National Small Business Week 2024

National Small Business Week (NSBW) is coming up fast! This year, we will be joining the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in celebrating our small businesses during the week of April 28th through May 4th.

The SBA has been celebrating NSBW for over 60 years. The week is a celebration of the critical contributions of America's entrepreneurs and small business owners. Some of the ways to get involved include participation in the Virtual Summit and recognizing the small businesses and entrepreneurs in our communities. There are also other upcoming resources and events for the region's entrepreneurs. Check them out!

NSBW Virtual Summit

The SBA  and SCORE are hosting a free, 2-day virtual summit where attendees can meet fellow business owners and entrepreneurs, and get expert advice. This year's event will be happening Tuesday, August 30th and Wednesday, May 1st. The event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms, and expert business advice from SCORE mentors. Though the event is free for established and aspiring business owners alike, attendees must register prior to the event.

Increasing the Value of Your Business

Northwest Bank and Northwest Wealth Management is hosting an event to help business owners and entrepreneurs learn about ways to enhance the value of their businesses, and discuss succession planning considerations to best meet goals and objectives. This event will be held on Wednesday, May 15th at the Majestic Pavilion in Arnolds Park. The event will start with a social at 5:30 p.m. with the presentation to start at 6:00 p.m. Whether you anticipate your business being one of more than 50% of the privately-owned businesses expected to change hands over the next 10 years, or if you are simply interested in continuing to grow the value of what, for many, is your family's largest asset, this informative session is for you! Register by May 1st at www.NW.bank/Succession or my contacting Sara Cornell at scornell@nw.bank or 712-336-1036.

State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Programs, Lunch & Learn

April 23^rd, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Hub 712, 603 North Adams Street, Carroll, IA

Did you know that Iowa has a $96 million investment from the Department of Treasury to support Iowa's small businesses, including startups, manufacturers, and businesses owned by veterans and individuals from diverse backgrounds? Join us for a free lunch-and-learn informational panel event at Hub 712 on Tuesday, April 23rd to learn about the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) programs. Registration is required to attend this event. To learn more or register, visit:
https://forms.gle/6673XaMzDPncNBSv7

EmpowerHER Summit - Unveiling Opportunities for Women Entrepreneurs!

April 24^th, 6 – 8 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Saints Center for Culture and the Arts, 320 N Fremont St, Stuart, IA 

Calling all women entrepreneurs, both experienced and aspiring!  Special Guest Speaker & Panel Moderator: Debi Durham, Director of Iowa Economic Development Authority
What to Expect:  Hear inspiring stories from five women business owners.  Learn about their successes, challenges, and Iowa resources that have helped them grow their businesses.
No cost to attend, but registration will be required. Space will be limited to 50 registrations. Click here to register.