Construction Law Academy, S1: Understanding and Negotiating Contract Terms
2021-02-23 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago)
Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Contractor’s Resource Center for its 3-part, signature series, the “Construction Law Academy.” It is imperative that construction contractors learn the key legal requirements that impact their business. This series will focus on understanding contract terms, partnering agreements and employment law. This series is sponsored by Chevron.
Session 1: Understanding and Negotiating Contract Terms
Tuesday, February 23 | 5:30-7:30p
Session Presenter: Denise C. Puente – Partner at Simon, Peragine, Smith, & Redfearn, L.L.P.
During this session, participants will learn some of the most common pitfalls in contract management and obtain guidance on how to avoid them through due diligence, preparation, and effective communications. Topics discussed include: Change Orders, Abandonment, Warranties, Termination, Unenforceable, etc.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1550087507608084749. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Construction Law Academy, Session 2: What Contractors Need to Know about Employment Law
2021-02-24 17:30 - 19:30
Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Contractor’s Resource Center for its 3-part, signature series, the “Construction Law Academy.” It is imperative that construction contractors learn the key legal requirements that impact their business. This series will focus on understanding contract terms, partnering agreements and employment law. This series is sponsored by Chevron.
Session 2: What Contractors Need to Know about Employment Law
Wednesday, February 24 | 5:30-7:30p
Session Presenter: E. Fredrick Preis, Jr. – Partner at Breazeale, Sachse & Wilson, L.L.P., New Orleans
It is vitally important that entrepreneurs in construction become aware of and comply with the employment laws that are relevant to the industry. During this session, hear from an experienced employment law attorney about updates to employment law and how your business may be impacted. This session will also help to dispel the many employment law myths that exist, particularly relating to contractors vs. employees, and overtime and minimum wage laws.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5781743824569238285. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Resilient Restart EBR Info Session
2021-02-25 10:00 - 11:30
Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and the City of Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish recognize the challenges that local businesses are facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet the short-term financial needs of microenterprises and small businesses, the Resilient Restart EBR: Small Business Micro-grants Program offers one-time, micro-grants of $2,500 to eligible entities that have been impacted by COVID-19. Recipients may use these funds for rent, utilities, inventory, accounts payable, fixed costs, employee wages and benefits.
To learn more about Resilient Restart EBR, please join us on February 25th from 10:00-11:30a CT for a special webinar session. During this session, potential applicants will learn more about the program’s eligibility requirements and the application process. If you have questions about the required documentation, we encourage you to join. To register for this event, please click here. Additional sessions will be held as well.
This program is activated by the CARES Act through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Program with additional funding from Investar Bank, GMFS LLC, Postelthwaite & Netterville, and ExxonMobil Baton Rouge. This program is being administered by the Urban League of Louisiana.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1903748721123876108. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Construction Law Academy, Session 3: Partnering Agreements
2021-02-25 17:30 - 19:30
Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Contractor’s Resource Center for its 3-part, signature series, the “Construction Law Academy.” It is imperative that construction contractors learn the key legal requirements that impact their business. This series will focus on understanding contract terms, partnering agreements and employment law. This series is sponsored by Chevron.
Session 3: Increasing Capacity through Partnering Agreements
Thursday, February 25 | 5:30-7:30p
Session Presenter: Daya Naef, Attorney and Legal Consultant, Daya Naef, LLC
During this session, attendees will gain insights into the dynamics of partnering agreements, as well as the specific types of partnering agreements, which include joint ventures and mentor-protege relationships. Attendees will walk away with new perspectives on risk mitigation, including the key elements of a partnering contract that must be considered.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6712390257528564237. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

The History of Black Entrepreneurship in NOLA
2021-02-26 11:00 - 12:00
In honor of Black History Month, GNO, Inc., in partnership with the Urban League of Louisiana and New Orleans Regional Black Chambers of Commerce, is hosting a webinar to discuss the dynamic history of black entrepreneurship in the Greater New Orleans region on Friday, Feb. 26 from 11am-12pm. The webinar will include a presentation from Jonn Hankins, President of the New Orleans Master Crafts Guild and former Executive Director of the New Orleans African American Museum, and Malik Bartholomew, historian and owner of Know NOLA Tours, LLC. It will culminate with a fireside chat with the family of Oliver Bush Sr., the first Black man to own a Texaco service station in Louisiana, open a credit union in the Ninth Ward, and manage a Louisiana life insurance company.

Register at https://gnoinc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_83zXjfz1RpmLxSABv6lrwQ

QuickBooks Online, Session 1: Set Up Your Account the Right Way
2021-03-02 18:00 - 20:30
As a business owner, having your financials in order is the most important step to running your business effectively and profitability. The start of the New Year brings a new opportunity to get your accounting system and processes set up the right way. Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation for this special series to learn the foundations for setting up QuickBooks online, managing everyday transactions and financial reports, and the key concepts and tasks that you must know for ongoing maintenance. At the close of the series, participants attending all 3 sessions will receive 6 hours of customized, one-on-one QuickBooks Online training and maintenance support from a Financial Advisor.
This program is sponsored by the United Way Worldwide and BET COVID-19 Relief Effort.
During this session, learn how to get started with QuickBooks Online and receive guidance on the entire setup process. Participants will learn how to how to add your business information, which accounting method to use, how to setup and pull data in from your bank, and so much more! This is a foundational course that will help you establish a solid baseline for your accounting system.
This special session will be facilitated by Lori Jackson, Owner of MSC Financial Services. Lori is a Financial Educator and Coach who helps empower individuals through financial literacy to reach their fullest potential.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5219807621153744399. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

QuickBooks Online, Session 2: Everyday Transactions & Financial Reports
2021-03-03 18:00 - 20:30
As a business owner, having your financials in order is the most important step to running your business effectively and profitability. The start of the New Year brings a new opportunity to get your accounting system and processes set up the right way. Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation for this special series to learn the foundations for setting up QuickBooks online, managing everyday transactions and financial reports, and the key concepts and tasks that you must know for ongoing maintenance. At the close of the series, participants attending all 3 sessions will receive 6 hours of customized, one-on-one QuickBooks Online training and maintenance support from a Financial Advisor.
This program is sponsored by the United Way Worldwide and BET COVID-19 Relief Effort.
During this session, participants will learn how to process transactions QuickBooks Online. As a business owner, this is imperative in understanding your sales and expenses, and managing your cash flow. Participants will learn how to customize invoices, create sales receipts, receive and pay money. For those that sell products, this session will also cover how to use QuickBooks Online to track inventory and sales taxes.
This special session will be facilitated by Lori Jackson, Owner of MSC Financial Services. Lori is a Financial Educator and Coach who helps empower individuals through financial literacy to reach their fullest potential.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8358607654221775887. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Resilient Restart EBR Info Session
2021-03-04 09:30 - 11:30
Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and the City of Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish recognize the challenges that local businesses are facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet the short-term financial needs of microenterprises and small businesses, the Resilient Restart EBR: Small Business Micro-grants Program offers one-time, micro-grants of $2,500 to eligible entities that have been impacted by COVID-19. Recipients may use these funds for rent, utilities, inventory, accounts payable, fixed costs, employee wages and benefits.
To learn more about Resilient Restart EBR, please join us on March 4th from 10:00-11:3ap CT for a special webinar session. During this session, potential applicants will learn more about the program’s eligibility requirements and the application process. If you have questions about the required documentation, we encourage you to join. To register for this event, please click here. Additional sessions will be held as well.
This program is activated by the CARES Act through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Program with additional funding from Investar Bank, GMFS LLC, Postelthwaite & Netterville, and ExxonMobil Baton Rouge. This program is being administered by the Urban League of Louisiana.
There is no cost to attend this session; however, registration is required, so register today!

Increasing PPP Access to Small Businesses in Underserved Communities
2021-03-04 13:00 - 14:30
The Biden-Harris administration is announcing several reforms to increase access to the PPP to the nation’s smallest businesses and those that have been left behind in previous relief efforts. These efforts will extend much-needed resources to help small businesses survive, reopen, and rebuild. Recently announced updates include:
– Instituting a 14-day period during which only businesses with fewer than 20 employees can apply for relief through the Program.
– Helping sole proprietors, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals receive more financial support.
– Consistent with a bipartisan bill, eliminating an exclusionary restriction that prevents small business owners with prior non-fraud felony convictions from obtaining relief through the Paycheck Protection Program.
– Eliminating an exclusionary restriction that prevents small business owners who are delinquent on their federal student loans from obtaining relief through the Paycheck Protection Program.
– Ensuring access for non-citizen small business owners who are lawful U.S. residents by clarifying that they may use Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) to apply for relief.
Join the Urban League of Louisiana, Hope Credit Union, and the SBA Louisiana District Office on Thursday, March 4, from 1:00-2:30p CST for a special webinar to learn more about these enhancements to the Paycheck Protection Program, eligibility requirements, required documentation and how to apply! There will also be time for Q&A.
Presenters include:
– Kathy Saloy, Senior Vice President Community Economic Development Hope Enterprise Corporation
– Jo Ann Lawrence, Deputy Director, Louisiana District Office, U.S. Small Business Administration
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1071630625177884941. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

QuickBooks Online, Session 3: Ongoing Accounting Tasks & Maintenance
2021-03-04 18:00 - 20:30
As a business owner, having your financials in order is the most important step to running your business effectively and profitability. The start of the New Year brings a new opportunity to get your accounting system and processes set up the right way. Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation for this special series to learn the foundations for setting up QuickBooks online, managing everyday transactions and financial reports, and the key concepts and tasks that you must know for ongoing maintenance. At the close of the series, participants attending all 3 sessions will receive 6 hours of customized, one-on-one QuickBooks Online training and maintenance support from a Financial Advisor.
During this session, participants will be guided through a deeper understanding of the reporting process in QuickBooks Online and how to set up your Chart of Accounts for optimal clarity into your business financials. Participants will learn how to run the three primary financial reports (income statement, balance sheet, statement of cash flows), how to read these reports, how to reconcile accounts, and how to create custom fields to track income/expenses. Attendees will also learn how to run other reports that are specific to your business that will help with optimizing operations.
This special session will be facilitated by Lori Jackson, Owner of MSC Financial Services. Lori is a Financial Educator and Coach who helps empower individuals through financial literacy to reach their fullest potential.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/569700268405512207. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Advanced Marketing for Entrepreneurs, S1: Brand Power-Start with Your Why
2021-03-16 12:30 - 14:30
Branding is hard – for any business – in part because it is not as well understood as many businesses think. But for smaller businesses, it is even harder because it requires resources and skills you don’t normally have in-house. During this session, entrepreneurs will learn the fundamental truths about branding such as the difference between “branding” and “visual identity.” This workshop will also help to clarify some of the confusion and provide some direction on how to make your own business stronger inside and out with some specific steps on developing (or re-developing) your own approach to branding.
About the Facilitator: Brandon C. Armant
Brandon C. Armant has nearly twenty years of experience in public relations, media relations, marketing, crisis management, and journalism; and he serves as the CEO and President of BAMM | A Communications Company that he founded in 2012. Brandon has also served as a freelance Community News Columnist for Nola.com | The Times-Picayune, Louisiana’s leading source for print and online news and information; and he is the host of The Blueprint, a podcast and radio show that features professionals who are excelling and advancing within their respective industries.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered for the webinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8753137714836949773. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements.
To become a Certified SEBD, click here. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

Advanced Marketing for Entrepreneurs, S2: Your Digital Marketing Strategy
2021-03-18 12:30 - 14:30
Digital marketing is the easiest solution for small businesses to become the talk of town. A digital marketing campaign can include SEO, email marketing, influencer marketing, mobile marketing (via text or media), PPC, video marketing, electronic billboards, affiliate marketing, in-app mobile advertisements and more. During this session, entrepreneurs will take a deep dive into the most up-to-date trends in digital marketing and how they change the competitive landscape and impact sales. In addition, participants will learn about the most effective strategies and tools that should be used to maximize your online presence and impact your bottom line.
About the Facilitator: Brandon C. Armant
Brandon C. Armant has nearly twenty years of experience in public relations, media relations, marketing, crisis management, and journalism; and he serves as the CEO and President of BAMM | A Communications Company that he founded in 2012. Brandon has also served as a freelance Community News Columnist for Nola.com | The Times-Picayune, Louisiana’s leading source for print and online news and information; and he is the host of The Blueprint, a podcast and radio show that features professionals who are excelling and advancing within their respective industries.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered for the webinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6857901825458536716. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements.
To become a Certified SEBD, click here. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

Grow with Google, Session 1: Reach Customers Online with Google
2021-03-19 11:00 - 12:30
Learn how your business can be found online with Google. This workshop explains how Google Search works and how you can improve a website’s visibility with Search Engine Optimization (SEO). The session also introduces products like Google My Business, Google Trends, Search Console, Google Analytics, Google Ads, and more.
In this workshop, we’ll discuss best practices for:
• Improving your website’s visibility in Google’s organic search results, on all devices
• Creating a free Google My Business listing
• Advertising your business on Google
There is no cost attend; however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your seat!

Advanced Marketing for Entrepreneurs, S3: Increasing Sales
2021-03-23 12:30 - 14:30
For entrepreneurs, the #1 goal in marketing is to reach consumers at the moments that most influence their purchasing decisions. For optimal influence, businesses can leverage the customer buying process – the journey your customer goes through before buying your product. Today, with explosion of product choices and digital channels, coupled with the emergence of an increasingly discerning, well-informed consumer, businesses must take a more sophisticated approach to navigating this environment to capture all touch points and key buying factors. During this session, entrepreneurs will learn the key components of the customer decision journey and how they can leverage this process to increase sales.
About the Facilitator: Brandon C. Armant
Brandon C. Armant has nearly twenty years of experience in public relations, media relations, marketing, crisis management, and journalism; and he serves as the CEO and President of BAMM | A Communications Company that he founded in 2012. Brandon has also served as a freelance Community News Columnist for Nola.com | The Times-Picayune, Louisiana’s leading source for print and online news and information; and he is the host of The Blueprint, a podcast and radio show that features professionals who are excelling and advancing within their respective industries.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered for the webinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3832217349633198864. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements.
To become a Certified SEBD, click here. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

Advanced Marketing for Entrepreneurs, S4: Increase Sales & Retain Customers
2021-03-25 12:30 - 14:30
Consumers have become increasingly dependent on social media platforms to identify new sources of products and services and to share information about their experiences with businesses that have patronized, good or bad. Now, more than ever, entrepreneurs must be very strategic and deliberate about offering quality products and services and delivering exceptional customer service at every single touchpoint, in-person and online.
During this session, entrepreneurs will learn essential strategies for improving customer service including:
– Developing a customer service strategy and plan of action
– Integrating customer service into the company culture
– How to train and engage employees in the customer service process
– Retaining clients and creating brand ambassadors
– Plus other special topics and considerations
Participants will also be guided through a process mapping exercise to identify opportunities for improvement within their customer engagement process. Learn how even the smallest of changes to your customer service process can have an exponential impact on your bottom line (the butterfly effect).
About the Facilitator: Brandon C. Armant
Brandon C. Armant has nearly twenty years of experience in public relations, media relations, marketing, crisis management, and journalism; and he serves as the CEO and President of BAMM | A Communications Company that he founded in 2012. Brandon has also served as a freelance Community News Columnist for Nola.com | The Times-Picayune, Louisiana’s leading source for print and online news and information; and he is the host of The Blueprint, a podcast and radio show that features professionals who are excelling and advancing within their respective industries.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered for the webinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4703812311599597583. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements.
To become a Certified SEBD, click here. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

Regions Bank Financial Wellness, Session 1: Smart Money Habits + The Importance of Saving
2021-03-31 10:00 - 11:30
Managing your money can be an intimidating thought. Being financially responsible involves control, planning, and having a strategy in place to reach your financial goals. Learn how to establish reachable goals and develop new spending and saving habits that can help you increase your income and decrease spending. In addition, everyone knows you should be saving, but not everyone knows how to initiate and commit to a savings plan. Discover why it is important to save, and realize that you can make your money work for you.
This workshop will answer these big questions: – What are the steps for setting financial goals? – How can you track your daily spending habits? – Are there ways to increase your income and decrease your spending? – Why is it important to set a financial goal and save? – What can you do to help your money grow? – How can you create a savings plan?
During this session, a Regions associate will walk small businesses through the answers to these questions and provide guidance to get you on the road to financial well being. This webinar is a part of the Regions Next Step Seminar Series.
There is no cost to attend; however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your seat!
https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1399526983075284751

Get Access to UPS Shipping and Insurance Plans for Your Small Business
2021-03-31 15:00 - 16:00
The National Urban League and the Urban League of Louisiana are collaborating with UPS to offer a special promotion to support local businesses with saving time and money with access to shipping discounts and credits, and other special services. UPS is committed to putting the power of logistics to work for entrepreneurs every day by providing speed, outstanding reliability, and technology tools so that you can focus on your business – not your shipping.
If you have spent hours on the phone filing a shipping claim, spent weeks waiting for a resolution or response, or suffered a bad customer review because of a shipment “gone wrong,” UPS Capital would like to help.
UPS Capital offers a suite of customizable insurance solutions designed specifically for small businesses like you. The right shipping insurance can save you time, frustration and money. What makes it right? It needs to be customized to fit your specific needs and be optimized for how and when you ship.
In addition, UPS Capital insurance coverage is a great tool to fight against lost time and money, while protecting your company’s hard-earned reputation against bad online reviews. UPS Capital insurance policies offer:
– Ultimate flexibility on what to insure based on amount, product or location
– Quickly processed claims with most claims paid in 4 days or less
– Comprehensive, affordable and reliable coverage that eases shipping anxiety – we pay 99% of claims
– Help enhancing the post-purchase experience in the wake of a loss
Navigating shipping losses, saving time, saving money, and improving your customer experience is easier than you think. Join us to learn more from UPS representatives about the Urban League shipping promotion and insurance offerings, as well as the new UPS Capital app for Shopify users.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4113706620350457357. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Grow with Google, Session 2: Get Your Local Business on Google Search and Maps
2021-04-09 11:00 - 12:30
Showing up when customers are searching online is more important than ever. Ensure customers can find accurate, updated information about your local business on Google Search and Google Maps, no matter which device they use.
In this workshop, you will learn how to create and manage a Google business profile from start to finish. In this session, we’ll show you how to: • Create or claim your Business Profile on Google • Manage your business info across Google Search and Maps • Use Google My Business to connect with potential customers
Course Facilitator: A native of Baton Rouge, Orhan Mc Millan has been in the web development and graphic design industry for over 19 years. He is founder and managing partner of DezinsINTERACTIVE. He and his team provide award winning branding, web and marketing services to start-ups, established businesses, associations and non-profits.
There is no cost attend; however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your seat!

Start Up! Louisiana (9-Session Series)
2021-04-13 17:30 - 2021-05-11 20:30
Please note that this is a multiple-day online training series via GoToTraining and cannot be split.

Get the Help You Need to Start Your Business the Right Way!
Have you recently started your own business and realized that you need help? Are you unsure if you have explored all of the tools and resources needed to ensure your success? Would you like more in-depth assistance with your business planning? If so, Start Up! Louisiana is for you!
Start Up! Louisiana is a 9-session, online entrepreneurial training program that teaches new entrepreneurs how to launch their business ventures the right way. This series provides best practices for how to build a solid business foundation that ensures success.
Topics covered focus on developing your entrepreneurial mindset, starting lean, understanding business financials, and how to effectively market to your target customer. Participants also receive individual business counseling and access to other support services and resources needed to successfully launch and grow!
Ready to get started? Classes will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 13 – May 11, 5:30-8:30pm. There is no cost to attend this series. All classes will be held online via GoToTraining.
Schedule- Tuesday, April 13 | Session 1: Becoming an Entrepreneur
Thursday, April 15 | Session 2: The Lean Start-up Model
Tuesday, April 20 | Session 3: Understanding Business Financials
Thursday, April 22 | Session 4: The Customer Decision Journey
Tuesday, April 27 | Session 5: Marketing Your Business
Thursday, April 29 | Session 6: Exceptional Customer Service
Tuesday, May 4 | Session 7: Forecasting 101
Thursday, May 6 | Session 8: Preparing to Access Capital
Tuesday, May 11 | Session 9: Start Up! Louisiana Plan of Action

In order to attend this series, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements.
Register for the series at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/start-up-louisiana-9-session-series-tickets-146975859753
To become a Certified SEBD, click here. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

Grow with Google, Session 3: Learn the Basics of Google Ads
2021-04-23 11:00 - 12:30
In this workshop you will learn how to reach more customers and grow your business with Google Ads.
In this session, we’ll talk about: • How to create an account and set up an ad campaign • How to write great ads, refine keywords, and include ad extensions • How to measure success
Course Facilitator: Malaika Moran is the Owner and Lead Strategist for SOCIALSTEP Consulting. SOCIALSTEP provides marketing strategy and business development services for small- to mid-sized businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. Other services include: strategic planning, digital marketing, event logistics, class facilitation and public speaking. Malaika is also an Urban League of Louisiana Contract Business Advisor and Course Facilitator.
There is no cost attend; however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your seat!

Grow with Google, Session 4: Make Your Website Work for You
2021-05-07 11:00 - 12:30
In this presentation, learners will discover how to create a search-friendly website that drives user action and supports their goals. Whether launching a new website or sprucing up an old one, this workshop will help.
Course Facilitator: A native of Baton Rouge, Orhan Mc Millan has been in the web development and graphic design industry for over 19 years. He is founder and managing partner of DezinsINTERACTIVE. He and his team provide award winning branding, web and marketing services to start-ups, established businesses, associations and non-profits.
There is no cost attend; however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your seat!

Accounting Basics for Entrepreneurs
2021-05-18 10:00 - 12:00
Please register for “Accounting and Financial Management, Session 1: Accounting Basics” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8883306698244066063. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Session I: Accounting Basics
When you start a new business, accounting may be one of the topics that causes you anxiety and confusion. However, understanding the principals of accounting and effectively understanding and managing your finances is essential to profitable and sustainable business. During this session, entrepreneurs will be introduced to basic accounting principles, accounting concepts, and accounting terminology.
Some of the basic accounting terms that you will learn include revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, income statement, balance sheet, and statement of cash flows. You will become familiar with accounting debits and credits and how to record transactions. You will also learn the 3 essential financial statements and how they depict the financial health of your business at given points in time.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8883306698244066063. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements.
To become a Certified SEBD, click here. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

Strategic Planning & Financial Statements Analysis
2021-05-19 10:00 - 12:00
Please register for “Accounting and Financial Management, Session 2: Strategic Planning and Financial Statements Analysis” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7729548465288547087. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Once entrepreneurs understand the basic accounting principles and financial statements, it is important to understand your financial position in the context of your business plan, including short and long term goals. During this session, attendees will learn how to incorporate their current financial position and goals into their strategic planning process.
Attendees will also learn best practices for effectively managing finances to ensure the financial viability, profitably, and sustainability of their business. Topics include:
– Budgeting Basics
– How Not to Comingle Personal and Business Transactions
– Developing a Debt Management Plan
– Lean Operating Concepts
This series will close with a discussion on best practices for identifying financial accounting software and the right accounting/bookkeeping service provider.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7729548465288547087. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements.
To become a Certified SEBD, click here. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

Best Practices in Financial Management & Tax Planning Basics
2021-05-20 10:00 - 12:00
Please register for “Accounting and Financial Management, Session 3: Best Practices in Financial Management and Tax Planning Basics” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9141126781794930191. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
During this session, attendees will take a deeper dive into the concept of financial management as critical component of launching and growing their small businesses. Specifically, most entrepreneurs find it difficult to appropriately budget, separate personal from business accounts, properly manage debt, and operate a lean operation.
Attendees will also learn best practices for effectively managing finances to ensure the financial viability, profitably, and sustainability of their business. Topics include:
– Budgeting Basics
– How Not to Comingle Personal and Business Transactions
– Developing a Debt Management Plan
– Lean Operating Concepts
This series will close with a discussion on best practices for identifying financial accounting software and the right accounting/bookkeeping service provider.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9141126781794930191. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements.
To become a Certified SEBD, click here. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

Grow with Google, Session 5: Make Better Business Decisions with Analytics
2021-05-21 11:00 - 12:30
Learn best practices and analyze trends about how customers engage with your business online, then turn these insights into well-informed, actionable decisions.

Course Facilitator:
A native of Baton Rouge, Orhan Mc Millan has been in the web development and graphic design industry for over 19 years. He is founder and managing partner of DezinsINTERACTIVE. He and his team provide award winning branding, web and marketing services to start-ups, established businesses, associations and non-profits.

There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/3842466997228375312

LADOTD: Government Contracting 101 + DBE Certification
2021-05-26 10:00 - 12:00
Please register for “LADOTD: Government Contracting 101 + DBE Certification” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3358646696740385292. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
For small, woman-owned, minority, and disadvantaged businesses seeking government contracts and understanding the basics of how local, state and federal agencies procure products and services are critical. Understanding the bidding, award, performance, and contract management processes that support government procurement activities can be a game-changer and time-saver for your business.
During this session, small business owners will obtain key information on the procurement processes of local, state, and federal government agencies and insights on how to best position the business for successful bids and subsequent awards.
There is no cost to attend this informational webinar, however, you must be registered for the webinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3358646696740385292. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Regions Bank Financial Wellness, Session 2: Wise Use of Credit + Your Credit Report
2021-05-27 10:00 - 11:30
Using credit may be inevitable in this day and age, but how many of us use it to our greatest advantage? It is possible to use credit wisely in order to maintain a good credit score, but often it’s the being wise with credit decision making that trips us up. Learn how to use your credit wisely by knowing what it is, why it is important, and gaining an extensive knowledge of credit terms, types of loans, and details that can affect the overall health of your credit report.
During this session, participants will learn tips for establishing and maintaining healthy credit. This session will also provide insight into what is included on a credit report, how to obtain and what identifying information may be found in one. This workshop will answer these big questions:

– Why is credit so important?
– What are the basic credit terms and types of loans?
– What is a credit report and how is it used?
– How does your credit report affect your finances?
– How can you maintain or improve your credit score?
– What are some helpful tips to help you avoid credit repair scams?
During this session, a Regions associate will walk small businesses through the answers to these questions and provide guidance to get you on the road to financial wellbeing. This webinar is a part of the Regions Next Step Seminar Series.
There is no cost to attend; however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your seat:
https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7174851446233764107

Resilient Restart EBR Info Session
2021-06-02 13:00 - 14:00
Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and the City of Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish recognize the challenges that local businesses are facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet the short-term financial needs of microenterprises and small businesses, the Resilient Restart EBR: Small Business Micro-grants Program offers one-time, micro-grants of $2,500 to eligible entities that have been impacted by COVID-19. Recipients may use these funds for rent, utilities, inventory, accounts payable, fixed costs, employee wages and benefits.

To learn more about Resilient Restart EBR, please join us for a special webinar session, during which potential applicants will learn more about the program’s eligibility requirements and the application process. If you have questions about the required documentation, we encourage you to join. Register today! Additional sessions will be held, as well.
This program is activated by the CARES Act through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Program with additional funding from Investar Bank, GMFS LLC, Postelthwaite & Netterville, and ExxonMobil. This program is being administered by the Urban League of Louisiana.

For more information about the Resilient Restart EBR program, including eligibility requirements and required documents, please visit https://urbanleaguela.org/restartebr/.

Grow with Google, Session 6: Use YouTube to Grow Your Business
2021-06-04 11:00 - 12:30
Get best practices for creating a YouTube Channel and compelling video content that promotes your products and services and drives engagement with your brand.

In this workshop, we’ll discuss best practices for:
– Understanding different video formats
– How to setup a YouTube channel
– Making good creative, and how to target and measure the results

Course Facilitator:
Brandon C. Armant has nearly twenty years of experience in public relations, media relations, marketing, crisis management, and journalism; and he serves as the CEO and President of BAMM | A Communications Company that he founded in 2012.

There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/2034436673583323152

Resilient Restart EBR Info Session
2021-06-09 13:00 - 14:00
Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and the City of Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish recognize the challenges that local businesses are facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet the short-term financial needs of microenterprises and small businesses, the Resilient Restart EBR: Small Business Micro-grants Program offers one-time, micro-grants of $2,500 to eligible entities that have been impacted by COVID-19. Recipients may use these funds for rent, utilities, inventory, accounts payable, fixed costs, employee wages and benefits.

To learn more about Resilient Restart EBR, please join us for a special webinar session, during which potential applicants will learn more about the program’s eligibility requirements and the application process. If you have questions about the required documentation, we encourage you to join. Register today! Additional sessions will be held, as well.
This program is activated by the CARES Act through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Program with additional funding from Investar Bank, GMFS LLC, Postelthwaite & Netterville, and ExxonMobil. This program is being administered by the Urban League of Louisiana.

For more information about the Resilient Restart EBR program, including eligibility requirements and required documents, please visit https://urbanleaguela.org/restartebr/.

There is no cost to attend this informational webinar; however, you must be registered on GoToWebinar to participate. Please secure your spot today by visiting https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1534871368639531280. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
