City of Chicago: Free Business Education Workshops

City of Chicago: Free Business Education Workshops.

The City of Chicago, Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, (BACP) offers FREE business workshops every Wednesday and Friday at City Hall

Located at 121 N. LaSalle St., Room 805 unless indicated otherwise. You can register for a workshop by emailing BACPoutreach@cityofchicago.org or by calling 312.744.2086. ALWAYS call first to confirm. Workshops subject to change and cancellation. I have attended several of these workshops and they are all excellent. I would advise arriving early because the workshops fill up.

10/23 How to Write a Business Plan – What you need to know! 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.

Learn how to create a comprehensive business plan. It’s easier than you think when you understand all the components that get included. You’ll receive a complete list of what to include to demystify the process. Writing a solid business plan is your roadmap to business success.

10/25 Identifying Your Optimal Marketing Tactics 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. 11th Floor, Room 1103

There are many digital channels and marketing tactics to choose from that it can be overwhelming and difficult to know which ones will work best for your business or brand. This session will unpack and help integrate the following marketing tactics: Social media; Email marketing; Digital advertising; PR & media outreach; Blog content; And more!

10/30 Fighting Cybercrime and Meeting Your Cyber Security Challenges in 5 Steps 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.

Cyber crime targeting businesses is on- going and continues to be a major concern. Learn how five steps can build awareness and an action plan to deter cyber criminals and help avoid the problems that could destroy a business. This presentation uses the latest information about hackers and data breaches to educate businesses how to protect themselves. Better Business Bureau teamed with National Cyber Security Alliance and National Institute for Science & Technology, along with local cyber security experts to create a scale-able program that any size company can use to create an individualized cyber security program. This workshop is in recognition of National Cyber Security Awareness Month.

11/1 Designing Products and Services 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. 11^th Floor, Room 1103

Have you ever wanted to start a business, but don’t know where to start? This workshop is designed to help entrepreneurs craft out their business, which will position their company for the next steps of launching a business. During this interactive workshop, participants will identify what business to start and products and services to compare to their competition in their respective industries. The outcome of this workshop will equip each participant with ways to discovering their unique value proposition and SWOT analysis.

11/6 City Inspections – Ask Questions, Get Answers 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.

To operate a successful business in Chicago you need to know what it takes to maintain compliance. Officials from several City departments will provide insight on how to operate safely, stay compliant, help prepare for inspections and highlight the do’s and don’ts of operating a business.

11/8 Master Plan Workshop 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. 11th Floor, Room 1103

Presented by Vincent Williams, Director of Illinois SBDC at YWCA Metropolitan Chicago & Vice President of Economic Empowerment

In this workshop you will learn ways to navigate and create your Master Business Plan.

11/13 Contracts 101 and Negotiation Tips 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.

You were always told read everything before you sign it. But what are you supposed to be looking for? Learn about what makes a contract, how to spot red flags, and important terms every contract should have. Sometimes it takes some negotiation to get the best deal for your business. Pick up some tips on how to prepare for and tackle contract negotiations before, during, and after you get to the table.

11/15 Digital Mindset for Growth 101 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 11^th Floor, Room 1103

Learn how to change your mindset from analog to digital by translating your entrepreneurial dreams into online action for your brand and your business. We will give guidance on how to create goal-based strategies for your business that will help it become more “discoverable’ and recognized online so you can connect with customers. We will touch on creative branding, social media, YouTube and content strategies. Come ready with your mobile phone to work and learn!

11/20How to Open a Concession at O’Hare or Midway Airport 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.

Are you interested in operating a restaurant or shop at O’Hare or Midway International Airport, but don’t know where to begin? Come and learn about the Request for Proposals (RFP) process, how to operate a business at the airport, and a summary of the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program.

11/22 Get Capital for Your Small Business with Kiva and Accion 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. 11^th Floor, Room 1103

Hear from Kiva, a nonprofit that provides 0% interest loans of up to $10,000 to small business owners and entrepreneurs, and from Accion, a small business lender with loan ranges of up to $100,000 for small and existing businesses.

11/27NO WORKSHOP DUE TO HOLIDAY

11/29NO WORKSHOP DUE TO HOLIDAY

When

All Day,
Weekly on Wednesday and Friday (starting January 1, 2014)

Cost

What

City of Chicago: Free Business Education Workshops

Where