Urban League of Louisiana

Grow with Google - S1: Get Your Local Business on Google Search and Maps
2023-07-20 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Session 1: Get Your Local Business on Google Search and Maps

Facilitator: Orhan McMillan | Date: Thursday, July 20, 2023 | Time: 12:00pm-1:30pm

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

There is no cost to attend, however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your spot.
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/regi…/4161503508871900256

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

QuickBooks Online – Session 2: Everyday Transactions and Financial Reports
2023-07-18 17:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
As a business owner, having your financials in order is the most important step to running your business effectively and profitability. Now is a great time to get your accounting system and processes set up the right way! Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Women’s Business Resource Center 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. This 3-part series is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
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.
Course Facilitator: Lori Jackson, MSC Coaching
There is no cost to attend, however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your spot! https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1913824665033285976

QuickBooks Online – Session 1: Get Started and Set Up the Right Way
2023-07-11 17:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
As a business owner, having your financials in order is the most important step to running your business effectively and profitability. Now is a great time to get your accounting system and processes set up the right way! Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Women’s Business Resource Center 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. This 3-part series is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
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.
Course Facilitator: Lori Jackson, MSC Coaching
There is no cost to attend, however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your spot! https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/59955701626036566

Export Dat! Grow Your Small Business by Competing in the Global Marketplace
2023-06-27 09:00 - 12:00 | Port of New Orleans Place | Auditorium, 1350 Port of New Orleans Place, New Orleans, LA, 70130, United States
Tuesday, June 27, 2023 | 9:00am – 12:00pm | 1350 Port of New Orleans Place, Auditorium, New Orleans, LA 70130
Join the Urban League of Louisiana on Tuesday, June 27th for “Export Dat!: Grow Your Small Business by Competing in the Global Marketplace”. The event will take place on Tuesday, June 27th, 9:00am-12:00pm, at the Port Nola Administration Building, 1350 Port of New Orleans Place, New Orleans, LA 70130.
As the number of small businesses in the US continues to rise, entrepreneurs must identify more competitive ways to scale their businesses for growth. With 96% of the world’s consumers living outside of the United States and representing two-thirds of the world’s purchasing power, going global as an exporter can offer significant growth opportunities for small business owners.
While the opportunities are evident, there are many reasons why US-based entrepreneurs do not explore doing business outside of our nation’s borders. Those reasons include fear of the unknown in other markets, perceived lack of entrepreneurial support, or the inability to understand how one’s business could operate and compete in other countries.
During this symposium-style learning opportunity, entrepreneurs will gain valuable insights on why and how doing business internationally is a strategy for growth. Attendees will also learn the fundamentals of international business, the opportunities and untapped resources that exist, and the key elements of an international business plan. The agenda will include:

Opening Remarks and Overview of the Day Agenda – Urban League of Louisiana and Other Special Guests
Welcome and Introduction from the Port Nola and Port 101 – Port Nola Representative
Why Go Global and Resources for Small Businesses Going Global – US Commercial Service New Orleans, International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce
How To Take Your Company Global and Overcoming the Challenges in International Commerce – SBA Office of International Trade
The International Business Plan – Technical Assistance Provider for International Business

There is no cost for the event, however, registration is required. Register here today to reserve your seat!

2023 Women in Construction Convening: Pathways to Profits
2023-04-27 08:30 - 16:00 | New Orleans Jaz Market, 1436 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans, LA, 70113, United States
Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Women’s Business Resource Center for the 2023 Women In Construction Convening: Pathways to Profits: Leveraging Innovation for Recovery, Growth, and Sustainability. The event takes place on Thursday, April 27, 2023, 8:30am-4:00pm, at the New Orleans Jazz Market, 1436 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans, LA.
We are excited to offer this dynamic event in support of women in construction across Louisiana and invite your to join us!
During the past three years, construction firms across Louisiana have been significantly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, Hurricanes Ida and Laura, localized flooding and tornados, and the economic downturn. These events caused delays in projects, labor shortages, supply chain delays, increased material costs, and tightened insurance coverage.
Today, many of these issues are still being felt across the region. For construction owners, the need for deliberate strategies for recovery, growth, and sustainability are imperative.
During the 2023 Women in Construction Convening, participants will learn about innovative pathways to profitability that can change the trajectory of their business with a focus on risk management, technology enhancements, opportunities in sustainable buildings and green infrastructure, and much more!
This day will be packed with insights and best practices from industry experts, guest speakers, and women leaders who are excelling in the industry!
There is no cost to attend. Register today to reserve your seat!

2023 Listen and Learn Tour: Monroe
2023-04-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Louisiana Delta Community College, 7500 Millhaven Road, Monroe, LA, 71203, United States
RSVP Here

2023 Listen and Learn Tour: Shreveport
2023-03-29 18:00 - 20:00 | Southern University Shreveport Louisiana, Jesse N. Stone, Jr. Lecture Hall 3050 Martin Luther King Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana, 71107, United States

2023 Listen and Learn Tour: Alexandria
2023-03-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC), 516 Murray Street, Alexandria, LA, 71301, United States

NOEW: A Recipe for Success - Grow Your Food Service Business!
2023-03-27 13:00 - 15:00 | LA
A Recipe for Success: Leveraging Best-in-Class Accelerator Programs to Grow Your Food Service Business
Monday, March 27, 1:00pm-3:00pm
Location: Southern Food & Beverage Museum, 1405 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70113
Accelerator programs can be a game-changer for start-ups and growth stage businesses in the food service industry. During the New Orleans Entrepreneur Week’s NOEW In Your Neighborhood series, the Urban League of Louisiana’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation and its partners will share how food service accelerators are helping diverse entrepreneurs to grow and scale their operations through guidance on food costing, operational efficiency, branding and marketing, site selection, expanding to consumer packaged goods, and more!
The event will take place on Monday, March 27th, 1:00pm-3:00pm, at the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, 1405 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70113; and will highlight the PepsiCo Foundation’s Black Restaurant Accelerator Program, and feature Louisiana-based, Black-owned food service entrepreneurs who have leveraged the programs benefits to recover, grow, and sustain their operations.
This session will also feature insights from PROOF, an accelerator, incubator, and food service consulting firm based in Chattanooga, TN. Founded and led by food and beverage industry veterans, the mission of Proof is to support owners and operators in the industry through programs, resources, and community. PROOF is the Urban League of Louisiana’s partner in administering the PepsiCo Black Restaurant Accelerator Program in Louisiana.
Space is limited. Register today to reserve your seat!
NOEW 2023 Registration Requirement
In addition to signing up for this event, you must ALSO register directly for NOEW 2023 at www.noew.org. By registering for a free NOEW 2023 Access Pass – or any of the other NOEW 2023 Passes – you will be considered officially registered for this NOEW in Your Neighborhood event, and you will receive all other NOEW benefits and activities that are available through your Pass for the entire week. Register here: www.noew.org

2023 Listen and Learn Tour: Lake Charles
2023-03-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, 2009 North Simmons Street, Lake Charles, 70601

2023 Listen and Learn Tour: Lafayette
2023-03-23 18:00 - 20:00 | University of Louisiana-Lafayette, Oliver Hall Auditorium, 301 E Lewis St., Lafayette, LA, 70503, United States

2023 Listen and Learn Tour: Baton Rouge
2023-03-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Charles R. Kelly Community Center, 3535 Riley Street, Baton Rouge, LA, 70805, United States

2023 Listen and Learn Tour: New Orleans
2023-03-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Urban League of Louisiana HQ, 4640 S. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans, LA, 70119, United States

Becoming Bankable - Session 3: Action Planning for the Funding Package
2023-03-09 12:30 - 14:30 | LA
Join the Urban League of Louisiana for its signature “Becoming Bankable Series: Preparing to Access Capital”, March 7-9, 12:30pm-2:30pm! This series is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
For small businesses, there are certain indicators that are very telling as to whether or not obtaining a traditional business loan will be possible. These include the personal credit score of the owner, time in business, profitability, debt service coverage, and collateral. In considering these factors and others, it is imperative that entrepreneurs understand how to best position themselves to access capital and what they can be doing today to advance their business closer to becoming bankable.
Session 3: Action Planning for Becoming Bankable and the Funding Package | Thursday, March 9 | 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. This session also provides participants with final guidance on developing a funding package.
This session will 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.
Facilitator: Lori Jackson, Financial Literacy Coach, MSC Coaching
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/3899256788834754140. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Becoming Bankable - Session 2: Financial State and Needs for Growth
2023-03-08 12:30 - 14:30 | LA
oin the Urban League of Louisiana for its signature “Becoming Bankable Series: Preparing to Access Capital”, March 7-9, 12:30pm-2:30pm! This series is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
For small businesses, there are certain indicators that are very telling as to whether or not obtaining a traditional business loan will be possible. These include the personal credit score of the owner, time in business, profitability, debt service coverage, and collateral. In considering these factors and others, it is imperative that entrepreneurs understand how to best position themselves to access capital and what they can be doing today to advance their business closer to becoming bankable.
Session 2: Examining Your Business’ Financial State and Needs for Growth |Wednesday, March 8 | 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 business plan, and how to make the case for the estimated repayment plan.
Facilitator: Lori Jackson, Financial Literacy Coach, MSC Coaching
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/174120190021902426. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Becoming Bankable - Session 1: Understanding Your Financial Position
2023-03-07 12:30 - 14:30 | LA
Join the Urban League of Louisiana for its signature “Becoming Bankable Series: Preparing to Access Capital”, March 7-9, 12:30pm-2:30pm! This series is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
For small businesses, there are certain indicators that are very telling as to whether or not obtaining a traditional business loan will be possible. These include the personal credit score of the owner, time in business, profitability, debt service coverage, and collateral. In considering these factors and others, it is imperative that entrepreneurs understand how to best position themselves to access capital and what they can be doing today to advance their business closer to becoming bankable.
Session 1: Understanding and Improving Your Personal Financial Position | Tuesday, March 7 | 12:30p-2:30p
During this session, participants will learn what it means to become bankable and how the personal finances of the entrepreneur are connected to the business. This session also 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 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.
Facilitator: Lori Jackson, Financial Literacy Coach, MSC Coaching
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/5768369381448397655. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

CRC Training Day: Back Office Administration for Construction Contractors
2023-03-02 09:00 - 13:00 | Urban League of Louisiana HQ, 4640 S. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans, LA, 70119, United States
One of the most significant challenges for small construction contractors who grow is the ability to effectively manage the back-office administration of their firm. Now, more than ever, construction companies must focus on modernizing their back-office processes to operate as efficiently as possible. If you are using administrative processes that are outdated and rely on a ruler, Excel spreadsheets, and paper-based procedures, you probably adding time, cost, and frustration to all of your projects. If this is the case, it’s time for an administrative overhaul!
Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Contractor’s Resource Center on Thursday, March 2, 9:00am-1:00pm, for “CRC Training Day: Back-Office Administration for Construction Contractors”. This workshop will take place at the Urban League of Louisiana, 4640 S. Carrollton Avenue, Suite 110, New Orleans, LA 70119.
During this session, construction contractors will be introduced to best practices in back-office administration with a focus on:

Utilizing Planswift Estimating software to calculate quantities and values needed to create detailed line-item estimates
Developing a winning bid and creating a scope sheet that itemizes inclusions/exclusions
Utilizing UDA ConstructionSuite Software to develop a schedule and schedule of values (sov), estimate project costs, and manage your statement of cash flows
Understanding business financials such as the balance sheet, profit and loss, cash flow, and work-in-progress statements to identify potential red flags, accurately forecast budgets, and maximize long-term profitability
Learn QuickBooks and Costing methods to help you manage Cost of Goods Sold and invoicing processes such as the G702/03 Pay Apps

Seating is limited to 15 participants. There is no cost to register, however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your seat!

QuickBooks Online – Session 3: Ongoing Accounting Tasks and Maintenance
2023-03-01 17:30 - 19:30 | LA
As a business owner, having your financials in order is the most important step to running your business effectively and profitability. Now is a great time to get your accounting system and processes set up the right way! Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Women’s Business Resource Center 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. This 3-part series is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
QuickBooks Online – Session 3: Ongoing Accounting Concepts and Maintenance Tasks You Must Know
Wednesday, March 1, 2023 | 5:30pm-7:30pm
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.
Course Facilitator: Lori Jackson, MSC Coaching
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/6392090441894847584. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

QuickBooks Online – Session 2: Everyday Transactions and Financial Reports
2023-02-28 17:30 - 19:30 | LA
As a business owner, having your financials in order is the most important step to running your business effectively and profitability. Now is a great time to get your accounting system and processes set up the right way! Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Women’s Business Resource Center 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. This 3-part series is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
QuickBooks Online – Session 2: Everyday Transactions and Financial Reports
Tuesday, February 28, 2023 | 5:30pm-7:30pm
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.
Course Facilitator: Lori Jackson, MSC Coaching
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/6413821189706183255. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

QuickBooks Online – Session 1:Get Started and Set Up the Right Way
2023-02-27 17:30 - 19:30 | LA
As a business owner, having your financials in order is the most important step to running your business effectively and profitability. Now is a great time to get your accounting system and processes set up the right way! Join the Urban League of Louisiana’s Women’s Business Resource Center 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. This 3-part series is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
QuickBooks Online – Session 1: Foundations – Get Started and Setup the Right Way
Monday, February 27, 2023 | 5:30pm-7:30pm
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.
Course Facilitator: Lori Jackson, MSC Coaching
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/4289751641819571798. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Voice of the Community Roundtable: St. John + St. James Parishes
2023-02-23 18:00 - 20:00 | LA
Join the Urban League of Louisiana as we host a “Voice of the Community” (VOC) Roundtables in St. John the Baptist Parish and St. James Parish!
This community-based event will be used to gain valuable insights on the challenges impacting small businesses across the state of Louisiana. The goal of this convening is to hear directly from entrepreneurs about challenges, gaps, opportunities, and resource needs and to leverage this information to create, mobilize, and enhance ULLA’s small business support services across the state.
These meetings are hosted as a part of the Urban League of Louisiana’s SBA Community Navigator Pilot Program in collaboration with the National Urban League. There is no cost to attend, however, registration is required. Masks are highly encouraged. Refreshments will be provided at each session.
Host: Dr. Carla Antoine, Director, Small Business Support Services, Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Urban League of Louisiana

Black Restaurant Accelerator Program - S3: Consumer Packaged Goods
2023-02-13 12:30 - 14:30 | LA
Please register for “Black Restaurant Accelerator Program Series – S3: Grow Your Consumer Packaged Goods Business” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/813559867457403232 . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Join the Urban League of Louisiana for a special 3-part entrepreneurial education series for food service operators looking to grow and scale! The series is designed to provide restauranteurs, caterers, and food truck operators with best practices and actionable steps related to growth tactics, food costing, and consumer packaged goods.
This special spring series is hosted in collaboration with the National Urban League and sponsored by the PepsiCo Foundation as a part of the Black Restaurant Accelerator Program (BRAP). BRAP is a part of a $10M investment by the PepsiCo Foundation to provide current and aspiring Black restaurateurs with access to capital, training, mentorship and other support services through the National Urban League’s 12 entrepreneurship centers.
Each session will be facilitated by PROOF, an accelerator, incubator, and bar based in Chattanooga, TN. Founded and led by food and beverage industry veterans, the mission of Proof is to support owners and operators in the industry through programs, resources, and community.
Register today to reserve your seat for each session!
Session 3: Launch and Scale Your Consumer Packaged Goods Business
Have an idea for a packaged product? Already have an early-stage product on the shelves? From product formation to wider market exposure for proven brands, the Consumer Package Goods workshop is a much-needed resource to assist businesses with an eye on expansion and distribution growth. From scaling to launching a CPG, this workshop will cover key strategies like distribution, manufacturing, co-packing, warehousing, and marketing.
Food and beverage consumer product brands will find value in this workshop.
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/813559867457403232 . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Voice of the Community Roundtable: St. Charles Parish
2023-02-09 18:00 - 20:00 | LA
Join the Urban League of Louisiana as we host a “Voice of the Community” (VOC) Roundtables in St. Charles Parish!
This community-based event will be used to gain valuable insights on the challenges impacting small businesses across the state of Louisiana. The goal of this convening is to hear directly from entrepreneurs about challenges, gaps, opportunities, and resource needs and to leverage this information to create, mobilize, and enhance ULLA’s small business support services across the state.
These meetings are hosted as a part of the Urban League of Louisiana’s SBA Community Navigator Pilot Program in collaboration with the National Urban League. There is no cost to attend, however, registration is required. Masks are highly encouraged. Refreshments will be provided at each session.
Host: Dr. Carla Antoine, Director, Small Business Support Services, Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Urban League of Louisiana

Black Restaurant Accelerator Program - S2: Best Practices in Food Costing
2023-02-06 14:30 - 16:30 | LA
Please register for “Black Restaurant Accelerator Program Series – S2: Best Practices in Food Costing” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/499102840448311134. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Join the Urban League of Louisiana for a special 3-part entrepreneurial education series for food service operators looking to grow and scale! The series is designed to provide restauranteurs, caterers, and food truck operators with best practices and actionable steps related to growth tactics, food costing, and consumer packaged goods.
This special spring series is hosted in collaboration with the National Urban League and sponsored by the PepsiCo Foundation as a part of the Black Restaurant Accelerator Program (BRAP). BRAP is a part of a $10M investment by the PepsiCo Foundation to provide current and aspiring Black restaurateurs with access to capital, training, mentorship and other support services through the National Urban League’s 12 entrepreneurship centers.
Each session will be facilitated by PROOF, an accelerator, incubator, and bar based in Chattanooga, TN. Founded and led by food and beverage industry veterans, the mission of Proof is to support owners and operators in the industry through programs, resources, and community.
Register today to reserve your seat for each session!
Session 2: Best Practices in Food Costing
There’s more to serving your customers than providing them with great products. This 2-hour comprehensive workshop will provide participants with the tools, processes, and practical steps to audit and uncover hidden food costs. The Proof Team will present and explore various concepts around operational efficiencies and standard operating procedures that promote a sustainable and profitable foodservice business.
This workshop is for owners and operators of restaurants, bars, caterers, cafes, food truck, breweries, and other food service businesses who are eager to grow. Food and beverage consumer product brands will also find value in this workshop.
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/499102840448311134. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Black Restaurant Accelerator Program - S1: Growth Tactics in Food Service
2023-01-30 12:30 - 14:30 | LA
Please register for “Black Restaurant Accelerator Program Series – S1: Growth Tactics for Food Service Operators” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7011202348509721175 . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar
Join the Urban League of Louisiana for a special 3-part entrepreneurial education series for food service operators looking to grow and scale! The series is designed to provide restauranteurs, caterers, and food truck operators with best practices and actionable steps related to growth tactics, food costing, and consumer packaged goods.
This special spring series is hosted in collaboration with the National Urban League and sponsored by the PepsiCo Foundation as a part of the Black Restaurant Accelerator Program (BRAP). BRAP is a part of a $10M investment by the PepsiCo Foundation to provide current and aspiring Black restaurateurs with access to capital, training, mentorship and other support services through the National Urban League’s 12 entrepreneurship centers.
Each session will be facilitated by PROOF, an accelerator, incubator, and bar based in Chattanooga, TN. Founded and led by food and beverage industry veterans, the mission of Proof is to support owners and operators in the industry through programs, resources, and community.
Register today to reserve your seat for each session!
Session 1: Growth Tactics for Food Service Operators
Lingering COVID-related challenges like supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and inflated prices continue to confront the food and beverage industry daily.
During this 2-hour workshop for new and seasoned business owners alike, Proof’s team of food and beverage experts will equip you with tools and resources to navigate this the ever-evolving industry, from emerging technologies to franchising to raising capital. You can walk away from this workshop with actionable guidance that will yield tangible, growth-oriented returns.
This workshop is for owners and operators of restaurants, bars, caterers, cafes, food truck, breweries, and other food service businesses who are eager to grow. Food and beverage consumer product brands will also find value in this workshop.
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/7011202348509721175. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Louisiana Black Leadership Forum
2023-01-27 15:00 - 21:00 | AT&T Forum, 601 New Jersey Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20001, United States
Each year political, business and civic leaders from across Louisiana descend on Washington, D.C. to celebrate with the Mystick Krewe of Louisiana during D.C. Mardi Gras. This weekend of networking and culture presents a unique opportunity for black leaders across our state to engage and strengthen coalitions that uplift our community and strengthen our state. The inaugural Louisiana Black Leadership Forum will bring together black and minority leaders from Louisiana to network, share impactful initiatives, opportunities and threats to advancing economic, civic and political power in our state. We will profile examples of effective engagement and identify opportunities to deepen our collaboration and partnerships.
Presenting sponsors include AT&T Louisiana and Amazon.
The program includes:
3:00pm
Doors Open, Registration & Reception Begins
3:30pm
Welcome Remarks & Special Recognitions
State Rep. Vincent Pierre, Chairman of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus
Tyronne Walker, Vice President, Urban League of Louisiana
Terri Broussard Williams, Senior Manager, Public Policy
David Aubrey, Vice President, AT&T Louisiana
Panel Discussion 1
Building Black Wealth to Grow Louisiana Economy
Moderator: Kelisha Garrett, Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Panelists:
Hon. Krystal Brumfield, Associate Administrator, U.S. General Services Administration
Hon. Ted James, Region IV Administrator, Small Business Administration
Todd McDonald, CEO, Liberty Bank & Trust Company
Nicole Elam, CEO, National Bankers Association
Brittany Dunn, Shreveport Black Chamber of Commerce
Amazon Presenting Sponsor Spotlight – Career Choice and Upskilling Programs
Emily Bouck West, Amazon Career Choice and Upskilling Programs
Special Remarks
Phyllis Dickerson, CEO, African American Mayors Association
Panel Discussion 2
Strengthening Black Political and Civic Power in Louisiana
Moderator: Judy Reese Morse, President and CEO, Urban League of Louisiana
Panelists:
Hon. Cedric Richmond, Former Senior Advisor to the President of the United States
Hon. Katrina Jackson, State Representative, Louisiana State Legislature
Hon. Sharon Weston-Broome, Mayor-President, Baton Rouge
Hyma Moore, Chief of Staff, Democratic National Committee
6:00pm
Closing Remarks
State Rep. Candace Newell, Vice Chair, Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus
David St. Etienne, President & CEO, Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Reception Honoring Congressman Troy Carter
Reception Ends

Opportunities Outlook 2023 for DBE Contractors
2023-01-26 13:00 - 16:00 | Regional Transportation Management Center, 10 Veterans Boulevard, New Orleans, LA, 70124
Working on your 2023 business development plan? Join us for Opportunities Outlook 2023 to learn about upcoming procurement opportunities!
The Urban League of Louisiana’s Contractor’s Resource Center will host “Opportunities Outlook 2023” for DBE Contractors on Thursday, January 26, 2023, 1:00pm-4:00pm, at the Regional Transportation Management Center, 10 Veterans Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124.
This annual event is held to support contractors in preparing for the upcoming year by focusing attention on new opportunities for strategic growth and competitiveness. The event will feature updates on current opportunities and upcoming bids from procurement officers and prime contractors. Other programs and resources that support capacity-building and profitability for the contracting community will also be featured.
Seating is limited. There is no cost to attend, however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your spot! Also, please bring a stack of your capabilities statement to share!

Women & Wealth: The Road to Financial Independence and Resilience
2023-01-18 13:00 - 15:00 | LA
Natural disasters, health crisis, and other unforeseen events can have immediate and long-term impacts on your personal finances. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that women business owners not lose sight of the need to effectively plan for the financial future that they desire. Women entrepreneurs must become strategic and take deliberate action to ensure success.
During this special session, women entrepreneurs will learn best practices for managing their finances and gain insights on how to create a financial plan that mitigates future risks. Topics discussed will include: tips on how to build and manage wealth, best practices in budgeting, spending and saving, how to prepare for asset ownership, debt reduction strategies, how to become bankable, and much more!
Register here.

Get DBE Certified!: Understanding the LA Unified Certification Program
2023-01-11 10:00 - 11:30 | LA
Please register for “Louisiana Unified Certification Program: Get DBE Certified!” by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5106720665856397913 . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Join the Urban League of Louisiana on Wednesday, January 11, 10:00am-11:30am, to learn more about how to get LAUCP DBE certified!
During this session, participants will learn the benefits and the key components of the LAUCP DBE Certification including eligibility requirements and the application process. This session will include:

Benefits of the LAUCP DBE certification
Who should apply including eligibility requirements
A step-by-step review of the application process
Required documents including those that verify ownership and management control
Tips for completing a successful application

All aspiring DBEs are welcomed to attend. There is no cost to attend; however, registration is required. Register today to reserve your seat!
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/5106720665856397913. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Financial Empowerment Series for Entrepreneurs – 5 Session Series
2023-01-10 - 2023-02-09 | Sankofa Community Center, 5200 Dauphine Street, New Orleans, LA, 70117
oin the Urban League of Louisiana for the “Financial Empowerment Series for Entrepreneurs”, Tuesdays, January 10 – February 9th, 6:00pm-8:30pm.
New and early stage entrepreneurs have an opportunity to leverage small business ownership as a pathway to economic independence and resilience. To get started on the right path to financial empowerment, it is critical that business owners learn how to launch and grow a business that has financial stability and the potential for growth. During this series, entrepreneurs will be guided through a roadmap to financially position your business for success.
Each session will take place at the Sankofa Community Center, 5200 Dauphine Street, New Orleans, LA 70117. There is no cost to attend, however, seating is limited and registration is required. Register today to reserve your spot!
This series is sponsored by the Lower 9th Ward Economic Development District and Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development Program. To participate, attendees must be or become certified through the LED Small and Emerging Business Development Program. Visit www.opportunitylouisiana.gov/sebd to get certified today!
Session 1: Set Up Your Business for Financial Success
New business owners must create a business model and financial plan that ensures success. During this session, entrepreneurs will learn how to properly turn a big idea, hobby, or passion into a successful business model. Participants will learn key insights on how to financially set up your business the right way and best practices for creating a business and financial model that will not become a failure statistic.
Session 2 – Determine Your Start-up Costs and Pricing
As a new or aspiring entrepreneur, it is imperative that you discover your bottom line – what is the cost of starting your new business venture and how do you set up pricing to ensure profitability? During this session, participants, will learn how to assess startup costs and ongoing expenses, determine fixed and variable costs, as well as, how to create financial projections to plan for future needs.
Session 3: Use Your Financial Reports to Make Better Business Decisions
A critical component of managing the financial success of your business is understanding your financial reports – your income statement, balance sheet, and statement of cash flows. You’ve started the business. Now it’s time to evaluate your financial health, determine your break-even point, and analyze your numbers so that you can make better business decisions and plan for the future.
Session 4: Develop Strategies for Financial Growth
As an entrepreneur, once you have learned to assess your finances to make better business decisions, now it’s time to plan for growth. During this session, participants will learn: 1.) how to maximize profits and minimize expenses, 2.) how to use business profits to scale, and 3.) how to determine which income streams should be scaled.
Session 5: Preparing to Access Growth Capital
You’ve started your growth journey! Now it’s time to decide how you will leverage your success to get your financial position to the next level. This includes deciding on a savings plan, insurance, and paying yourself. During this session, participants will also learn how to determine when it’s time to go after a loan, when to consider an equity investor, and how to best position your business to access these resources.
