Watertown Development Company

SCORE: Understanding SEO: Smart Strategies for Today’s (and Tomorrow’s) Web
2025-12-02 12:00 - 13:00 UTC
Tuesday, December 2, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
SCORE: Understanding SEO: Smart Strategies for Today’s (and Tomorrow’s) Web
Description: In today’s ever-changing digital world, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is no longer optional. It’s essential. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to sharpen your strategy, this workshop will demystify SEO and show you exactly what works right now — and what’s on the horizon. Led by digital marketing expert Ben Theis of Skol Marketing, this session breaks down what Google and other search engines are really looking for, and how to position your business to show up, stand out, and succeed online. You’ll leave with actionable strategies, free tools, and a clear understanding of how to grow your online visibility and drive results. What You’ll Learn:

What SEO really is (and isn’t) — no jargon, no fluff
How Google analyzes your website and ranks it
What small businesses can do to rank higher, faster
How to use Google Search Console, Analytics, and Google Business Profile (formerly Google Local)
Simple, cost-effective steps to boost your visibility
Where SEO is heading — and how to stay ahead of the curve

Whether your brand new to SEO or ready to take your online growth to the next level, this session will give you the clarity, confidence, and tools to compete — and win — in search.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org 952-938-4570
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77411

SCORE: Buying a Business
2025-12-03 09:00 - 11:00
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. CST
SCORE: Buying a Business
Description: Are you interested in learning how to evaluate the acquisition of a company? Join our upcoming workshop where we will cover everything you need to know to make informed decisions when acquiring a company. LEARN:

Identifying viable businesses
Valuing the business to avoid overpaying
Working with a business broker
Options for financing
Structuring the purchase
Documenting the purchase agreement

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org 952-938-4570
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77412

SCORE: Finding Grants and Sponsorships – Locate Opportunities, Apply Confidently, Stand Out to Funders
2025-12-03 12:00 - 13:00
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
SCORE: Finding Grants and Sponsorships – Locate Opportunities, Apply Confidently, Stand Out to Funders
Description: Finding funding for your business can be challenging—but with the right strategy and tools, it’s absolutely possible. From identifying grants and sponsorships to leveraging free and affordable resources, knowing where to start can help you secure the support your business needs to grow. In this webinar, our expert will walk you through today’s most reliable funding opportunities and business resources. You’ll learn the key steps to becoming “grant-ready,” how to strengthen your business to meet eligibility requirements, and proven strategies to help your applications stand out from the competition. What You’ll Learn:

How to find legitimate small business grants, sponsorships, using funding databases
How to prepare for common types of business funding and determine your eligibility
What it means to be “grant-ready” and how to determine eligibility
Key application documents funders expect and how to prepare them
Free and low-cost business resources that support growth, visibility, and funding readiness

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77406

SCORE: Hiring Better, Faster
2025-12-03 12:00 - 13:00
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
SCORE: Hiring Better, Faster
Description: Hiring can be one of the most expensive mistakes for a business. In this workshop, you’ll learn some best practices and marketing tips to hire better, faster in this competitive market.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org 952-938-4570
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77413

APEX Accelerator: Intro to Federal Government Contracting
2025-12-04 09:00 - 10:00
Thursday, December 4, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. CST
APEX Accelerator: Intro to Federal Government Contracting
Description: Unlock Opportunities in Government Contracting – In 2023, the Federal Government spent approximately $745 billion on government contracts. Yes, that’s billion with a “B.” The U.S. Government is the largest buyer of goods and services in the world, with an expansive range of needs—from office supplies and construction services to technology solutions and specialized equipment. Is your business ready to tap into this lucrative market? Join us for an insightful and practical webinar hosted by the Nebraska APEX Accelerator and presented by Lisa Tedesco from the Omaha Small Business Administration (SBA). This recurring bi-monthly event offers an introduction to the world of government contracting—a space where small businesses can thrive and scale. During this session, you’ll gain valuable insights into:

Navigating government requirements and certifications
Essential websites and resources for contracting opportunities
Key steps to determine if government contracting aligns with your business goals

Whether you’re just starting to explore government sales or looking to expand your current market, this webinar provides the foundational knowledge to help you make informed decisions. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to position your business for success in the federal marketplace.
Event information: The event details will be sent to you in a registration confirmation email after registering. The webinar link for the webinar will be provided to you in your registration confirmation email. Additionally, you can click “Add to Calendar” at the top of the registration page after registering to add the event info (date, time, location, and virtual option link) directly to your eCalendar.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, vdoga@unomaha.edu 402-554-6250
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77371

GROW Nebraska: GROW Your Business with AI-Powered Tools by Google
2025-12-04 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, December 4, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
GROW Nebraska: GROW Your Business with AI-Powered Tools by Google
Description: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful technology that can help simplify business tasks and create new opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs – but knowing how to use it may seem out of reach. Developed with input from experts at Google, this workshop will explain the basics of AI and how AI-powered tools by Google can help small businesses be more efficient, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. Can’t attend? Register anyway and we’ll send you the recording!
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Tonja or Cammie, member@grownebraska.org 308-338-3520
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77105

SCORE: Email Strategy for Revenue Growth – Build Your List, Create Better Emails, Convert Customers
2025-12-04 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, December 4, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
SCORE: Email Strategy for Revenue Growth – Build Your List, Create Better Emails, Convert Customers
Description: Many small business owners recognize the importance of email marketing, but without a well-defined plan, it can become overwhelming. What should be sent? How do you get people to sign up? And how do you make sure it’s actually driving business? In this webinar, you’ll learn how to build proven strategies and tactics to harness the power of the inbox as a powerful growth engine for your business. From improving your website so visitors subscribe, to designing emails people actually want to read, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what to do next. You’ll learn how to:

Master the foundations of online marketing and build a winning strategy
Optimize your website to complement your email campaigns
Leverage listings & reviews to enhance credibility and attract more customers
Design compelling emails that captivate your audience and drive action
Integrate social media & email to expand your reach and boost engagement
Measure success & refine your approach for consistent growth

Up Next: Take your learning further with the two-part live series, Email Marketing Strategies: Get More Email Subscribers and Boost Email Engagement. Email remains one of the most powerful revenue-driving tools available to small business owners, but only when you know how to use it strategically. This two-part series will teach you how to grow a high-quality subscriber list and turn those subscribers into paying customers. Register for this free session to receive an exclusive discount code for the series.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77407

SCORE: Three (3) Presentations You Need to Build Your Brand
2025-12-04 12:00 - 13:30
Thursday, December 4, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CST
SCORE: Three (3) Presentations You Need to Build Your Brand
Description: 59 percent of B2B decision-makers believe a company’s thought leadership content better demonstrates its capabilities than its marketing material. Why, then, would you focus all of your time on social media marketing? Public speaking is the most cost effective way to cultivate your brand and build brand awareness, so you can connect with potential clients, partners and sponsors. In this interactive session, international speaker Jenn will identify 3 key presentations that grow your thought leadership and build your brand. We will explore the unique purpose, content, and delivery you need for each one. You will walk away knowing:

How to establish your credibility and expertise in a crowded market
Key elements of persuasive storytelling
Powerful calls to action that have your audience talking about you

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org 952-938-4570
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77414

GROW Nebraska Women's Business Center: The M.A.K.S. Method: Simple Tracking, Strategic Success
2025-12-04 18:00 - 20:30
Thursday, December 4, 2025 (In-Person Only)
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. CST
GROW Nebraska Women’s Business Center: The M.A.K.S. Method: Simple Tracking, Strategic Success
Description: Join GNWBC and Irene & Vernon Tryon of YBusiness Solutions to learn how their M.A.K.S. Tax app can help you monitor your financial habits! This workshop will cover a range of recordkeeping strategies to ensure IRS Compliance and Tax Readiness for entrepreneurs. Can you easily prove your deductions if the IRS asks? Do you know which expenses are “business-qualified” v.s. personal? Then M.A.K.S. may be right for you!
*Simplify your expense tracking system
*Develop grant-ready organization skills
*Build confidence in your recordkeeping
Cost: Free
Location: The Commonwealth 5425 N 103rd St., Omaha, NE 68134
Questions contact: Nekola Distefano, contact@gnwbc.org 402-300-8170
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77367

Entrepreneur's Education Collaborative: Pricing Strategies
2025-12-09 11:30 - 12:30
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (Hybrid – both In-Person & Online THIS LINK IS ONLINE ATTENDANCE ONLY)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CST
Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative: Pricing Strategies
Description: As a small business owner, you know pricing is everything. Get it wrong, and you risk profits, cash flow, and even your brand. Join the Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative (EEC) for an engaging hybrid panel session designed to take the guesswork out of your pricing and discover the power of effective pricing to drive profitability and growth. ➡️ Learn from Real-World Expertise – Your time is valuable, so we’ve assembled a panel that brings a 360-degree view of successful pricing:
◾ Victoria Mbachu: A successful Small Business Owner who lives and breathes pricing decisions daily.
◾ Dr. Derek Kruse: A Creighton University Instructor specializing in Strategic Marketing and Pricing, providing the academic framework.
◾ Jay Froscheiser: A SCORE Volunteer with experience as a Retiree Executive Official from DTN, LLC, offering high-level strategy insights.
Cost: Free (IF JOINING ONLINE)
Location: Online
Questions contact: Kiley Phelps, kcphelps@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77379

Entrepreneur's Education Collaborative: Pricing Strategies
2025-12-09 11:30 - 12:30
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (Hybrid – both In-Person & Online – THIS LINK IS FOR IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE ONLY)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CST
Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative: Pricing Strategies
Description: Stop Leaving Money on the Table! Master Your Pricing Strategy 💰. As a small business owner, you know pricing is everything. Get it wrong, and you risk profits, cash flow, and even your brand. Join the Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative (EEC) for an engaging hybrid panel session designed to take the guesswork out of your pricing and discover the power of effective pricing to drive profitability and growth. ➡️ Learn from Real-World Expertise – Your time is valuable, so we’ve assembled a panel that brings a 360-degree view of successful pricing:
◾ Victoria Mbachu: A successful Small Business Owner who lives and breathes pricing decisions daily.
◾ Dr. Derek Kruse: A Creighton University Instructor specializing in Strategic Marketing and Pricing, providing the academic framework.
◾ Jay Froscheiser: A SCORE Volunteer with experience as a Retiree Executive Official from DTN, LLC, offering high-level strategy insights.
Cost: $20.00 (IF ATTENDING IN-PERSON)
Location: MCL Construction, 14558 Portal Circle, Omaha, NE 68138
Questions contact: Kiley Phelps, kcphelps@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77380

SCORE: The 3 Marketing Strategies That Actually Work: Advertising, Content Creation & Direct Marketing
2025-12-09 12:00 - 13:00
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
SCORE: The 3 Marketing Strategies That Actually Work: Advertising, Content Creation & Direct Marketing
Description: Many small business owners feel overwhelmed by marketing, and for good reason. You’re surrounded by tools, trends and conflicting advice with no clear playbook for choosing what works for your business. Without a strategy, every tactic feels like a gamble, and results become random instead of reliable. In this session, our expert will break down the three marketing strategies that consistently work for small businesses and how to choose the one that fits your goals, industry, and customer base. You’ll learn why your tactics haven’t delivered predictable results, how the marketing process works, and which strategy gives you the fastest path to traction and measurable growth. You’ll learn:

Why marketing feels overwhelming and how to cut through the noise
The real reason your tactics haven’t created consistent results
The proven marketing process behind predictable, repeatable outcomes
The three marketing strategies that consistently work for small businesses
Which strategy best fits your business, audience, and time/budget
Real-world examples of each strategy in action

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77408

SCORE: Growing Your Business With a CRM
2025-12-09 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CST
SCORE: Growing Your Business With a CRM
Description: This is for business owners who are looking to get organized and gain insights into how prospects and customers are engaging with your marketing, sales, and service efforts. We will dig into what a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool is and the habits and processes that complement the technology. We will look at what structures are needed in order to attract more prospects, engage and convert more leads, and delight your customers.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org 952-938-4570
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77415

Center For Rural Affairs: Tax Readiness - Online - 12/9/25, 12/11/25 & 1/13/26
2025-12-09 18:00 - 20:00
Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Thursday, December 11, 2025 and Tuesday, January 13, 2026 (Online Only) MULTI EVENING COURSE
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. CST
Center For Rural Affairs: Tax Readiness – Online – 12/9/25, 12/11/25 & 1/13/26
Description: Are you looking ahead to tax season? Small business owners are invited to attend this multi-session tax preparation event. During these online courses, you will learn about financial statements, the difference between personal and business taxes, pass-through entities, and more. Other key discussion topics include:

How to classify employees and subcontractors
Changes to the 1099-NEC threshold
The importance of having separate bank accounts
Tax changes to be aware of for 2025 and forward
Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Jessica Campos, jessicac@cfra.org 402-554-6250
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77377

Veteran Business Outreach Center: Reboot to Business (Virtual Only)
2025-12-11 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday, December 11, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. CST
Veteran Business Outreach Center: Reboot to Business (Virtual Only)
Description: Boots to Business | Reboot provides assistance to anyone interested in exploring business ownership or other self-employment opportunities by leading participants through the key steps for evaluating business concepts and providing foundational knowledge required to develop a business plan.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Emmalee Scheibe, emmalees@nebbiz.org 402-685-5500
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77369

SCORE: QuickBooks Online
2025-12-11 10:00 - 11:30
Thursday, December 11, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. CST
SCORE: QuickBooks Online
Description: Do you approach bookkeeping like going to the Dentist, such as . . . it’s not your favorite task, it’s easy to put off, and it’s less painful when done on a regular basis? Lisa Peterson will take you on a practical tour of what is most important for small business owners when it comes to their finances, and she will describe the help that QuickBooks can provide. Topics include: What is a Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss? What is cash basis accounting vs. accrual accounting? Lisa will also answer the question of why you should care about understanding your finances and who else cares about your books – it is not just about you! This is a basic but engaging discussion about: chart of accounts, how to account for products and services, understanding the sales cycle, and how to account for expenses, including payroll. Most importantly, you will learn when you should look for accounting advice vs doing your books yourself.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org 952-938-4570
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77416

GROW Nebraska: Big Changes, Big Opportunities ~ What the New Tax Updates Mean for Your Business
2025-12-11 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, December 11, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
GROW Nebraska: Big Changes, Big Opportunities ~ What the New Tax Updates Mean for Your Business
Description: If you own a small business, the tax landscape just shifted—mostly in your favor. Join Tanya Luken CPA for a one-hour crash course on how the new tax updates affect your 2025 and beyond. We’ll unpack the good stuff in plain English:

Expanded childcare credits and simpler 1099 rules
New tip and overtime deductions that could change your payroll strategy
The now permanent (and slightly bigger) 199A deduction for pass-throughs
Higher write-offs for equipment, software, and improvements
New limits on SALT workarounds and what that means for planning Plan smarter, saving money, and staying ahead of the changes.

Bring your questions and leave with clarity. Can’t attend? Register anyway and we’ll send you the recording!
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Tonja or Cammie, member@grownebraska.org 308-338-3520
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77102

SCORE: Email Marketing Strategies Part 1: How to Get More Email Subscribers Across Every Channel
2025-12-11 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, December 11, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm CST
SCORE: Email Marketing Strategies Part 1: How to Get More Email Subscribers Across Every Channel
Description: This session is Part 1 of our Email Marketing Strategies series. To access this webinar and Part 2, you’ll need to purchase the complete course. Your email list is one of your most valuable business assets, but many small business owners struggle to grow it consistently. If your list isn’t expanding with engaged, high-quality subscribers, you’re missing out on a reliable driver of business growth. In this session, our expert will walk you through proven methods to capture more sign-ups and build a steady, sustainable list-building plan. You’ll learn how to build an engaged subscriber base, overcome common growth challenges, and capture more sign-ups across every channel. You’ll learn:

Why a strong subscriber base fuels business growth
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
How to build a list of engaged, interested subscribers
Strategies for in-person, online, and print sign-ups
Motivating Sign-Ups with Value – What makes people want to subscribe and stay engaged

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77409

SCORE: How to Project Cash Flow to Run or Save Your Business
2025-12-16 09:00 - 10:30
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. CST
SCORE: How to Project Cash Flow to Run or Save Your Business
Description: In today’s business environment, it is crucial to understand and manage cash flow effectively. Our workshop will help you interpret bank information and accounting software to run your business more efficiently. You will learn:

Why cash is so important to understand and manage in the current business environment
How to interpret bank information and accounting software to run your business
How to project your cash flow in order to take action and avoid running out of cash

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org 952-938-4570
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77417

SCORE: Game-Changing AI Tools – Automate Tasks, Create Content Faster & Grow Your Business
2025-12-16 12:00 - 13:00
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm CST
SCORE: Game-Changing AI Tools – Automate Tasks, Create Content Faster & Grow Your Business
Description: Small business owners spend countless hours on marketing and sales tasks that don’t move the needle forward. But with the right AI tools, you can simplify your workflow, eliminate busy work, and see faster results without needing to be tech-savvy. In this webinar, our expert presenter, Jam Anderson, founder of Jam AI, will introduce practical AI tools that make running your business easier. You’ll see how AI can support your daily operations, spark fresh content ideas, enhance your customer outreach, and give you more time to focus on the work that actually moves your business forward. You’ll learn:

Beginner-friendly AI tools that support everyday business tasks
See a live demonstration of how these AI tools work in real time
How to automate time-consuming sales and marketing tasks
How to Create scroll-stopping content in minutes
How to use AI insights to attract better customers and boost conversions

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/77410

score: Google Analytics Foundations: Setup, Navigation and Tracking
2026-01-06 12:00 - 13:00
Tuesday, January 6, 2026 (Online)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
SCORE: Google Analytics Foundations: Setup, Navigation and Tracking
Description: Google Analytics is a powerful tool for understanding how your website performs, but many small business owners never use it because it feels overwhelming or was never set up correctly. Without the right foundation, it’s challenging to trust your data or determine the best course of action. In this webinar, you’ll learn how Google Analytics works in a practical business context and walk through the setup process step by step. You’ll leave knowing exactly what Google Analytics tracks, how it supports smarter decisions, and how to confidently navigate the platform so you can start using your data right away. You’ll learn:
• Understand what Google Analytics is and why it matters
• See how Google Analytics tracks website activity
• Create and set up a Google Analytics property
• Add tracking to your website and verify it’s working
• Navigate the GA4 interface with confidence
• Identify key actions and mark important events as conversions
Cost: $25.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78614

score: Google Analytics Reports That Matter: Traffic, Engagement and Performance
2026-01-08 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, January 8, 2026 (Online)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
SCORE: Google Analytics Reports That Matter: Traffic, Engagement and Performance
Description: Once Google Analytics is set up, the real value comes from knowing where to look and how to use the data. Many small business owners collect data but aren’t sure which reports actually help them improve results. In this webinar, our expert will show you how to read the most important Google Analytics reports and explain what the numbers mean for your business. You’ll learn how to identify where visitors come from, which content performs best, and how to ensure your data is accurate so you can make confident, data-driven decisions. You’ll learn:
• Essential account and user settings to confirm your data is accurate
• How to read Acquisition reports to understand traffic sources
• Which marketing channels drive the best results
• How to use Engagement reports to evaluate website content
• How to identify weak pages and improve performance
• How to make confident, data-driven decisions using Google Analytics
Cost: $25.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78615

APEX Accelerator: An Introduction to Winning Business in the Government Marketplace (2026 Update)
2026-01-13 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 (Online)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CST
APEX Accelerator: An Introduction to Winning Business in the Government Marketplace (2026 Update)
Description: Government procurement can feel complex and intimidating, especially for businesses new to the space. This training provides a high-level, birds-eye view of government contracting, helping you understand how the system works, what opportunities exist for small businesses, and what it takes to get started. In this webinar, you will:
• Explore the multifaceted world of government procurement and gain a clearer understanding of what it entails
• Discover the advantages available to small businesses, including special incentives and set-aside programs
• Learn how small businesses participate and compete within the government contracting space
• Understand what it means to be “Procurement Ready” and the basic steps and prerequisites involved
• Identify common challenges small businesses face in government procurement
• Learn about practical approaches to addressing those challenges through real-world examples and success stories
• Gain awareness of how to build connections, identify helpful tools, and navigate the government contracting landscape
This introductory webinar is designed to build foundational understanding and set realistic expectations for businesses considering government contracting. Target Audience: This training is designed for individuals and organizations who are new to or exploring government contracting, including:
• Small business owners considering government contracts for the first time
• Entrepreneurs evaluating whether government procurement is a good fit for their business
• Early-stage government contractors seeking a clearer, big-picture understanding of the landscape
• Business development, sales, or operations staff responsible for exploring new revenue channels
• Consultants, advisors, and support professionals who work with small businesses entering government contracting
No prior government contracting experience is required. The training is intended to provide foundational awareness and context—not advanced tactics or deep technical instruction.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, vdoga@unomaha.edu 402-554-6250
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78577

score: Business Strategy on a Budget ~ Avoid Costly Mistakes Early
2026-01-13 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 (Online)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CST
SCORE: Business Strategy on a Budget ~ Avoid Costly Mistakes Early
Description: When you’re starting a business on a small budget, every decision matters. That doesn’t mean thinking small; it means thinking strategically. Many new businesses struggle not because they lack good ideas or hard work, but because decisions are made without a clear framework for how the business should operate, generate revenue, and grow. In this webinar, our expert presenter will show you how to build a clear business strategy when resources are limited. You’ll learn how to make smarter decisions from the start, align revenue and customer outreach, and use simple analysis to guide your choices with confidence. You’ll also see how a strong strategy can help position your business for future funding. By the end of this webinar, you will be able to:
• Build a clear business strategy when starting on a limited budget
• Define your business profile to support smarter strategic decisions
• Align revenue operations with your overall business goals
• Evaluate distribution channels before committing limited resources
• Use simple analysis to support confident, informed decision-making
• Understand how a strong strategy helps position your business to attract capital
Cost: $15.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78616

Center For Rural Affairs: Tax Readiness - Online
2026-01-13 18:00 - 20:00
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 (Online)
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. CST
Center For Rural Affairs: Tax Readiness – Online
Description: Are you looking ahead to tax season? Small business owners are invited to attend this multi-session tax preparation event. During these online courses, you will learn about financial statements, the difference between personal and business taxes, pass-through entities, and more. Other key discussion topics include:
• How to classify employees and subcontractors
• Changes to the 1099-NEC threshold
• The importance of having separate bank accounts
• Tax changes to be aware of for 2025 and forward
• Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Jessica Campos, jessicac@cfra.org 402-870-1521
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78588

SBA: Money Smart ~ Is Owning a Business a Good Fit for You?
2026-01-14 11:30 - 12:30
This engaging workshop guides participants through an interactive journey to assess their readiness for business ownership. While starting a business can be exciting and fulfilling, it also presents unique challenges. This class clarifies what it truly means to be a business owner and helps participants uncover their personal strengths and areas for growth. By the end, participants will develop a clear and insightful perspective on their preparedness to embark on an entrepreneurial path.
Register

sba: Money Smart ~ Is Owning a Business a Good Fit for You?
2026-01-14 11:30 - 12:30
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 (Online)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CST
SBA: Money Smart ~ Is Owning a Business a Good Fit for You?
Description: This engaging workshop guides participants through an interactive journey to assess their readiness for business ownership. While starting a business can be exciting and fulfilling, it also presents unique challenges. This class clarifies what it truly means to be a business owner and helps participants uncover their personal strengths and areas for growth. By the end, participants will develop a clear and insightful perspective on their preparedness to embark on an entrepreneurial path.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Jo Eckert, Jo.Eckert@sba.gov 402-221-7200
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78127

Nebraska APEX Accelerator - DCAA Cost Reimbursement Series – Part 1
2026-01-14 13:00 - 15:00
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 (Online)
Time: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. CST
Nebraska APEX Accelerator – DCAA Cost Reimbursement Series – Part 1
Description: The Nebraska APEX Accelerator and the National APEX Accelerator Alliance (NAPEX) are excited to announce the upcoming DCAA Cost Reimbursable Requirements Series. Part 1 of the Cost Reimbursable Requirements Series includes:
• Accounting System Requirements
• Real Time Labor Evaluations.
Prior to being awarded a cost reimbursable contract, federal government contractors need to ensure their accounting system is adequate for determining costs applicable to federal contracts. This is accomplished when DCAA conducts a Pre-Award Accounting System Audit at the request of a federal agency. During this training, DCAA will discuss the federal regulations that define an acceptable accounting system, evaluate the minimum requirements of the SF 1408 criteria, and how small businesses can prepare for this type of audit. Experts from DCAA will differentiate between direct versus indirect costs, define total contract costs, provide an overview of indirect allocation bases, and learn how FAR Part 31 clauses describe allowability, allocability, and reasonableness. Once awarded a cost reimbursable contract award, contractors are eligible for floor check audits, otherwise known as “real-time labor evaluations”. Join DCAA as we discuss what is a real- time labor evaluation, why DCAA performs them, and how small businesses can prepare for these audits.

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Charles Beck, cwbeck@unomaha.edu 402-690-4986
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78317

GROW Nebraska: Grow Through What You Go Through ~ The F.O.R.E. Framework for Reinvention and Resilience
2026-01-15 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, January 15, 2026 (Online)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
GROW Nebraska: Grow Through What You Go Through ~ The F.O.R.E. Framework for Reinvention and Resilience
Description: In a world where change is constant and setbacks are inevitable, the ability to reinvent with purpose is no longer optional — it’s essential. This dynamic webinar introduces the F.O.R.E. Framework: a strategic, emotionally intelligent approach to navigating uncertainty, reigniting momentum, and leading with clarity. Whether you’re a small business owner facing market shifts, a community leader driving local impact, or a coach guiding others through transformation, this session offers actionable insights and tools to help you:
– Find Your Bearings in the fog of change
– Orient Your Values to lead with integrity and purpose
– Reinvention by Design using modular strategies that scale
– Engage Forward with habits that build resilience and trust
Through metaphor-rich storytelling and real-world examples, Brian Zuger will guide you through the F.O.R.E. process — empowering you to turn setbacks into strategic breakthroughs.Join us to grow through what you go through — and lead forward with confidence. Can’t attend? Register anyway and we’ll send you the recording!

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Cammie Kroll info@grownebraska.org 308-338-3520
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78566

score: The Small Business Website Essentials: Attract, Engage and Convert
2026-01-15 12:00 - 13:30
Thursday, January 15, 2026 (Online)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CST
SCORE: The Small Business Website Essentials: Attract, Engage and Convert
Description: Are visitors landing on your site and leaving right away? Every lost visitor is a missed opportunity that can add up fast. The problem isn’t a lack of interest in your product or service, but that your website is missing the fundamental elements every website needs to build trust, drive conversions, and support SEO performance. In this webinar, our marketing expert Tim Contado will show you what your website needs to attract visitors, earn trust, and convert interest into sales. You’ll learn practical steps to improve your site’s structure, messaging, and calls-to-action. By the end, you will have clear and actionable steps to make quick website improvements that work. What You’ll Learn:
• The essential pages every business website must have and what each should accomplish
• How to clearly communicate what you do, who you serve, and why it matters
• What a “basic SEO-friendly structure” really means in 2025
• How to identify where visitors drop off and how to fix it
• Simple, effective calls-to-action that guide visitors naturally
• The trust-building details that make your business look credible and legitimate
• How to evaluate your website objectively and prioritize high-impact fixes
Cost: $20.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78617
