SMALL BUSINESS LEARNING SERIES

DEVELOP THE SKILL SET TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS THRIVE

Small business owners often wear multiple hats and require a knowledge of all aspects of business from operations to financing management to marketing and more to effectively manage their operations. B:Side University for Small Business Owners helps entrepreneurs develop a well-rounded skill set necessary for the challenges and opportunities they may encounter in managing their businesses. These free, monthly webinars are presented by both B:Side Fund and partners with extensive expertise in their field.

Upcoming Classes

 
  • Why Attend?

    • Master Your Business Finances: Learn to analyze financial statements for smarter decision-making.

    • Stay Tax-Compliant:  Understand tax obligations and best practices to avoid penalties.

    • Connect with Financial Experts: Build relationships with lenders, tax pros, and financial analysts.

    • Increase Access to Capital: Get funding-ready and explore loan options.

    • Loan Eligibility: Attendees are eligible for up to $10,000 in working capital through B:Side’s Credit Builder. No credit score is required and no collateral needed.

    • 30% Off Admission: Attendees will also receive 30% off admission to the Blaze AI Summit for Small Business.

    Time: 8:00 AM – 12 PM

    Event Agenda:

    8:00 – 8:30 AM | Arrival, Check-In & Networking
    Kick off the event by checking in, meeting fellow attendees, and networking with industry professionals.
    8:30 – 9:00 AM | Session 1: Understanding Financial Statements
    Gain insights into key financial statements, including the Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement, to better understand your business’s financial health.
    9:00 – 9:30 AM | Session 2: Taxes & Compliance
    Learn about business taxes, record keeping best practices, and common compliance pitfalls to avoid.
    9:30 – 9:40 AM | Break
    9:40 – 10:10 AM | Session 3: Preparing for a Loan
    Understand what lenders look for when reviewing loan applications, the necessary documentation, and how your credit profile impacts financing options.
    10:10 – 10:40 AM | Session 4: Exploring Access to Capital
    Discover various funding options, including business loans, equity financing, and exclusive funding opportunities, while learning how to align capital with your business goals.
    10:40 – 11:00 AM | Session 5: Small Business Resources -  Learn about small business resources available in your community, including support from the SBDC, local city programs, and national organizations.
    11:00 – 11:30 AM | Q&A, Summary & Closing Remarks
    11:30 – 12:00 PM | Networking

    Location: Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC 102 S Tejon St #1200, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
    Cost: Free

    Hosted by: B:Side Fund, Pikes Peak SBDC, US Bank

    Seats are limited. REGISTER

  • Descubre cómo certificar tu negocio como empresa puede abrirte puertas a contratos gubernamentales, alianzas con grandes empresas y acceso a valiosas redes de proveedores. Aprende sobre los tipos de certificaciones disponibles, requisitos clave, el proceso de solicitud paso a paso y los recursos que pueden apoyarte en este camino. ¡Prepárate para llevar tu negocio al siguiente nivel!

    Presentando por Dr. Luisa Fernanda Montoya, CEO, Diversity Matters

    Regístrese

  • Join us for a dynamic discussion on the pros and cons of buying versus leasing for small businesses. Our panel of industry experts will delve into the intricacies of these two options, exploring factors such as financial considerations, flexibility, and long-term sustainability. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event promises valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your business's future. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain clarity and guidance on one of the most crucial aspects of small business management.

    Presented by Jessica Stutz, B:Side Capital Lending Director

    Register

  • Gain an in-depth overview of the four key financial reports: the Balance Sheet, Profit & Loss Statement, Budget vs. Actual, and Statement of Cash Flows. Learn how to interpret these statements, identify trends, and use the insights to make informed financial decisions, improve cash flow management, and support strategic planning. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your financial literacy or enhance your business performance, this webinar will offer valuable guidance and practical knowledge.

    Presented by Lucy Velasquez, Owner, Lucy V Bookkeeping, LLC

    REGISTER

  • Join us for an insightful session where we will provide an overview of the SBA's mission and how it supports small businesses. The session will delve into key SBA funding programs and explore valuable resources such as counseling, innovation support resources and access to capital. Whether you are looking to expand your business operations, access capital, or tap into new markets, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge to leverage SBA services for sustainable growth.

    Presented by Asef Ahmed, Lender Relations Specialist and District Manufacturing & Trade Officer, SBA Colorado District Office

    REGISTER

  • This presentation is designed to enhance your understanding of business credit and the valuable benefits it offers. By leveraging business credit, you can improve your loan approval rates and make informed financial decisions. A robust credit profile not only helps you secure more favorable terms but also boosts your business's credibility with lenders.

    We will focus on distinguishing between personal and business credit, exploring the key factors that influence business credit reporting, assessing creditworthiness, and examining a variety of business credit options available to you. Gaining this knowledge is vital for empowering your business and setting the stage for financial success.

    o   Understanding Credit types

    o   Building credit Report

    o   Creditworthiness

    Presented by:

    Rocio Scott, Business Access Advisor, US Bank

    Brandon Willis, Business Access Advisor, US Bank

    REGISTER

 

Previous Sessions

 

Seminarios en Español

 

Enjoying B:Side University? Send us your comments and suggest content for future sessions!