Event Lineup

Event Q&A's

Everything you need to know about SBW events.
Who should attend?

SBW is designed for:

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs & new startups
  • Established small business owners
  • Side-hustlers ready to grow
  • Nonprofit leaders and mission-based founders
  • Anyone interested in scaling, marketing, funding, hiring, or operations

If you're working to strengthen your business, SBW is for you.

Do I need to own a business to attend?

No! Some attendees are:

  • Exploring entrepreneurship
  • Planning a launch
  • In the early stages of building their idea

SBW is intentionally inclusive.

How much does it cost to attend?

Many SBW events are free or low-cost, depending on the host organization and event type. Some workshops may require registration fees or ticket purchases.

Each event listing will include pricing details so you can choose what works best for you.

Do I have to attend all week?

Not at all. SBW is built so you can pick-and-choose events that match your goals, schedule, and stage of business.

Even attending just 1–2 sessions can deliver major value.

What can I expect from the Business Expo (Wednesday)?

The Business Expo is your chance to:

  • Meet local business support organizations in one location
  • Learn what resources are available (often at no cost)
  • Connect with funding, mentoring, marketing, and technical support providers
  • Discover programs that can accelerate your growth

It’s a high ROI event for entrepreneurs who want to build relationships and find the right support.

How do I register?

 Registration is quick and easy—each event includes its own registration link within the schedule.
 

Tip: Some sessions may fill up, so we recommend registering early.

Will the schedule be updated?

Yes. SBW is a partner-powered week, so events may be added as the schedule grows.

We recommend checking the schedule regularly and subscribing to updates.

Are events offered in-person or virtual?

There will be a mix of in-person and virtual events, depending on the host organization. Each event listing will clearly identify:

  • Location (if in-person)
  • Virtual link (if online)
  • Accessibility details
What should I bring to events / the Expo?

We recommend:

  • Business cards (if you have them)
  • A notebook or notes app
  • A short intro pitch about your business
  • Questions you want answered (funding, marketing, etc.)

And most importantly: be ready to connect.

What if I’m not sure where to start?

You’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed.

If you're unsure what to attend: Start with the Resource Fair and one-two workshop that match your top need:

  • “I need more customers.”
  • “I need funding.”
  • “I need clarity on next steps.”
  • “I need connections.”

SBW is designed to help you take the next right step.

Who is organizing Small Biz Week?

SBW is a collaborative initiative organized by trusted small business support partners across the region, including chambers of commerce and nonprofit organizations that serve entrepreneurs year-round.

How can I stay informed?

You can:

  • Bookmark the landing page
  • Follow SBW partner organizations on social media
  • Subscribe to email updates
Is SBW only for certain industries?

No. SBW is designed for entrepreneurs across: Retail, service businesses, trades, tech, creatives, consultants, food & beverage, nonprofits, and more.