Tag Archives: Small Business

Small Business Development Center offers training for employers and small business owners

By North SA Chamber Editor
Posted on by Email to a Friend

UTSA_EconomicDevelopmentThe UTSA Small Business Development Center offers integrated, low-cost training and free counseling services to meet the needs of small business owners in San Antonio and surrounding counties. All classes can be found on our website at www.sasbdc.org. The following training opportunities are being offered January through March:

January: 

Wednesday, January 22, 2014 – YouTube 101: How to Leverage YouTube Marketing

Did you know YouTube is the second largest search engine after Google? It’s a great social media platform that can help you build your business brand, generate targeted leads and grow your business. Come join Digital Marketing Consultant Yusuf Chowdhury and learn YouTube strategies, what equipment to use, where to start and much more at this workshop. You don’t want to miss this! More information to come soon!

Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21384

 

Thursday, January 23, 2014 – Business Start-Up Essentials

Are you ready to turn your business idea into reality? Come to this workshop and have all your questions answered! The SBDC business advisors will present the basics of starting a new business and help answer your start-up questions. If you are considering opening a small business, this class is your starting point. You will receive a Small Business Resource Guide and many other resources to help you start your business. Topics discussed in this workshop include: evaluating your business idea, business legal structure and name, local, state and federal resources & requirements and business start-up costs.

Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  $30.00

Door Fee:  $50.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21375

 

Wednesday, January 29, 2014 – What You Need to Know Before Buying a Franchise

Franchise ownership is one of the fastest growing segments of business ownership, and with good reason. It is affordable, offers a proven method of success, allows for easy entry and provides options for a variety of backgrounds and skill levels. But before you take the plunge attend this interactive session with Stephen Maeker, Senior Franchise Consultant, and walk away with a better understanding of how franchising works and if it’s the right option for you. An important feature of this workshop includes a hands-on look at an actual franchise disclosure document. The document discloses extensive information about the franchisor and is intended to give you enough information to make an educated decision regarding your investment. Key areas include initial franchise fees and expenses, obligations of the franchisor and franchisee, territory restrictions, renewal and termination, franchisor financial statements, plus much more.

Time: 9:00 am – 11:30 am

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  $25.00

Door Fee:  $45.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21377

 

Thursday, January 30, 2014 – The Business Plan

Whether you need a business plan to map out your plan for your business or are writing a plan because you want to expand, this is the class for you. At this workshop, our experienced instructors will teach you the components of a business plan using an interactive format in a computer lab setting. Walk away from this workshop with the start of a business plan written specifically for your business, an electronic template and resources to guide you through the process! Topics discussed in this workshop include: business plan basics, feasibility process, business plan structure, and financial analysis.

Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $40.00

Door Fee: $60.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21378


February

Tuesdays, February 4-18, 2014 – QuickBooks Pro Series

Pay for all three QuickBooks Pro workshops as a series and save money!

-QuickBooks Pro I (Set-Up): Topics discussed in this workshop include: setting up QuickBooks, working with lists and working with bank accounts.

-QuickBooks Pro II (Intermediate): Topics discussed in this workshop include: using other accounts in QuickBooks (credit card, asset, liability & equity), entering sales and invoices, receiving payments and making deposits, entering and paying bills, setting up inventory and tracking and paying sales tax.

-QuickBooks Pro III (Advanced): Topics include: analyzing financial data, doing payroll with QuickBooks, estimating and progress invoicing

Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $250 for the 3-part series (QuickBooks Pro I, II & III)

Registration link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21379

 

Tuesday, February 4, 2014 – How to Decide What Technology I REALLY Need

Are you just starting out and trying to figure out how to set your company up with technology? Or have you been in business and just not sure if you have all the technology you need? Come join Michael Espinoza owner of Technology Coaching as he walks you through your decision making process. Use his plan to develop your ideal technology platform and setup. Walk away with a good understanding regarding what technology will be most effective for your business. He will cover:

• Questions to ask before you consider any technology

• Options that are available to you and whether you REALLY need them

• Picking the options that are best for you based on your needs

• General questions about technology that you are currently considering

Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21391

 

Tuesday, February 4, 2014 – QuickBooks Pro I (Set-Up)

Are you in the beginning stages of using QuickBooks and want to expand your knowledge? Come to this workshop to learn the basic features of QuickBooks and have the opportunity for hands-on practice. We will discuss the information you should be tracking and how to enter it in QuickBooks. You will walk away from this workshop with familiarity with the most common tasks and where to find information about more advanced features of QuickBooks. Topics discussed in this workshop include: setting up QuickBooks, working with lists and working with bank accounts.

Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $100.00

Door Fee: $120.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21511

 

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 – Lunch n’ Learn: How to Get Started with Text Message Marketing

Text Message Marketing is a low-cost and highly-effective tool to communicate to your customers…in REAL TIME. 97% of Text Messages are read and most of them are read just a few minutes after it’s sent. Wouldn’t it be great to alert your customers about today’s specials and know they see it today…or to invite them to come back to your business EXACTLY at the time you want them to come back? Duffy Hobbs is a Text Message Marketing Professional who will guide you step-by-step to help you put your message into the hands of your customers.

Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Location: 800 W. San Antonio, Suite A., New Braunfels, TX 78130

Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21381

 

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 – How to Outsource Effectively for Your Business

Come learn how to effectively outsource some of your tasks to sustain and grow your business. Outsourcing can sometimes be challenging and frustrating if you do not know how to hire the right team. Digital Marketing Consultant Yusuf Chowdhury will talk about some of the successful strategies to find the right people to take your business to the next level.

Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21382

 

Thursday, February 6, 2014 – Affordable Care Act Update

Are you a small business owner that is going to be affected by the Affordable Care Act? If you are, compliance with the law goes into effect on October 1st. Are you ready? This workshop is an analysis of the healthcare reform laws and other regulatory activities with a focus on the importance of recordkeeping. Come listen to Alicia Haff, attorney and owner of Haff Consulting Services, LLC as she presents the latest information.

Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Fee: Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21385

 

Friday, February 7, 2014 – Business Start-Up Essentials

Are you ready to turn your business idea into reality? Come to this workshop and have all your questions answered! The SBDC business advisors will present the basics of starting a new business and help answer your start-up questions. If you are considering opening a small business, this class is your starting point. You will receive a Small Business Resource Guide and many other resources to help you start your business. Topics discussed in this workshop include: evaluating your business idea, business legal structure and name, local, state and federal resources & requirements and business start-up costs.

Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  $30.00

Door Fee:  $50.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21386

 

Tuesday, February 11, 2014 – QuickBooks Pro II (Intermediate)

Would you like to expand your knowledge of QuickBooks? This workshop completes the introduction to the basic features of QuickBooks and provides further hands-on practice. Topics discussed in this workshop include: using other accounts in QuickBooks (credit card, asset, liability & equity), entering sales and invoices, receiving payments and making deposits, entering and paying bills, setting up inventory and tracking and paying sales tax.

Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $100.00

Door Fee: $120.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21387

 

Wednesday, February 12, 2014 – The Business Plan

Whether you need a business plan to map out your plan for your business or are writing a plan because you want to expand, this is the class for you. At this workshop, our experienced instructors will teach you the components of a business plan using an interactive format in a computer lab setting. Walk away from this workshop with the start of a business plan written specifically for your business, an electronic template and resources to guide you through the process! Topics discussed in this workshop include: business plan basics, feasibility process, business plan structure, and financial analysis.

Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $40.00

Door Fee: $60.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21388

 

Thursday, February 13, 2014 – Getting Started with Constant Contact Email Marketing

New to constant contact email marketing? In this time-efficient, highly practical workshop, Debi Pfitzenmaier, Authorized Local Expert for Constant Contact will give you an instructive overview of Constant Contact’s tools and features and how to put them to work for you! You’ll learn the basics so you can create successful email marketing campaigns. Topics discussed in this workshop include: setting up your constant contact account, getting new subscribers, creating an email campaign, editing newsletter templates, branding your emails, creating desirable content, importing your email list into your database, tracking and interpreting your results and much more.

Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee: $25.00

Door Fee: $45.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21389

 

Tuesday, February 18, 2014 – How to Tackle Password Management

The number of passwords we must remember isn’t getting any smaller. From online banking to social media, we must have passwords for everything we do. Are you guilty of keeping your passwords on sticky notes or always forgetting them? Join Michael Espinoza, owner of Technology Coaching us for a session on password management to learn:

• How to manage and organize your passwords

• Share your passwords on other devices (phone, tablet, etc.)

• Create stronger, more reliable passwords • different tools that can make your daily computing a breeze Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21390

 

Tuesday, February 18, 2014 – QuickBooks Pro III (Advanced)

This unique workshop provides advanced concepts and offers an introduction to customizing QuickBooks. Receive instruction from Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisors and one-on-one assistance from UTSA Senior Level Accounting Students to customize QuickBooks and meet your business needs. Topics discussed in this workshop include: analyzing financial data, doing payroll with QuickBooks, estimating and progress invoicing, tracking time, customizing form and writing letters.

Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $100.00

Door Fee: $120.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21392

 

Wednesday, February 19, 2014 – Business Start-Up Essentials

Are you ready to turn your business idea into reality? Come to this workshop and have all your questions answered! The SBDC business advisors will present the basics of starting a new business and help answer your start-up questions. If you are considering opening a small business, this class is your starting point. You will receive a Small Business Resource Guide and many other resources to help you start your business. Topics discussed in this workshop include: evaluating your business idea, business legal structure and name, local, state and federal resources & requirements and business start-up costs.

Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  $30.00

Door Fee:  $50.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21393

 

Wednesday, February 19, 2013 – Lunch n’ Learn: Designing Your Marketing Strategy

Strong and successful branding and marketing strategy extend far beyond a logo and a business card. Proper, purposeful marketing is an integral part of a business’s success. It is also one of the most volatile, subjective and misunderstood areas of business operations. Although largely considered the fun part of business- with logos, tag lines, advertising, promotional items, letterhead and so on- marketing done well is much more than meets the eye. Join Beverly Ingle, owner of Resilient by Design and author of Design Thinking for Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses, and walk away with the seven parts of a brand’s identity as well as how to develop a marketing strategy that not only supports the brand, but also resonates with their customers. Key take-away points include: the seven aspects of a brand, how to define a brand’s DNA, purposeful marketing is powerful marketing, and best practices for using design thinking to improve marketing strategy

Time: 11:30am – 1:00pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Fee: Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21394

 

Thursday, February 20, 2014 – Are You Ready for Commercial Space?

Looking to purchase, rent or lease commercial property? Visit us before you do. This new and exciting workshop is tailored specifically for small business owners looking for the right commercial property to complete their business dream. Discuss basic considerations in commercial real estate such as factors in negotiating a lease or sales price, and how to assess property lease vs. purchase decision. At the end of this workshop you will understand the lease or buying process from beginning to end and know how to develop a letter of intent (LOI).

Time: 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $25.00

Door Fee: $45.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21395

 

Thursday, February 27, 2014 – The Business Plan

Whether you need a business plan to map out your plan for your business or are writing a plan because you want to expand, this is the class for you. At this workshop, our experienced instructors will teach you the components of a business plan using an interactive format in a computer lab setting. Walk away from this workshop with the start of a business plan written specifically for your business, an electronic template and resources to guide you through the process! Topics discussed in this workshop include: business plan basics, feasibility process, business plan structure, and financial analysis.

Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $40.00

Door Fee: $60.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21396

 

Friday, February 28, 2014 – Social Media Roundtable

Is your business social? From blogging to Facebook, LinkedIn to Twitter, and Yelp to YouTube, learn what social media can and cannot do for your business. At this roundtable, we will discuss which social media channels work for your particular business and what to consider in developing a social media strategy. Topics discussed in this roundtable include: how to increase traffic to your website, how to market your business, how to measure the effectiveness of your social media strategy and monitor your online presence. *This roundtable is highly interactive; participants should come prepared to share their ideas and learn from others’ strategies.

Time: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Fee: Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21397

March

Tuesday, March 4, 2014 – How to Put the Right Technology Backup Plan Into Place

If you don’t have a good plan to backup your data and devices, you’re planning to fail. It’s not a matter of IF your devices will fail, it’s WHEN. Every small business needs a backup plan. Join Michael Espinoza of Technology Coaching where he will cover:

• Why you need a Backup plan

• How to set up a Backup plan

• The Equipment and services for a good backup plan

• Why imaging is important to your backup plan.

Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21398

 

Wednesday, March 5, 2014 – Social Media Marketing Made Simple

How social is your business? In this information-packed seminar you will learn the essential strategies and best practices a business or organization should understand in order to successfully get started with social media marketing. You’ll learn everything you need to know to create your own social media marketing strategy and why it’s so important. Join Debi Pfitzenmaier, Authorized Local Expert for Constant Contact as she shares the latest best practices and proven strategies on: social media basics, building a quality community, creating valuable content, implementing time savers and learning through monitoring. You will leave with a greater understanding of social media, how it fits into your marketing plan, and how to easily implement different tools to engage your audience and grow your business. Social media for business is here to stay, so come learn how to best utilize it to help your business grow!

Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  $25.00

Door Fee:  $45.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21399

 

Friday, March 7, 2013 – Business Start-Up Essentials

Are you ready to turn your business idea into reality? Come to this workshop and have all your questions answered! The SBDC business advisors will present the basics of starting a new business and help answer your start-up questions. If you are considering opening a small business, this class is your starting point. You will receive a Small Business Resource Guide and many other resources to help you start your business. Topics discussed in this workshop include: evaluating your business idea, business legal structure and name, local, state and federal resources & requirements and business start-up costs.

Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  $30.00

Door Fee:  $50.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21400

 

Wednesday, March 12, 2014 – Business Essentials for the Artist

Are you an artist who needs to operate more efficiently and increase your profits? Need advice on marketing your artwork? Attend this new workshop that is designed specifically for artists, photographers and others in creative endeavors who want to learn how to operate their businesses more profitably. Topics discussed in this workshop include: promoting your business with social media, determining your prices, writing a business plan to increase your profits, how and where to sell your work, local and federal tax and legal requirements and much more.

Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee: $30.00

Door Fee: $50.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21401

 

Thursday, March 13, 2014 – The Business Plan

Whether you need a business plan to map out your plan for your business or are writing a plan because you want to expand, this is the class for you. At this workshop, our experienced instructors will teach you the components of a business plan using an interactive format in a computer lab setting. Walk away from this workshop with the start of a business plan written specifically for your business, an electronic template and resources to guide you through the process! Topics discussed in this workshop include: business plan basics, feasibility process, business plan structure, and financial analysis.

Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $40.00

Door Fee: $60.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21405

 

Tuesday, March 18, 2014 – Business Start-Up Essentials

Are you ready to turn your business idea into reality? Come to this workshop and have all your questions answered! The SBDC business advisors will present the basics of starting a new business and help answer your start-up questions. If you are considering opening a small business, this class is your starting point. You will receive a Small Business Resource Guide and many other resources to help you start your business. Topics discussed in this workshop include: evaluating your business idea, business legal structure and name, local, state and federal resources & requirements and business start-up costs.

Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  $30.00

Door Fee:  $50.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21407

 

Tuesday, March 18, 2014 – Technology Purchasing Made Simple

You know the technology you want but where is the best place to buy it? We’re constantly buying technology for our business. Are we buying at the right place, at the right time? Join Michael Espinoza, the Technology Coach at this session to get these questions answered.

• Learn were the best place to buy technology, local, online…

• Learn the questions to ask before you buy

• Learn about the warranties that you get or can buy.

• Learn about your option New, Used, and Refurbished, remanufactured. Please note that Michael Espinoza is not affiliated with any organization other than his own and does not resell any of the products or services he speaks about in any of his classes. His intent is to educate small business owners regarding technology.

Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21406

 

Wednesday, March 19, 2014 – Blogging to Build Business

Join Digital Marketing Consultant Yusuf Chowdhury as he talks about why blogging is a must for businesses. Topics include: starting your business blog, content ideas, search engine optimized content, promoting your blog, engaging your readers and turning them into loyal customers.

Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21408

 

Thursday, March 20, 2014 – Grow Your Business with Email and Social Media

Many small businesses and organizations find themselves seeking the right strategies, tools and tactics to make their marketing efforts as effective as possible. But between Facebook and Twitter, email and mobile, deals, and whatever new social network is rolling out that month — there’s a lot to keep up with. And there are only so many hours in each day. The number of possibilities can feel overwhelming. Debi Pfitzenmaier, Authorized Local Expert for Constant Contact, will help make sense of the noise and show you how to make the most of the combination of email and social media for your business. You’ll have a greater understanding of marketing basics like goals and objectives. You’ll learn what a “campaign” is and what to write about and offer in that campaign. You’ll be given some simple but powerful tips for how to get your messages opened and read, shared and socially visible. And you’ll see that there are some great tools you can use to help engage with your existing customers as well as expand your reach to new prospects.

Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  $25.00

Door Fee:  $45.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21409

 

Friday, March 21, 2014 – Lunch n’ Learn: How to Get Started with Text Message Marketing

Text Message Marketing is a low-cost and highly-effective tool to communicate to your customers…in REAL TIME. 97% of Text Messages are read and most of them are read just a few minutes after it’s sent. Wouldn’t it be great to alert your customers about today’s specials and know they see it today…or to invite them to come back to your business EXACTLY at the time you want them to come back? Duffy Hobbs is a Text Message Marketing Professional who will guide you step-by-step to help you put your message into the hands of your customers.

Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 2.316

Online Fee:  Free

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21410

 

Tuesday, March 25, 2014 – Starting and Planning Your Business

This session is a combination of Business Start-up Essentials and The Business Plan. Topics include: Starting Your Small Business, Business Legal Structure and Name, Tax Responsibilities, Federal, City, and County Resources & Requirements, Business Plan Basics, Feasibility Process, Business Plan Structure, and Financial Analysis. Take this course and save some hours and money!

Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $50.00

Door Fee: $70.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21411

 

Wednesday, March 26, 2014 – The Business Plan

Whether you need a business plan to map out your plan for your business or are writing a plan because you want to expand, this is the class for you. At this workshop, our experienced instructors will teach you the components of a business plan using an interactive format in a computer lab setting. Walk away from this workshop with the start of a business plan written specifically for your business, an electronic template and resources to guide you through the process! Topics discussed in this workshop include: business plan basics, feasibility process, business plan structure, and financial analysis.

Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $40.00

Door Fee: $60.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21412

 

Thursday, March 27, 2014 – Leverage an Effective Online Sales Force: Automated, Affordable and for Everyone

Are your offline marketing and sales tactics not getting you the results you need? Do you want an automated online system that markets and closes sales for you? Come join Tim Springer, owner of Spartan Basketball for a hands-on, interactive class on how to create an automated, online sales force without hiring any extra staff! Using the same (system) that Tim has used for his own company you will:

• Develop a platform to serve and expand your businesses’ community in less than an hour a day

• Integrate your platform into social media easily to generate daily leads and sales

• Walk away with the structure of the system already implemented in your business and the potential of generating sales quickly!

Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: UTSA Downtown 501 W. César E. Chávez, Durango Bldg., Rm. 1.402

Online Fee: $30.00

Door Fee: $50.00

Registration Link: http://utsa.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=21413

Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  If you are interested in registering for any of the courses listed above, please contact Yanet Gómez Byrom or Rebecca Montalvo by phone (210) 458-2460 or via email sbdcworkshop@utsa.edu

Prism Technologies Group celebrates 10 year anniversary

By North SA Chamber Editor
Posted on by Email to a Friend

Prism Technologies GroupPrism Technologies Group, an IT managed services company recently announced its 10th anniversary, and its leadership is proud of its accomplishments and service within the San Antonio community where it conducts business-to-business offerings.

Thriving versus surviving
Prism Technologies Group has been able to thrive in the IT industry because of their business approach. Their focus is to service clients by providing solutions versus focusing on sales. “We’re not just selling hardware and software,” said Bryan Guinn, president of Prism Technologies Group. “We’re questioning if the hardware and software is going to help our clients now and in the future, and then we tailor our offerings to meet those needs.”

Guinn says Prism Technologies Group is leading edge not bleeding edge. Being that new technology emerges on the market frequently, the company monitors and evaluates it first, while simultaneously being open to utilizing new products in which stability has been proven. An example is Microsoft’s Office 365 cloud offering. “When it first came out, IT professionals were hesitant,” Guinn said. “It was stable. It worked. It made sense, and we started deploying it to show its value.” After Office 365 had been online for a couple of years, Microsoft then required all of its certified partners to use it. At this point, a majority of IT professionals had not used it; however, in the time it had been on the market, Prism Technologies Group had become Microsoft Cloud experts with a great deal of success in launching it for their customers.

Providing value
Being that Prism Technologies Group is solutions oriented, the company’s primary focus is to understand its clients business. Before they begin any engagement, Prism Technologies Group seeks a full understanding of their clients’ processes and procedures so they can provide the correct IT recommendations for business growth. “We have a client that was going to experience an increase in staff, so their first thought was to buy all new computers for the new staff members,” Guinn explained.  “Knowing that the new employees would be hired over a period of time, we discussed the purpose and function of these incoming staff members, and developed a strategy for equipping them without an initial large capital expenditure resulting in an overall cost savings to the client.”

Prism Technology Group also provides value to its clients through best practices. Having worked with a variety of industries, ranging from non-profit organizations to governmental agencies, Prism Technologies Group is able to utilize the technology for enterprise customers and apply it to small businesses to give them an advantage in the marketplace. Prism Technologies Group understands businesses start out small, and with the right technical support, they will grow to their full potential.

High performance standards
One of the reasons Prism Technologies Group has been successful these past 10 years is because of their guarantee. The company promises to improve their clients’ IT environment or they pay up. They promise to deliver up to 99.999% reliability of their installed network environment. They guarantee a 60 minute rapid response whenever there is an IT issue. They also guarantee accuracy; jobs are done correctly, on time and within budget or else they pay the difference. Lastly, the company buys back any unused recommended hardware and software.

Industry experts
In addition to their credentials as a Microsoft partner, a Cisco Channel Partner and a member of the Apple Consultants Network, Prism Technologies Group also holds honors of distinction.  The company was nominated for the 2013 Microsoft Cloud Growth Partner of the Year for the U.S. SMB Central Region; Honored with an exclusive membership to the 2013 Microsoft SMB Champions Club as a Tier 1 Partner; Awarded the 2013 Microsoft Community Connections Partner of the Year for the U.S. SMB Central Region.

About Prism Technologies Group
Prism Technologies Group has been helping businesses improve their IT operations since 2003. Bryan Guinn, president, founded the company in San Antonio while attending the University of the Incarnate Word, and he has built the business into a company that generate $1.2 million in sales annually. Headquartered in San Antonio, the company services clients nationwide. The company consists of ten employees, some of which are located in Eagle Pass.

Chairman’s Vision for 2014

By North SA Chamber Editor
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Turner_Annie-Chairmans-photo-PRAnnie Turner
VP/Business Banking Manager, Wells Fargo
2014 Chairman of the Board, North SA Chamber

Annie Turner was born and raised in Laredo, Texas and was one of eight children. She attended Baylor University where she earned a degree in journalism, and one summer thereafter started working at what she thought would be a temporary job as a teller at Wells Fargo Bank.

Early in her banking career, Annie was offered a role to profile prospective borrowers and prepare loan packages to present for approval. Having an appreciation for small business – her mother a pharmacist and entrepreneur, Annie melded her knowledge of small business and journalism skills to help borrowers build persuasive, informative presentations to get loans and access capital to help grow their small businesses. She stayed on that track throughout her career, and Annie has progressed with Wells Fargo as a manager of lenders assisting small businesses for over 33 years.

She and her husband relocated to San Antonio 15 years ago to raise their family in Boerne. Annie’s management role at Wells Fargo provided her the opportunity to volunteer, and so began her service with Chambers. She served on the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber board for five years, and then transitioned to service on the North SA Chamber board.

Annie says, “The most rewarding part of my Chamber service is the recognition of what small business owners – particularly women business owners – have done in our community.”

Her mother was widowed when Annie was a teenager, and was the sole provider for eight children – of which six were under the age of 16. “I grew up with seven siblings and all of them are professionals. Four are physicians, two are nurses and I am a banker. So education is really important in my family, and I am especially passionate about leadership and helping others along to success and personal and professional growth,” Annie explains.

40 Years of Keeping Bexar County Strong
Now in her sixth year of board service to the North SA Chamber and during the organization’s 40th Anniversary, Annie has demonstrated that commitment through her Chairmanship of the Leadership & Professional Development Council, overseeing the Enterprising Women’s Conference and Leadership Lab programs, and now through her role as the 2014 Chairman of the Board – and as only the seventh woman in 40 years to lead the 1,300-member strong organization.

In 2014, Annie will guide the North SA Chamber to focus on veterans, workforce development, small business advancement, the millennial workforce and community collaboration to promote our mission to strengthen member businesses and the community through the delivery of advocacy, networking, recognition, leadership and professional development programs.

Heeding the Call to Support Veterans
In 2013, the North SA Chamber and our nonprofit arm, Lead SA, recognized USAA chief executive Maj. Gen. Joe Robles, USA Ret. with the Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. Salute to Excellence Award. In his acceptance remarks, Gen. Robles said, “You gave me an award, and I’m giving you a challenge.” Gen. Robles appealed to the business community to hire veterans and help them transition from military life to the civilian workforce, and the North SA Chamber is heeding the call.

“This is ‘Military City,’ we should be doing more to offer resources for this segment of our workforce,” says Annie.

The North SA Chamber’s first response is to offer a discounted level of membership for individual and retired veterans, and veteran-owned businesses.

“We have already noted an influx in veteran inquiries in 2013,” Annie explains. “The North SA Chamber recognized the opportunity to expand our relationship with veterans and began offering discounted memberships, and now we’re going to formalize that commitment to all veterans seeking the resources we provide,” she adds.

Workforce Development
Additionally, the North SA Chamber will continue to meet the needs of businesses for a readied workforce and ongoing professional development. First, the North Chamber launched a Job Bank in late 2013, and the online search tool is a free community resource to job seekers.

“We will promote the Job Bank heavily in 2014 to veterans, transitioning professionals, college students and recent grads,” says Annie. In this way, the North Chamber will help veterans to access career opportunities and assist member employers with an additional no-cost tool to access a larger pool of applicants.

“So many business owners are looking for qualified people. If you have a qualified workforce, then that just improves the community overall,” says Annie. “The North SA Chamber can help veterans, millennial workers and just about every professional in any interest area to access resources to sharpen their professional skills and build relationships through our various instructional and networking events and volunteer opportunities,” she adds.

The North Chamber offers a myriad of instructional programs starting with Leadership Lab, the Chamber’s nine-month leadership development academy. Annie describes Leadership Lab as “our top tool to help our member businesses develop the leaders in their companies, retain talent and aid in succession plan strategies.” Additionally, the Chamber will continue to offer a wide range of education topics from technology and finance to sustainability, women’s leadership, social media, small business operations and more.

Moreover, recognizing the growing time scarcity among busy professionals, the North SA Chamber is exploring online training offerings to provide a more vast range of course topics and to accommodate members’ busy schedules.

Small Business Advancement
Approximately 75% of the North SA Chamber’s membership is comprised of small businesses, and the organization will continue to advance small business in the coming year. Since 1996, the Chamber has been recognizing the efforts and accomplishments of entrepreneurs through a program that started as the Pride in Progress Awards and evolved to become the Small Business Leaders Awards (SBLA). Having grown tremendously over almost two decades, SBLA honors small businesses across multiple categories including innovation, community service, employee relations, career and business achievement, and new in 2014 – veteran-owned businesses and smaller non-profits who operate much like a small business.

Annie’s husband is also an entrepreneur, and she says, “I know what it takes to run a business and how hard they work. They need the resources a Chamber provides. That’s why I love my job as a banker and my service to the Chamber so much.”

Through Annie’s direct experience in lending at Wells Fargo, she says that more than ever millennial workers are interested in starting their own businesses. According to Forbes magazine, in 2013 millennial workers were making the transition to freelancing and business ownership in droves. “Previous generations wanted the security of a 9 to 5 job. Millennial professionals are more creative and independent, and they want to work on their terms,” she adds.

Annie sees an opportunity for the North SA Chamber to expand its reach to attract millennial professionals to make the North Chamber their Chamber of choice. “We’re working to offer new individual levels of membership for college students, recent grads and transitioning professionals,” says Annie. “We are seeing much younger professionals, and it’s important to get them engaged early on,” she adds. Annie says the key is to connect with them across social media and online channels. An area of professional development that Annie feels is just as important for mature businesses to adopt.

“Business needs to get on the train with social media. It’s our responsibility to educate them and show them how,” she says. This is an area the North SA Chamber addresses through Social U, a social media university for savvy marketers and professionals with a vested interest in the profitability of marketing initiatives.

Advocating for Business
Founded in 1974, the North SA Chamber had the foresight to anticipate San Antonio’s future growth beyond downtown, and we’ve continued to play a major role in shaping and defining solutions for urban and quality of life issues including transportation infrastructure, water quality and supply, energy diversification, economic and workforce development, health and wellness, technology and education.

The North SA Chamber government affairs committee and board will work with members and community partners to develop, present and endorse a Legislative Agenda for the 2015 session. “We have a long history of supporting the advancement of higher education in our immediate community,” explains Annie. “The next Legislative Session will be no different. We will advocate for Tuition Revenue Bonds for growing state institutions including Texas A&M – San Antonio, the University of Texas at San Antonio, and the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio.” As with the 2013 Legislative Session, the North SA Chamber will look to partner with other Chambers of Commerce, trade and civic groups to ensure “our voice is loud, clear and unified before legislators that higher education is a need for our community.”

Once again, we will advocate for funds for transportation infrastructure and work with the San Antonio Mobility Coalition and Alamo Regional Mobility Authority to press for funding alternatives for projects that best leverage our resources and benefit the residents and businesses of Bexar County and surrounding areas.

Annie’s position is that, “Roads and highways are a productivity issue. Time is money. Our workforce is much more productive in the office than they are sitting in a car.” She says well-planned roadways attract business to San Antonio and keep them here. “It’s a quality of life issue with economic impact consequences.”

Be a part of it.
Over the last 40 years, the North SA Chamber has left an indelible mark on the city with our culture of entrepreneurialism and cooperation. Today, the North SA Chamber has earned a reputation as one of the state’s most dynamic and inclusive trade organizations. Resolute in our efforts to advocate for business and education, recognize deserving leaders and provide professional development – we deliver opportunities to make results-oriented business-to-business connections.

“I invite each of our members to do what they can to engage in that 40-year legacy and join us in our efforts,” says Annie. “The North SA Chamber has only come this far because of the commitment, dedication and action of our volunteers. We need your involvement more than ever. Thank you to our board, volunteers, members and supporters for all you do to keep Bexar County strong. And I look forward to working with you and serving you in 2014!”

 

Lead your company to new heights!

By North SA Chamber Editor
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UTSA_BBE LogoThe Spurs didn’t get to winning championship status in a day. So what is it that makes their team so special and what does this have to do with small business? If you want to learn the same principles that make the Spurs such a unique team and apply it to your small business, keep reading!

The UTSA Small Business Development Center (UTSA SBDC) has partnered with Holt Development Services (a division of HOLT CAT) to conduct a seven-week intensive strategic leadership program designed to support established, strong companies achieve even more growth. Holt Development Services, the organization that used the Values Based Leadership Model to grow Holt® Cat into a 1 billion dollar company and to help the San Antonio Spurs win four NBA championships, will facilitate the program.

UTSA SBDC is now taking applications for their spring 2014 program which will run from February 18th through April 8th (with the exception of March11th due to spring break). Offered annually, the program’s sessions will be held every Tuesday from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm and topics will center on leadership, marketing, human resources and ethics. More detailed information can be found at http://mybbe.org  You can also contact Yanet Byrom by calling (210) 458-2746 or by emailing Yanet.byrom@utsa.edu.

About the Small Business Development Center
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is dedicated to creating jobs, growing businesses and fostering economic development. The SBDC serves all populations based on client needs, local business trends and individual business requirements.

The SBDC supports San Antonio and 10 surrounding counties with one on one business advising and training geared towards the small business owner’s experience and needs. Experienced business advisors have expertise in marketing and sales strategy, budget promotions and analysis, cash flow management, brand development and many more topics.

Small Business Leaders Awards Chair: Marilyn Hartmann, Security Service Federal Credit Union

By North SA Chamber Editor
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Hartmann_Marilyn-spotlightAbout the Company: Security Service Federal Credit Union is a $6.5 billion credit union, the largest credit union in Texas and the eighth largest in the U.S., with its corporate headquarters located in San Antonio, Texas. Security Service serves more than 850,000 members in Texas, Colorado, Utah and around the world. It has built a reputation of strength, stability and convenience by offering its members financial soundness, unmatched hours of service and competitive financial products and services. Marilyn has over 30 years of experience, and as Manager she is responsible for overseeing Commercial Loan Production at the credit union and meeting their commercial member’s needs.

About the Program: The SBLA program recognizes the very best of our community’s business leaders. Qualifying nominees must have less than 100 employees to be considered and awards are presented in a number of categories including new business, community service, employee relations, business innovation, career achievement, business achievement, business advocacy and overall achievement.

Personally Speaking: Marilyn has served on the Ambassadors committee for eight years; she chaired the Small Business Leaders Awards committee in 2012; she chaired the How 2 Series committee in 2011; and chaired the Ambassadors committee in 2010. She served on the Gala committee, and Marilyn was named the Ambassador of the Year in 2006, 2007 and 2008. She says, “The chamber offers tremendous networking opportunities and direct benefits from being actively involved. This is where I have chosen to focus the majority of my business-related volunteer hours on an ongoing basis.”

Enhance Your Business Capacity! Enroll in the City of San Antonio Bonding Assistance and Mentor Protégé Programs

By North SA Chamber Editor
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city of sa economic development dept logoThe City of San Antonio is now accepting applications for the upcoming session of the Business Empowerment Plan, which starts on May 7, 2013. The Business Empowerment Plan is composed of the City of San Antonio Bonding Assistance and Mentor Protégé Programs.

Need help with bonding? Join the Bonding Assistance Program!
The City of San Antonio Bonding Assistance Program helps participants understand bonding requirements and manage their business and personal credit in ways that increase their bonding capacity and thereby increase their likelihood of participating in City contracts. Visit besanantonio.com to apply!

Learn business practices of Industry leaders by Joining the Mentor Protégé Program!
The City of San Antonio Mentor Protégé Program connects small, minority and women-owned businesses with more-established and successful firm owners and managers for guidance and training in areas such as office procedures, estimating and bidding, bookkeeping and accounting, management of funds, project management, supplier relationships, bonding and insurance, etc. Visit besanantonio.com to apply!

Participants in the Bonding Assistance or Mentor-Protégé Programs also receive three hours of free business counseling!

Eligibility
To participate in the Bonding Assistance and Mentor Protégé Programs, firms must have a significant business presence in the San Antonio Metropolitan Statistical Area, as defined in the City’s Small Business Economic Development Advocacy (SBEDA) Ordinance: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina or Wilson counties. In addition, firms must be certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) through the South Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (SCTRCA).There is a reimbursable enrollment fee of $100, which is refunded upon completion of courses.

Please visit besanantoino.com for more information on the Business Empowerment Plan, including class dates, featured business stories and applications. If you have any questions, please contact Janice Wehrman, Coordinator of Occupational Programs, Alamo Colleges, at 210-485-0818 or by email, jwehrman1@alamo.edu.

Broadway Bank Launches Family Business Resource Center

By North SA Chamber Editor
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BB123003C_WEB_FBRCBannerKeys_300x250-01If you are a family business and looking for a place where you can connect with other family businesses, share ideas, find solutions to common problems, and access information on critical issues, Broadway Bank’s Family Business Resource Center is here for you. The resource center is comprised of several dynamic components, including a specially designed website, regularly scheduled informational events and family business networking opportunities.

The website provides useful family business management tools and techniques. It includes topics, such as leadership, strategic practices, and family perspectives. Registered members get full access to a library of articles, white papers, workbooks, and helpful links. The website also features ‘Ask an Expert,’ where questions can be submitted for advice and guidance on a number of subjects.

Broadway Bank has launched the Family Business Resource Center for family businesses in San Antonio and surrounding communities. The Family Business Resource Center is the vision of the Cheever family — Broadway Bank’s founding family — and their desire to benefit other family businesses.

“Small and family-owned businesses have always been the backbone of the economy, and many of them lose their way in the early years. With more than 71 years of history, we want to share our experiences with other family businesses and help them overcome potential hurdles to long-term success,” said Charles E. Cheever Jr., chairman emeritus of Broadway Bank.

A variety of educational and networking sessions are available for registered members. In 2013, we plan to offer a number of events for members, including a panel discussion about the new tax laws and the implications for family businesses, as well as a lunch and learn seminar about the different “roles and responsibilities” in family businesses. Join the conversation by registering at bbfbrc.com and see how Broadway Bank can help you and your family business.

Tips for Closing a Sales Deal

By North SA Chamber Editor
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gfcu logoPracticing sales techniques to become an effective closer is vital to any business development efforts. Here are a few tips to consider when you’re working any business deal:

NOW is the time
Often, people commit to deals as soon as they can get around to it. You’ll be more likely to refocus their attention by creating a sense of urgency. Try tactics such as a small discount or service agreement.

Go further than “Yes”
There are a lot of obstacles that can arise between the time when someone says “Yes” and actually signs the dotted line, such as having second thoughts or the competition moving in. If you’ve received a verbal interest and commitment, strive to get them to complete a written agreement so you can continue moving forward.

Showoff a little
Throughout the sales cycle, stay on top of mind by funneling helpful new information about your business. This could be a new product release, a recent news story or even a client testimonial.

Stop talking and listen
Avoid making your pitch a monologue. Open your ears and listen to the target’s needs and wants so you can customize your solutions for them.

Avoid tricks
If you feel the need to bend the truth, it’s probably time to re-evaluate the relationship. If you can’t offer them true value, you’re most likely not in a good position to close any deal.

For the latest Small Business tips and articles, visit our Small Business blog.