Get Access to UPS Shipping and Insurance Plans for Your Small Business
2021-03-31 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago)
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.

Resilient Restart EBR Info Session
2021-06-16 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/2437814506625029136

Urban League of Louisiana Small and Emerging Business Development Program Roundtables
2021-06-18 - 2021-08-12
The Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Roundtables, based on a shared value for peer-to-peer learning, seek to help members grow in their business and personal capabilities through monthly roundtable meetings that adhere to PeerSpectives protocols and engage every member fully.
The purpose the SEBD Roundtables is to:
-To develop the roundtable members’ abilities to make excellent decisions in the areas of their business and personal lives.
-To develop roundtable members’ abilities to make progress in the areas of their lives that lead to exceptional growth—both personally and professionally.
Our roundtable will use the language protocol as follows:
-Speak from experience rather than give advice
-Ask clarifying questions—no interrogation or “telling” others what to do
-During experience share, speak from experience
The program includes a commitment of 10 roundtable meetings between August 2021 and June 2022. 15-18 SEBD certified businesses will be accepted into the program. Sessions will take place online on Wednesdays, 1:00pm-4:00pm. Sessions will be held on the following dates:
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Wednesday, September 29, 2021
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
Wednesday, November 17, 2021
Wednesday, January 26, 2022
Wednesday, February 23, 2022
Wednesday, March 30, 2022
Wednesday, April 27, 2022
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Wednesday, June 22, 2022
In order to participate, small business owners must be certified as a Small and Emerging Business.
Not yet SEBD certified? To review eligibility criteria and to get certified, click here. Please note that most small businesses qualify and there is no cost to obtain this certification.
Already SEBD certified? To express your interest in the ULLA 2020-21 Roundtables, please email us at wbrc@urbanleaguela.org.

Grow with Google, Session 7: Connect with Customers and Manage Your Business Remotely
2021-06-18 11:00 - 12:30
Discover Google tools that can help business owners work and manage their business during this time of uncertainty. Plus, get insights on more online and timely resources for small businesses.

In this workshop, we’ll discuss:
– How to update critical business information online
– Keep customers informed
– Conduct virtual meetings
– Access important files from anywhere.

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/2981187653354311952

Regions Bank Financial Wellness, Session 3: Building Your Financial Confidence + Empower Yourself Financially
2021-06-29 10:00 - 11:30
Face your financial fears and take control of your money. Get educated on financial matters and learn how to save for the future, lower debt, prepare for emergencies, safeguard with insurance, and grow your money through investments. Being smart with your money will build your confidence so you can focus on small steps and reach all your financial goals. This workshop will answer these big questions:
– What stresses you and what motivates you about finances?
– What can you do to really take charge of your money?
– How can you educate yourself to be confident about your finances?
– Why do you need to be confident about your finances?
– What are your short-, medium-, and long-term goals?
– Why is saving important, and should your plan change over time?
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!

Grow with Google, Session 8: Collaborate, Meet, and Work Remotely
2021-07-09 11:00 - 12:30
Learn about Google tools that can help you work and stay productive no matter where you are. Plus, get tips on more free online resources to help you gain new digital skills.

In this session, we’ll show you how to:
– How to schedule and host effective virtual meetings
– Discover, collaborate on documents with others in real time
– Access your files from anywhere

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/7034900107987762192

Becoming Bankable Series: Preparing to Access Capital
2021-07-13 12:30 - 2021-07-15 14:30
Session 1: Understanding and Improving Your Personal Financial Position | Tuesday, July 13 | 12:30p-2:30p
During this workshop, participants will learn what it means to become bankable and how the personal finances of the entrepreneur are connected to the business. This session includes a deep dive into the components of a personal financial statement and why it is such a critical part of the funding package for small businesses.
Attendees will also examine the debt to income ratio versus the debt service coverage, as well as, one’s personal credit score versus the business’ credit score. This interactive session will also allow participants to begin the process of developing their own personal and business budgets to form the foundation of their financial statements.
Register for Session 1 here
Session 2: Examining Your Business’ Financial State and Needs for Growth | Wednesday, July 14 | 12:30p-2:30p
During this session, participants gain insights into how to get their business finances in order including ensuring that your balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows are accurate. Attendees will receive tips on accounting systems, banking, equity needs and other important aspects of becoming bankable.
Participants will also learn how to examine the financial needs of their business, how to convey funding needs through a strategic business plan, and how to make the case for the estimated repayment plan.
Register for Session 2 here
Session 3: Action Planning for Becoming Bankable and the Funding Package | Thursday, July 15 | 12:30p-2:30p
The final session of the series will focus on assisting participants in developing a plan of action for improving their financial position over the next 6-12 months and provides participants with final guidance on developing a funding package.
This session will also cover best practices in finalizing a loan package, obtaining support, and how to prepare for follow up questions. Common mistakes and items overlooked will be revealed so that participants know what to avoid.
Register for Session 3 here

Small Business Matters Summit 2021
2021-07-22 13:00 - 18:00 | Nunez AST Building, 3710 Paris Rd., Chalmette, LA, 70043, United States
Register today for the Small Business Matters Summit 2021 to learn best practices for preparing your business for future opportunities in St. Bernard Parish!
The event will take place at 3710 Paris Rd, Chalmette, LA 70043 in the Art, Science, and Technology Building at Nunez Community College.
The event takes place on Thursday, July 22nd, 1:00pm-6:00pm. There is no cost to attend, however, registration is required. Click here to register!

Best Practices in Corporate Contracting
2021-08-03 10:00 - 2021-08-05 11:30
Learn How to Become a Vendor of Choice for Major Corporations!

Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation for its 3-part, signature series, the “Best Practices in Corporate Contracting” sponsored by Chevron. This series will provide entrepreneurs who are seeking corporate clients with best practices for building the financial and operational capacity required to do business with medium- to large-sized corporations.

Session 1: Capacity Building for Corporate Contracts – Part 1Tuesday, August 3 | 10:00am-11:30amFacilitator: Lakeisha Robichaux, Lakeisha Robichaux, LLC
As small businesses set their site on growth, it is imperative that capacity building strategies be deployed to ensure that your firm can effectively and efficiently manage larger contracts. Access to these larger contracting opportunities is important, but the benefit is null and void if you do not have the capacity to meet the expectations of larger, more complex opportunities.
During this session, learn specific strategies for building financial and operational capacity, including:

Attracting and retaining high-quality workers
Controlling operating costs and scalability
Improving internal controls such as financial systems, inventory and human resource management platforms

REGISTER FOR SESSION 1

Session 2: Capacity Building for Corporate Contracts – Part 2Wednesday, August 4 | 10:00am-11:30amFacilitator: Nenette Lusk Gray, Lemonade Creative Marketing
During Part 2 of “Capacity Building for Corporate Contracts”, participants will gain insights into additional strategies for building financial and operational capacity to meet the needs of larger, more complex projects for corporations.
Topics include:

Cost estimating and proposal preparation
Improving project management Skills
Managing project risks
Complying with industry regulations

REGISTER FOR SESSION 2

Session 3: Leveraging Small Business CertificationsWednesday, August 4 | 10:00am-11:30amFacilitator: Nenette Lusk Gray, Lemonade Creative Marketing
This series will conclude with a look at the various small business certifications that are available to women, minority, and other firms with insights into which certifications best fit the goals of the firm.

Certifications related to the following businesses will be discussed:
Small businesses
Small disadvantaged businesses
Small woman-owned businesses
Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) businesses
Hudson Initiative
Small veteran-owned businesses
Small service-disabled veteran-owned businesses
Certified woman-owned businesses
Certified minority-owned businesses
Certified LGBT-owned businesses
Certified disability-owned businesses

REGISTER FOR SESSION 3

Register for Scale Up
2021-08-06 - 2021-08-15
Scale Up! Louisiana is a statewide, community-based, entrepreneurial education intensive hosted by Urban League of Louisiana’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. This program provides early stage, women- and minority-owned firms with the education and resources needed for scalability and profitability. In order to participate, entrepreneurs must commit to a business education program that is delivered via 11, 2.5 hour web class sessions. Participants must also commit to utilizing additional resources and services to support their business outside of the curriculum, including: individual and group counseling sessions, technical assistance, pre-recorded videos, business plan assignments, and engagement with an assigned business advisor.
The Urban League of Louisiana is working to increase access to entrepreneurship training in the communities that it serves – based on the challenges, opportunities, and small business development needs that are unique to selected communities across the state of Louisiana.
The Urban League of Louisiana, in collaboration with Mastercard, will host its fourth Scale Up! Louisiana series, online, beginning in August 2021 for eligible small businesses in the Greater New Orleans area. The series will take place via 11, 2.5 hour web sessions.
Other sponsors include AARP and Louisiana Economic Development. This series is also funded through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
In order to participate, small business owners must submit an online application including a narrative of their business goals and long-term aspirations. Phone interviews will also be conducted to determine the candidate’s commitment to the program and to growing his/her business.

Register at urbanleaguela.org/scale-up-la

Built to Last: Uncovering the Financial Potential of Black-owned Businesses
2021-08-10 - 2021-08-26
During this special online series, Black-owned small businesses will gain insights and learn concrete steps that can be taken to reach the full financial potential of their businesses.

The Urban League of Louisiana’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation understands that one of the keys to closing the racial wealth gap in the Black community is through entrepreneurship and other pathways that yield economic independence and prosperity. The COVID-19 pandemic, social injustice, and the economic downturn have presented challenges that have stunted the growth of many Black-owned small businesses, and some have even closed their doors.

This means:

rethinking your business model towards scalability, agility and resilience;
examining your revenue model and growth metrics to ensure profitability;
optimizing your pricing strategy for profit and cash flow; and
leveraging the right financial resources to meet your growth needs.

Thank you to our community supporters – Liberty Bank, Greater New Orleans, Inc., and the New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce!

Session 1: Building Scalable, Agile, and Resilient Small Businesses
Tuesday, August 10 | 1:00pm-3:00pmFacilitator: Desiree Young

Session 2: Revenue Models and Metrics
Thursday, August 12 | 1:00pm-3:00pmFacilitator: Lori Jackson

Session 3: Pricing for Profit
Tuesday, August 24 | 1:00pm-3:00pmFacilitator: Desiree Young

Session 4: Leveraging the Right Financial Resources for Growth
Thursday, August 26 | 1:00pm-3:00pmFacilitator: Lori Jackson

COVID-19 Perspectives: Session 2 - Reposition, Restructure, Recalibrate
2021-09-14 13:00 - 15:00
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted small businesses. Many businesses have had to close or limit operations, lost revenue, and terminate or furlough employees. While these are challenging times, small businesses have an opportunity to deliberately pivot their business to meet the needs of a changing world.
What You Will Learn:
• How to finalize your new opportunity including the business model and revenue streams
• How to explore changes to your financial, operational, marketing, and staffing
• Best practices in brainstorming goals, priorities, and actions to be taken
Once participants have identified and assessed the feasibility of their new opportunity, it is imperative that a strategy is developed to reposition the business by building a new and improved foundation including confirming the new financial, operational, marketing, and staffing models. This also includes new processes and revenue streams for the business. This session will include best practices for recalibrating their business strategy by aligning goals, priorities, and actions.
The facilitator for this series will be Malaika Moran, Owner and Lead Strategist of SocialStep Marketing and Consulting.
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/2972537799335554317 . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Construction Law: S1- Understanding and Negotiating Contract Terms
2021-09-14 17:30 - 19:30
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.
The facilitator for this session will be Denise C. Puente – Partner at Simon, Peragine, Smith, & Redfearn, L.L.P.
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/1787849204798320653. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Construction Law: S2 - Increasing Capacity through Partnering Agreements
2021-09-15 17:30 - 19:30
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-protégé relationships. Attendees will walk away with new perspectives on risk mitigation, including the key elements of a partnering contract that must be considered.
The facilitator for this session will be Daya Naef, Attorney and Legal Consultant, Daya Naef, LLC
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/5349822676095012365. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Hurricane Ida Assistance for Small Businesses with the SBA
2021-09-15 18:00 - 19:00
Louisiana residents affected by Hurricane Ida are now able to register for disaster assistance with FEMA and to obtain needed support from the SBA. Disaster assistance is available to renters, homeowners, private non-profits, and small businesses in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis and Vernon parishes affected by the hurricane effective Aug. 26th.
Disaster assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. In addition, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to homeowners, renters and businesses.
Please join us on Wednesday, September 15th to learn more! During this session, those impacted and seeking assistance will learn how to obtain FEMA and SBA assistance, including:
• FEMA Registration Requirements and the Process to Receive Assistance
• SBA Loan Eligibility and Application Process
• Denials and Requests for Reconsideration
Guest speakers include:
• Susheel Kumar, Public Information Officer, Office of Disaster Assistance, Field Operations Center – West, U.S. Small Business Administration
• Jo Ann Lawrence, Deputy District Director, Louisiana District Office, U.S. Small Business Administration
There is no cost to attend this session, however, registration is required. Register today to attend!
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/1964062436290333707 .

Construction Law: S3 - What Contractors Need to Know about Employment Law
2021-09-16 17:30 - 19:00
It is vitally important that entrepreneurs in construction become aware of and comply with 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.
The facilitator for this session will be E. Fredrick Preis, Jr. – Partner at Breazeale, Sachse & Wilson, L.L.P., New Orleans
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/1697842083437064205 After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

COVID-19 Perspectives: Session 3 - Reorganize, Retool, Recharge
2021-09-21 13:00 - 15:30
Please register for “COVID-19 Perspectives: Session 3 – Reorganize, Retool, Recharge” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3872764044088802573 After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted small businesses. Many businesses have had to close or limit operations, lost revenue, and terminate or furlough employees. While these are challenging times, small businesses have an opportunity to deliberately pivot their business to meet the needs of a changing world.
What You Will Learn:
• How to evaluate the needs, opportunities, and gaps within the new business model
• How to map the new business support model, training, and counseling needs
• How to determine the tools and operational supports needed to ensure success
Pivoting ones business to meet the changing needs of the market can require an operational overhaul. During this session, participants will learn: 1) how to reorganize one’s business support model, including employees, suppliers, consultants, mentors, accountability partners, and others, with risk management in mind, and 2) how to assess and pivot the business’ structure, operations, staff, and 3) the tools being used to create efficiency, increase productivity and meet the needs of its customers. The session will include how entrepreneurs can recharge their mindsets and become energized about their pivot towards resilience.
The facilitator for this series will be Malaika Moran, Owner and Lead Strategist of SocialStep Marketing and Consulting.
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/3872764044088802573 . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
