketing and social media are common terms that are widely used. Many businesses are looking at ways to implement and adopt digital marketing and social media – and feel they are “must dos” for success.
However, for small businesses what is the value of digital marketing and social media? What is the right mix of media and which channels will prove most effective? What is clear is that “one size” might not fit all businesses and there might be different approaches depending on the customer’s demographics.
Join Ramon Peralta to learn about branding, digital marketing and social media, how and when to adopt such media and particularly what is the right mix for different type of businesses.
Run time: 48 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:
TED Speaker and Author ofLaunch Your Brand, Ramon Peralta holds a BFA in Visual Arts and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bridgeport. A Tuck Executive Business MBE Alumni, he developed a passion for entrepreneurship and launching brands after serving as Senior Art Director on the original start-up team behind Priceline.com.
Today, Ramon proudly leads the multicultural, multi-disciplined, loyal flight crew at Peralta Design, personally ensuring that the desired ‘look & feel’ of every project launch sequence is communicated consistently across the entire brand’s digital footprint; whether it be a website, video, social campaign, digital strategy or printed marketing materials.

Do you want to increase your enrollment and be sure you remain full going forward? Want to learn how engaging with your community can impact enrollment?
Join Linda Fecteau to discuss ways to engage with your community, boost enrollment, and ensure sustainability. Participants of this classwill walk away with at least ten ideas to engage with their community and increase enrollment.
Child care providers are an essential part of any community. However, many community members do not know about the important work that you do. Making the community aware is the key to making sure your business is thriving through full enrollment.
Run time: 40 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Linda Fecteau, WBDC Child Care Program Manager

What has your website done for you lately? A website is more than pretty design and branding. It should clearly explain the value of your business, generate customer leads and make you money. WBDC Business Advisor Joy Braddock takes you through a step-by-step framework to help you build a SIMPLE but highly EFFECTIVE website. Learn how to capture visitors’ attention in seconds, drive your users down a sales funnel, build leads and reviews, and understand the backend data points you need to optimize your site.
Run time: 47 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Joy Braddockbrings with her almost a decade of experience as a small business owner, and over 20 years’ experience in marketing and advertising.As the co-owner of a local CT 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.

Have you ever wondered if you could charge parents more than what Care4Kids (C4K) tells you to? In this class, we will discuss how C4K subsidies work, and what it tells you regarding parent fees. We will look at different examples of how you can maximize your income using parent fees and C4K subsidies, while remaining competitive in the market place.
Run time:70 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Zayed Rodriguez MSc, RICP, is a financial advisor specialized in retirement, and a business advisor at WBDC. An entrepreneur and business owner himself, Zayed understands the how important it is to find the right price for our services and/or products, in order to have a successful business.

WBDC Business Advisor Tanya Kelley, guides you through how to track business income and expenses by using simple tables, charts and pivot tables inExcel. During this session, you’ll get hands-on, practical experience working in Excel, to be able to use in your business.
Run time:56 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Tanya Kelley, WBDC click here for bio.

Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) está ofreciendo subvenciones para empresas de cuidado infantil calificadas en Connecticut a través de su Child Care Business Opportunity Fund. El Fondo de Oportunidades está diseñado para ayudar a que crezcan las empresas de cuidado infantil con licencia y aspirantes. El Fondo tiene programas de subvenciones dirigidos a diferentes etapas de la empresa, desde la puesta en marcha hasta las que están listas para expandir su negocio. ¡Las solicitudes de subvenciones ya están abiertas!
La sesión de información cubrirá los requisitos de elegibilidad, para qué se puede utilizar la subvención y el proceso de solicitud ycómo prepararse para aplicar.

Run time:120 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructora Bio:Zayed Rodriguez, WBDC

This short video offers a clear and efficient walkthrough of the grant application process, covering key sections and providing tips to ensure accuracy and completeness, whether you’re new to applying or just need a refresher.
Run time:9 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Sonique Solis, WBDC Child Care Grant Coordinator

If you are a Connecticut OEC-licensed or aspiring child care provider interested in applying for WBDC’s Child Care Start-up, Emergency Facilities, or Expansion Grant programs, we invite you to join this session to get guidance on preparing your use of funds narrative and supporting documents. This session will help you consider what relevant projects or expenses you may have for your child care business,how it will benefit your business, and how to gather the backup documents to support your project idea. Run time: – 57 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Linda Fecteau, WBDC Child Care Business Advisor; Sonique Solis, WBDC Child Care Grant Coordinator

Preparación para la subvención de cuidado infantil: uso de fondos y documentos de respaldo
Esta sesión está abierta a los asistentes a nuestra sesión de información sobre subvenciones para empresas de cuidado infantil del WBDC.
Si usted es un proveedor de cuidado infantil con licencia OEC de Connecticut o aspirante a proveedor de cuidado infantil interesado en solicitar los programas de subvención de expansión, instalaciones de emergencia o puesta en marcha de cuidado infantil de WBDC, lo invitamos a unirse a esta sesión para obtener orientación sobre cómo preparar su descripción del uso de fondos y documentos de respaldo. Esta sesión lo ayudará a considerar qué proyectos o gastos relevantes puede tener para su negocio de cuidado infantil, cómo beneficiará a su negocio y cómo reunir los documentos de respaldo para respaldar su idea de proyecto.
Run time: – 57 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Linda Fecteau, WBDC Child Care Business Advisor; Sonique Solis, WBDC Child Care Grant Coordinator

La temporada de impuestos ya está aquí. ¿Estás listo? Únase a la profesional de impuestos, Nathali Ocampo, para explorar consejos y estrategias fiscales para ayudar a su negocio de cuidado infantil familiar.
Aumente su confianza general en el manejo de asuntos relacionados con impuestos para su negocio de cuidado infantil Ahorre tiempo y dinero entendiendo cómo maximizar las deducciones y los créditos Aprenda a organizar recibos y generar finanzas para su profesional de impuestos. Descripción general de los formularios de impuestos comunes, incluido el Formulario 8829 Run time:76 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructor:Nathali Ocampo, The Nest Agency

Ready to unlock a new level of efficiency to save you time & money?
Join WBDC’s Sonique Solis to take the first step in digitizing your personal and business receipts, and get ready for tax season by organizing them for yourself or your bookkeeper. Whether you have a scanner or just a mobile device, explore tools and applications to effectively capture your receipts and other important financial documents. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of going digital.
Run time:30 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Please visit thislinkfor instructor bios.

“ElevateHER Branding – Strategies for Women on the Rise.” This class is tailored for startup female entrepreneurs ready to embark on a branding journey. Explore key facets of brand development, from defining your unique identity to seamless implementation and the art of evolving your brand while scaling. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights and strategies that will propel your brand to new heights! Save your spot and let’s elevate HER branding together!
Run time: 55 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Tara Meeker is an experienced Creative Director and Integrated Marketing professional with a portfolio that includes Fortune 50/500 and Interbrand Top 100 brands. Tara’s expertise lies in communication design, but she has also been involved in various other areas of marketing including web development branding, advertising, and marketing.
In 2016 Tara founded Star Design Studio on the idea that real success comes from collaborating with clients, not shoe-horning them into a boiler-plate solution. The North Star team collaborates closely with the client from start to finish on every project so they understand the client’s goals and how their work will help them achive sucess.

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.
Run time:44 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Carol Cheswick, WBDC Business Advisor

The business structure you choose influences everything from your day-to-day operations to taxes and how much of your personal assets are at risk. Choosing a structure that provides the right balance of legal protections and benefits is key to starting your business. Join WBDC business advisor Sherry Konwerski as she reviews the pros and cons of common business structures, including sole proprietorships, limited liability companies (LLCs), corporations, and partnerships.
Run time: 38 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Sherry Konwerski, WBDC Business Advisor

Hablar con los padres sobre dinero puede resultar muy estresante. Por eso es importante tener buenas políticas de pago y formas efectivas de comunicarlas. Durante esta sesión, discutiremos la redacción de políticas de pago que aumentarán su flujo de caja, mejorarán su capacidad de presupuestar y le permitirán pagarse a sí mismo con regularidad.
Run time:42 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructor: Zayed Rodriguez, WBDC Business Advisor

If you are a Connecticut OEC-licensed or aspiring child care provider interested in applying for WBDC’s Child Care Start-up, Expansion, or Emergency Facilities Grant programs, we invite you to join this session to get guidance on preparing your historical & current financial statements, as well as your financial projections. This session will walk you through gathering your financials and filling out the WBDC financial templates (or using your own!).
Additional individualized support is available through a meeting with a WBDC Business Advisor.
NOTE: Those not applying for a grant currently are still welcome to take this class, as the concepts are universal for child care providers.
Run time: 1 hour
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Tanya Kelley, WBDC Business Advisor

Si usted es un aspirante a proveedor de cuidado infantil con licencia de la OEC de Connecticut y está interesado en solicitar los programas de subvención para inicio, expansión o instalaciones de emergencia de cuidado infantil de WBDC, lo invitamos a unirse a esta sesión para obtener orientación sobre cómo preparar sus estados financieros históricos y actuales, así como sus proyecciones financieras. Esta sesión lo guiará a través de la recopilación de sus finanzas y el llenado de las plantillas financieras de la WBDC (¡o utilizando las suyas propias!).
Se encuentra disponible apoyo individualizado adicional a través de una reunión con un asesor comercial de WBDC.
NOTA: Aquellos que actualmente no solicitan una subvención aún pueden tomar esta clase, ya que los conceptos son universales para los proveedores de cuidado infantil.
Run time:94 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructora Bio:Zayed Rodriguez, WBDC

Join us as we do a live demo of the grant application portal. Get tips on how to use the portal effectively, from uploading documents, saving your progress, to printing your app.
Run time:54 minutes
Instructor: Zayed Rodriguez, WBDC Business Advisor

In this class, entrepreneurs will learn how to avoid common legal pitfalls when running a business. We’ll cover important topics like partnership agreements, protecting your ideas and inventions, and how to work with contractors. By understanding these common missteps, you’ll gain practical advice to steer clear of costly legal problems and ensure your business stays strong and safe. Whether you’re starting out or growing your company, this class will give you the basics to protect and grow your business smartly.

Run time: 41 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Will Malpica is a partner at Martin LLP, where he focuses on banking and debt finance. He helps lenders and borrowers with different types of loans, especially for smaller businesses involved in acquisitions. Will has experience in financial law from working at big banks like ABN AMRO Bank and The Royal Bank of Scotland.During the pandemic, Will helped clients access government relief programs and close loans under the Main Street Lending Program. He also helped with restructuring loans. Before Martin LLP, Will worked as a legal advisor in investment and commercial banking and at an international law firm, Mayer Brown LLP. He graduated from Fordham University School of Law.

Un sistema de gestion para los negocios cuidado infantil ayuda a los proveedores a implementar prácticas comerciales, respaldando operaciones eficientes, elaboración de presupuestos, cobro de tarifas, informes financieros y comunicación con los padres. Únase al Asesor de Negocios, Zayed Rodriguez del WBDC para obtener una introducción a este software. Descubra cómo puede ayudarle a ahorrar tiempo y dinero en su negocio y facilitar el cobro de pagos de las familias. Saldrá con una comprensión clara de qué es un software de gestion, tendrá una mejor idea de si es adecuado para su negocio y consejos para elegir el sistema que pueda funcionar para usted.
*Esta clase es para administradores de programas (en el hogar y en centros) que actualmente están en el proceso de decidir si implementarán un software de administración de cuidado infantil.*
Run time:70 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructor:Zayed Rodriguez, WBDC Child Care Business Advisor

Parte 1 de 2
Hablar con los padres sobre el dinero puede ser muy estresante. Por eso, es importante tener buenas políticas de pago y formas efectivas de comunicarlas. Durante esta sesión, de la mano de nuestro Asesor de Negocios, Zayed Rodriguez, hablaremos sobre cómo redactar políticas de pago que aumenten tu flujo de caja y mejoren tu capacidad para hacer presupuestos.
Run time:59 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructor: Zayed Rodriguez, WBDC Business Advisor
¿Listo para la segunda parte?Haga clic aquí para registrarse: el enlace se abre en una nueva ventana.

Parte 2 de 2
Hablar con los padres sobre el dinero puede ser muy estresante. Por eso, es importante tener buenas políticas de pago y formas efectivas de comunicarlas. Durante esta sesión, de la mano de nuestro Asesor de Negocios, Zayed Rodriguez, hablaremos sobre cómo redactar políticas de pago que aumenten tu flujo de caja y mejoren tu capacidad para hacer presupuestos.
Run time: 48 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructor: Zayed Rodriguez, WBDC Business Advisor

Join Laura Blake of WBDC to learn how to turn your business idea into a clear, one-page snapshot with the Business Model Canvas. Think of it as the organized, visual version of drafting your idea on a cocktail napkin — but much more detailed and effective. Instead of scribbling disconnected thoughts, the Business Model Canvas helps you map out nine key components of your business in a streamlined, structured way. Perfect for existing small and micro-businesses, this session simplifies the planning process and provides a strong foundation for your business strategy. Plus, if you need extra guidance, WBDC business advisers are available to help you refine and finalize your Business Model Canvas.
Run time: 32 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Laura Blake, WBDC Program Manager

CT Paid Leave is a state administered program that can provide income replacement for workers when they need to take time away from their jobs for qualifying health or family reasons. As a sole-proprietor or self-employed individual, you can benefit from CT Paid Leave as well. Join us to learn what health and family events qualify, who is eligible, how to opt-into the program if you are self-employed, and what the application process entails.
Run time: 42 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Jessica Vargas

This short video offers a clear and efficient walkthrough of the grant application process, covering key sections and providing tips to ensure accuracy and completeness, whether you’re new to applying or just need a refresher.
Run time:9 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Sonique Solis, WBDC Child Care Grant Lead

We’ve all heard about the importance of saving for retirement, but how do you offer a retirement program to your employees when you’re a small business? The State of Connecticut has a solution for you.
MyCTSavings is a retirement savings program for small businesses, sponsored by the Office of the State Comptroller. Businesses with 5 or more employees that have been in business since January 1, 2023, and do not offer a retirement plan are required to sign up for MyCTSavings or provide another qualified retirement plan for their employees. MyCTSavings is free to businesses, and voluntary for employees. Join WBDC and the State Comptroller’s office to learn how MyCTSavings can benefit your business and help your employees start saving for a more secure financial future.
Run time: 28 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Lisa Kidder, Comptroller’s Office, State of CT

Join WBDC Business Advisor, Carol Cheswick, to explore why planning your exit strategy early can protect your investment, maximize value, and ensure a smooth transition when it’s time to move on.You’ll learn simple steps to prepare for the future and handle the unexpected. Start building a plan now to ensure your hard work pays off when it’s time to move on.
Run time:30 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Please visit thislinkfor instructor bios.

Whether you are self-employed, considering self-employment as an independent contractor, or are considering hiring or are currently using independent contractors to expand your business, join us to learn the difference and implications of each.

Run time:42 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Robin Imbrogno is the CEO and Founder ofThe Human Resource Consulting Group, a 35-year-old outsourcing service firm that provides clients throughout the United States with personalized Human Resource, Payroll, and Time and Attendance services. The company has been recognized as one of the fastest growing private US firms by Inc Magazine and one of the largest female-owned businesses in the Hartford Region by the Hartford Business Journal.Robin is a recognized leader in the business community, having served in leadership positions on many boards and associations around the country.

All businesses should have a budget and Child Care Programs are no exception. Whether your program is based in your home or in a center, you should know how to estimate your income and expenses. During this session, we will examine the components of a budget, how to roughly calculate what you bring in, what you spend, and what you spend it on. We will also discuss how to use this information to make important decisions for your business. This recording will help you to start working on this important business tool.
Run time: 26 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Linda Fecteau, Child Care Business Advisor

In this engaging one-hour class, you’ll explore a variety of pricing strategies (for service or product-based businesses) to help you optimize profits while staying competitive. From cost-plus to value-based pricing, you’ll learn how to choose the right approach for you. The session will also also include a useful pricing tool, giving you hands-on experience with calculating the point at which your business covers all costs. By the end of the class, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to set prices that balance profitability and customer appeal.
Run time: 35 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Laura Blake serves as the Eastern Region Program Manager at the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC), where she leads the Marketing curriculum and outreach efforts across the eastern part of Connecticut. With extensive experience in both academia and industry, Laura was previously a full-time faculty member and chair of the Management department, and continues to lecture in the MBA program at Nichols Graduate School. She also contributed to the college’s Business Consulting initiative, helping small businesses navigate marketing and strategic challenges. Before transitioning to academia, Laura was Vice President of Client Services at Arnold Worldwide’s New York office, where she crafted innovative marketing strategies for major tech clients.

Are you feeling a bit overwhelmed by your online marketing demands? Take control of your business’s online presence with these top Google tools: Google Business Profile:Learn to manage your business information on Google Search and Maps effectively. Google Analytics:Understand how your web pages perform and make data-driven decisions. Google Search Console:Optimize your keywords and content to be user-friendly and improve search visibility. Get the skills you need to boost your business’s online performance with this one hour overview. Run time: 27 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Miria 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.

Doing all your HR yourself? Join WBDC’s Child Care Business Advisor Linda Fecteau and guest presenter Jessica Stewart,to better understand the best techniques for recruiting and retaining staff. The session will explore creative ways toinspireemployees beyond wages, and foster a healthy culture with supportive supervision to your teachers. Child care owners and administrators will leave with practical ideas to make their program more attractive to current and prospective teachers.
Run time: 49 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Linda Fecteau is a Business Advisor dedicated to helping child care programs enhance their business practices. As a founder and former owner of multi-site child care centers, Linda assists ECE professionals as they develop and implement fiscal policies and practices that save time and money. She has also served as the lead instructor for Administration and Supervision of Early Childhood Programs for Charter Oak State College, and brings knowledge of entrepreneurship and non-profit management to her work.
Guest Instructor:Jessica Stewart is a dedicated education consultant with over 25 years of experience in childcare. She specializes in training, management, child enrollment, and childcare licensing, helping programs meet high-quality standards. As a preschool educational book author, Jessica is passionate about fostering early learning and supporting educators in creating enriching environments for young children.

Areyou feeling overwhelmed by the endless marketing options out there? In this class Prati Kaufman, Content Creation expert, will show you how to cut through the noise and focus on a simple yet powerful approach to marketing that can transform your business. Whether you’re a small business owner, new entrepreneur, or general marketer, this session is designed to help you harness the power of simplicity and clarity.
What You’ll Learn:
1. The Core Idea: How focusing on one message, one audience, and one offer can skyrocket your marketing impact.
2. Simplification for Success: Strategies to eliminate overwhelm and amplify effectiveness by narrowing your marketing scope.
3. Practical Steps: A step-by-step approach to implementing the Power of One Marketing in your business immediately.
Why watch?If you’re tired of juggling endless marketing tactics and want a clear, actionable framework to transform your strategy, this class is for you. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and tools to streamline your efforts and achieve measurable growth..
Run time: 39 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Prati Kaufman has over20 years of experience in marketing across the globe, working with everything from local entrepreneurs to Fortune 500+ corporations. She left corporate marketing to start her own full service marketing agency just five years ago. Her agency partners with entrepreneurs and business owners to scale their businesses with laser-focused, integrated marketing strategy planning and execution. Her specialties include website design and development, organic and paid lead generation, social media content creation and management, video editing and graphic design.

This workshop is designed for entrepreneurs looking to leverage generative AI to streamline and grow their businesses. The session covers key entrepreneurial strategies and demonstrates how generative AI tools can assist in solving business challenges.
Run time: 30 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructors:
Tamilla Triantoro, Ph.D.is an Associate Professor in the School of Business at Quinnipiac University. Tamilla’s expertise is in Artificial Intelligence, Human-AI Collaboration, and the Future of Work. She has shared her insights globally, presenting her research at academic conferences and industry events on six continents. Tamilla is the co-author of Converging Minds: The Creative Potential of Collaborative AI written with Aleksandra Przegalinska.
Tuvana Rua is an Associate Professor of Management at School of Business at Quinnipiac University and currently teaches in the areas of management, negotiations, and leadership.Dr. Rua also has extensive international business experience with a concentration in management and marketing. Additionally, she has served as an independent consultant to start-up and small businesses in the tri-state area.

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.
Run time:27 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructora: Pat Klapper, WBDC Business Advisor

An overview on the types of scams businesses, especially newly registered businesses, might receive, and how to recognize potential fraud.
Run time: 7minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Janet Johnson, WBDC Business Advisor

Course Description:
Is your website working hard enough for your business? In this session, you’ll learn how to refresh and optimize your website to attract visitors, improve user experience, and align with your brand. We’ll cover essential design elements, SEO basics, and best practices for clear calls to action. Whether your website needs a full overhaul or just a quick polish, this session will provide actionable steps to ensure your online presence leaves a lasting impression.
Run time: – 43 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Kadian Morris has many years of Website Design experience and entrepreneurship. Herwebsite design company, Web K Assistance, services the entire state of Connecticut and the UnitedStates. They provide custom-built Website Designs, Logo Designs, and Maintenance/Support services for small businesses delivering exceptional customer service.
While Kadian continues to mold and growher business, shelikes to spend time improving herself technologically and personally. This would be in the form of taking certificationprograms in computer security/administration/networking,learning to use handyman tools around her living environment, and learning to sew. She believes in gaining skills in areas that we are interested in and that is why she indulges in those skills.

Are you curious about what it takes to own a franchise? Thinking about buying one? Join Luc Deslauriers for an insightful session on franchise ownership—what’s expected, what resources are provided, and what risks are involved.This session will cover topics like what franchising is, the role of a franchisee, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to qualify to be a franchise owner. You’ll leave with an understanding of whether franchising is right for you and how to take your first steps toward business ownership.
Run time: 37 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Luc Deslauriers spent 15 years in the advertising industry, specializing in Yellow Pages. As the industry evolved, he transitioned out of advertising and discovered his passion for franchising. Luc has been a franchise owner, developer, and consultant, helping hundreds of individuals successfully move from the corporate world into business ownership.

Do you work with independent contactors or freelancers?
If so, you may be required to submit 1099s for to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Department of Revenue Services by January 31.The 1099 form is used to report income that is paid by your company for services performed by a person or business who is not your W-2 employee.
Learn helpful tips and suggestions to get you prepared.
Topics include:
Who are you required to submit a 1099 for? What form do you given them, 1099-MIS, 1099-NEC, or ? When are the forms due? How do I create them? Note: This class was recorded in January 2025 and discusses the 2024 tax year
Run time: 28 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Sherry Konwerski, WBDC Business Advisor

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.
Run time: 53 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Carol Cheswick, WBDC Business Advisor

Choosing the right brand name is a crucial step toward your business’s long-term success—and one of the most challenging. In this seminar, we’ll walk through the essential steps for developing a brand name that’s not only relevant to your business but also distinctive and memorable. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an idea, you’ll gain practical tools to build a name that stands out.
Run time: 48 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:For over 40 years, Bob Kuperman has played a key role in creating some of the most iconic and effective brand advertising in the world — campaigns for brands like Meow Mix, the Energizer Bunny, and Apple’s “Think Different.”One of the original “Mad Men,” he is consistently recognized as one of the top 100 advertising professionals in the U.S. Today, he is a sought-after teacher and speaker, invited by communication and marketing organizations around the globe to share his insights and experience.

Social media marketing may get all the buzz, but emailing your clients is still the best way to drive and close sales. Join Business Advisor Joy Braddock to learn how to create Lead Nurture and Sales Email Campaigns that work hand-in-hand to bring buyers through your door and turn them into customers. All you need is the right framework and insights to help you craft what can be your #1 sales generating tool.
Run time:56 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor: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.

This interactive session will help entrepreneurs demystify artificial intelligence, with a clear focus on practical, low-cost, and free tools that can help small business owners save time, improve marketing, and strengthen their businesses. We’ll review use cases, tips for getting started, and the latest trends in accessible AI for business owners—no technical background required.
Run time: 52 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:David Rich is Chair of SCORE Western Connecticut, a nonprofit resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration dedicated to fostering vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education. He is also a member of SCORE’s national AI Community of Practice, helping volunteers and small business owners across the country understand and effectively apply AI tools.
Outside SCORE, David is a fintech and payments strategist with over 20 years of experience advising global financial institutions, fintech startups, and payment networks on strategy, risk management, and technology adoption. He has led workshops and webinars for thousands of small business owners and volunteers across the region.

¿Quieres aumentar tu matrícula y asegurarte de mantener todos los cupos llenos en el futuro? ¿Te gustaría aprender cómo el compromiso con tu comunidad puede impactar la inscripción?
Únete aZayed Rodriguezpara conversar sobre formas de conectar con tu comunidad, aumentar la matrícula y garantizar la sostenibilidad de tu negocio.Los participantes de esta clase se llevarán al menos diez ideas para involucrarse con su comunidad y aumentar la inscripción.
Los proveedores de cuidado infantil son una parte esencial de cualquier comunidad. Sin embargo, muchas personas aún no conocen la valiosa labor que realizas. Dar a conocer tu trabajo en la comunidad es clave para asegurar que tu negocio prospere con una matrícula completa.
Corbata:50 minutos
eLearning:Esta sesión es parte de la biblioteca de WBDC y le brinda fácil acceso para entrenar a su ritmo y según su horario.
Instructora Bio:Zayed Rodriguez, WBDC Business Advisor

Etsy or Shopify – Which One Is Right for Me?
Whether you are newly formed or an established business, your company can thrive on either platform. Debra Lutsky, founder of Digital Retail Partners will provide insight into the world of eCommerce and whether Shopify or Etsy are right for you.
What You’ll Learn:
• Understanding of each platform• Business types that do well with Etsy• Business types that do well with Shopify• Migrating from Etsy to Shopify• Foundations of marketing for each platform

Run time:- 51 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Debra Lutsky founded Digital Retail Partners in 2015 with her extensive background in traditional graphic design and development. Digital Retail Partners is an integrated design and development company specializing in D2C and eCommerce brands. She saw the shift early on in traditional retail and focused her efforts on learning Shopify, one of the world’s largest eCommerce platforms. Debra joined the ranks of the few individuals in the region to become a certified expert in its use. She works with businesses all over the world but especially enjoys supporting start-ups. Debra was honored in 2018 with the Women Rising Award by the WBDC.https://digitalretailpartners.com/

Join Marisol Herrera, Procurement Specialist and Business Development Manager attheConnecticutProcurement Technical Assistance Center(PTAC),as she explainsthe steps you need to take in order to do businesswith Federal, State and Local governments. You will also learn where to find contracting opportunities.
Attendees will learn about:
Federal and State certifications Federal and State registrations This interactive webinar will include a live demo. Attendees will learn about essential government websites that will help you grow your government business.
Run time:58 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Marisol Herrera, CT Procurement Technical Assistance Center

The first quarter of the year is typically when tax season preparation heats up for businesses. There is paperwork to be organized, with the goal of creating a return that is accurate and doesn’t hold any financial surprises for your business. Join Sarah Watson, CPA, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, to get some quick tips to help you prepare and stay on top of the paperwork that comes in fast and furious in the early part of the year.
Run time: – 56 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Sarah Watson, CPA, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP and Sherry Konwerski, WBDC

The new law affectsindividual or sole proprietorships, partnerships, firms, corporations, trusts, limited liability companies, limited liability partnerships, joint stock companies, and joint ventures. This webinar is especially relevant for businesses that collect sensitive and personal information from their employees and clients.
Run time: – 52 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Bill Becker, President of BSquared Intel

Do you understand the difference between public relations, marketing, and advertising? Wonder how you can use public relations to grow your small business?
Join us to learn exactly what public relations is and how it can help your business. Jennifer Bernheim, owner of OnPurpose PR, will help you develop a PR strategy and provide tips for getting started.
Run time: 56 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor bio:Jennifer Bernheim thrives on serving purpose-driven business leaders who align purpose with profit. As the founder of OnPurpose PR, a boutique public relations consultancy, Jennifer develops, implements, and evaluates strategic public relations plans to meet her clients’ business objectives, garner media attention, and increase brand awareness. Jennifer is also the founder of OnPurpose Family, which creates meaningful and lasting connections for families and their communities.

Communicating your product or service is a key skill for every entrepreneur. You have to be able to talk about what you do or sell, concisely, clearly and with confidence to capture the attention and interest of potential buyers or recommenders.
This one-hour session will cover best practices and techniques for pitching, including how to:
Craft a pitch for your product/service based on your customer’s point of view Communicate concisely and with confidence Use examples and client stories to communicate your brand and connect to your audience’s needs and wants Use powerful and engaging body language (voice, gestures, movement, eye contact) to establish credibility Make content and delivery adjustments for virtual presentations
Run time: – 54 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Gilda Bonanno
Gilda Bonanno is a professional speaker, coach, consultant and facilitator who serves as a trusted advisor to entrepreneurs and executives to transform their communication, presentation and leadership skills.
Since 2006, she has run her own business and worked with leading organizations on four continents, from Chicago to Shanghai and Rio to Rome, including Henkel, Praxair/Linde, JP Morgan Chase, Society for Marketing Professional Services, Women in Bio and Yale University.
Gilda is a Certified Virtual Presenter, her YouTube channel has received over 1.5 million views and her digital newsletter has reached subscribers in over 45 countries since 2008.She is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and holds a master’s degree from Fordham University and an Advanced Business Certificate in Management from the University of Connecticut School of Business.
Gilda is committed to advancing economic equity for women.She is an adviser to the Women’s Business Development Council (based in Stamford and serving women entrepreneurs throughout Connecticut)where she serves as Emcee for both the Annual Women-Owned Business Day at the State Capitol in Hartford and the Annual Gala Luncheon.
Websitewww.gildabonanno.com
Blogwww.gildabonanno.blogspot.com
Videoswww.youtube.com/user/GildaBonanno
LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gildabonanno

Ready to get your business in front of more customers? In just one hour, you’ll learn how to easily set up and activate your Google Business Profile — a powerful (and free) tool that helps local customers find and choose your business online. Google Business Profile is a free, high-impact marketing tool that delivers real results—58% more in-store visits and 2.7× more customer trust.
If you already have your Google Business Profile set up, check out next month’s class for Intermediate users to optimize your Profile performance and manage reviews.
Run time: 40 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor: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.

The perception of your brand exists whether you control it or not. Karen Corell, a highly accomplished branding executive, will teach you how to create a brand strategy in this interactive course. Learn what a brand is, what factors to consider when creating visual and verbal communications, and how to write a brand positioning statement.
Run time:- 49 Minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Karen Corell is a design firm executive specializing in consumer product branding strategy and design,product packaging design, and design-firm management. She is an award-winning designer and has ledstrategic branding efforts and packagingdesign programs for major clients such as Nestlé, ExxonMobil, Goya Foods, Kraft,Pillsbury, and Hewlitt-Packard, among many others.

With everything else on your plate as a small business owner, has posting on social media taken a back seat? Join master collaborator, entrepeneur, and graphic design expert, Nancy Ruzow, for tips on how regular scheduling, concepts, templates, and posting can lead to a major increase in people noticing your business across differentsocial media platforms.
Run time: -51 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Nancy Ruzow is passionate about design and supporting others.She has been a graphic designer for 41 years.Since 1985 as Ruzow Graphics, she juggles her roles as partner and problem solver to her clients, whether it’s a new collaboration with a major football franchise or a long-term collaboration with the University of Oxford. Her work has brought many accolades, including more than 74 national design awards.As the owner of Creatives Roundtable, she offers small group coaching, accountability, and community for creative entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small creative firms.

Are you stressed about creating a steady income because you never know how many clients you’ll have month-to-month? The “Power of Programs: How to Streamline Your Business and Better Serve Clients” workshop helps entrepreneurs create a fully supported program for clients that enables them to charge moreand break away from hourly rates.
By packaging your services you’ll be able to guarantee a rate that truly reflects your efforts, organize your time and energy more effectively, and serve your clients at the highest level. Join Katherine Jamieson for this 1-hour webinar to learn how creating programs can transform your business, and bring you more joy, ease, and day-to-day satisfaction in your work.
Run time: – 47 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Katherine Jamieson, MFA is a Business and Writing Coach who specializes in working with women entrepreneurs. Having launched two successful businesses in different fields (Wellness and Music), she’s passionate about helping women find their voices and create strong, original content that aligns with their mission and vision. Katherine’s work has appeared in The New York Times, Ms. magazine, Washingtonian, The Best Travel Writing and many other publications.

Course description:
What is influencer marketing? Influencer marketing is a strategy where brands collaborate with individuals who have a strong and engaged following—often on social media—to promote products, services, or messages to their audience, leveraging the influencer’s credibility and reach to build brand awareness and trust. Together with a solid PR (public relations) communication strategy, you can build trust and credibility with your consumers. Learn how to craft compelling narratives, cultivate a positive brand image, and amplify your reach through influencers to build your reputation. These strategies will help you increase customer loyalty, retention, and ultimately, business growth.
Run time: 40 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor: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.

¿Estás pensando en crecer desde una casa familiar a un centro? ¿O ha abierto recientemente un centro? Únase a WBDC Business Advisor y experta en la primera infancia, Linda Fecteau, para aprender sobre artículos importantes a considerar antes de dar el salto para expandirse. Obtenga consejos prácticos sobre presupuestar, ensamblar su equipo de la primera infancia, administrar la inscripción y más.
Run time: – 52 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Linda Fecteau, WBDC

Understanding intellectual property (IP) is an important skill for anyone starting or growing a business. Your business name, products, services, and other technical and creative works are usually protected by one or more forms of IP: patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Join Attorney Michael Blake who will discuss IPprotection forthe various parts of your business andhow IPhelps you create and maintain a competitive advantage over your competition, whichis essential for your long-term success.
Run time: 40 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Michael A. Blake, Registered Patent Attorney

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.
Run time:40 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Jacqueline Torcellini, US Commercial Service

Fundamentos financieros: Introducción a las finanzas personales (curso de 3 partes)
Parte 1: Presupuesto 101
Tu relación con el dinero, el presupuesto
Examine cómo lo que piensa sobre el dinero afecta su relación con el dinero. ¡Aprenda a establecer un presupuesto que funcione para usted!
En esta grabación, Monica Martinez Hess repasa la importancia de tener un presupuesto y cómo crearlo. Esta grabación también incluye preguntas y respuestas de personas que asistieron a la sesión.
Regístrese para acceder a una hoja de presupuesto en español.

Fundamentos financieros: Introducción a las finanzas personales (curso de 3 partes)
Parte 2: Crédito y deudaPuntaje de crédito, deudas y gestión de riesgos
Aprenda cómo se conectan estos temas y qué debe hacer para mejorar sus finanzas.

Fundamentos financieros: Introducción a las finanzas personales (curso de 3 partes)
Parte 3: Ahorros
Ahorros en general, financiación universitaria y jubilación: seguridad social, 401K, etc.
Venga y conozca los beneficios de planificar el presente y el futuro.

Canva can be a powerful tool to design beautiful graphics and visuals for your business, and many features are free! Learn how to get started with this platform and how to create eye-catching visuals to elevate your business. Plus get all the latest updates as Canva offers new and improved functions!
Run time: 41 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Jamie Taylor, CEO Taylored Media – As a media and digital strategist for over a decade and award-winning content creator and blogger, Jamie 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.

Financial Foundations: Intro to Personal Finance-WBDC is pleased to have personal financial expert Lisa Micalizzi, from Wells Fargo Bank discuss important topics about how to make your financial future secure.
Session 1– Your relationship with Money-Budgeting
Examine how your thinking about money affects your relationship with money. Learn to set a budget that works for you!
Session 2– Understanding Credit reports & scores
Credit score, debt and risk management
Learn how these topics connect and what you need to do to improve your finances.
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Lisa Micalizzi, Wells Fargo Bank

Financial Foundations: Intro to Personal Finance-WBDC is pleased to have personal financial expert Lisa Micalizzi, from Wells Fargo Bank discuss important topics about how to make your financial future secure.
Session 1– Your relationship with Money-Budgeting
Examine how your thinking about money affects your relationship with money. Learn to set a budget that works for you!
Session 2– Understanding Credit reports & scores
Credit score, debt and risk management
Learn how these topics connect and what you need to do to improve your finances.
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Lisa Micalizzi, Wells Fargo Bank

Ready to transform your business with TikTok? If yes, then this class is for you!
In this electrifying class, we’ll teach you the ABCs of TikTok, how to go about creating eye-catching videos, how to use trends, TikTok Shop and more!Explore the potential to turn your TikTok presence into a revenue-generating machine for your small business.
You won’t have to dance, but you’ll need to show up. This class is your ticket to unlocking the untapped potential of one of the hottest social media platforms for small businesses. Get ready to unleash your creativity and watch your business flourish in the thrilling realm of short-form content.
Run time: 39 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Annya White-Brown is the founder and CEO of NaturalAnnie Essentials, a candle bar and candle studio based in Bridgeport, CT. Heavily influenced by her Jamaican culture, she has mastered the ability to use scents to transport others to a tropical place.Annya is passionate about operating her small business and is especially fond of Marketing as she has grown her company from the ground up. Annya has worked with a number of reputable companies such as TikTok, Maker’s Mark, and Michael’s to name a few, sharing her craft and her marketing strategies.

Join Sherry Konwerski, WBDC Business Advisor andQuickBooksPro Advisor, for a general overview ofQuickBooksOnline. Learn the basic features and functionality of thistool 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.
This recording is in English
Run time: – 52 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Please visit thislinkfor instructor bios.

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!
Run time: 21 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Samantha Cross, WBDC

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.
The end of the class has a short bonus on Avoiding Scams. To view Avoiding Scams on it’s own click here:https://ctwbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/978313
Run time: 51 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Janet Johnson, WBDC Business Advisor

Learn the key legal basics of real estate leasing to protect your business and make informed decisions. Attorney Joshua Hecht will cover the following topics:
Important Lease Provisions Location Length of Lease Rent Amount Subleasing Termination Competition Access to property Approvals
Run time: 52 minutes

eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.

Instructor:Attorney Joshua Hecht is a principal in the law firm of Caplan & Hecht, LLC, located in New Haven, Connecticut. He received his B.S., cum laude, in Hotel, Restaurant and Travel Administration from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and his J.D. from Albany Law School. He is a adjunct professor at Gateway Community College and Quinnipiac Law School. The law firm of Caplan & Hecht, LLC has been in existence since 1935 and provides legal services throughout Connecticut in areas such as real estate (commercial and residential), business development, hospitality law and estate planning

LinkedIn – the world’s largest professional network – is an incredibly powerful tool for networking and careerevelopment. During this workshop, Career Coach Anne Ryan will share how to showcase your personal brand on LinkedIn. Follow along and leave the session with an updated LinkedIn profile!
Run time: 47 minutes
eLearning:This session is part of WBDC’s Library, providing you easy access to train at your pace, on your schedule.
Instructor:Career Coach Anne Ryan is passionate about solving the problem of job seekers – especially women – undervaluing themselves.She strives to help clients further their careers through resume and interview coaching.Anne is an accomplished international speaker and workshop creator. She has spoken about technology, resumes, interviewing, and career paths at conferences, universities, non-profits, and veteran organizations across the United States, Europe, and Australia.