Maximize Your Reach: Posting and Scheduling Tips for Entrepreneurs
2026-04-28 15:30 - 17:00 UTC
Maximize Your Reach: Posting and Scheduling Tips for Entrepreneurs

Tuesday, April 28, 2026
3:30 PM 5:00 PM

Business & Health Innovation Center, Northern State University1200 S Jay StreetAberdeen, SD, 57401United States (map)

Learn posting best practices and simple strategies to help entrepreneurs build a stronger social media presence with better reach and consistency. We’ll cover when and how often to post, what types of content perform best, and how to stay consistent without overthinking it. You’ll leave with practical tips you can start using right away to show up online more confidently and effectively.
Presenter: Kristin Harms, @TheBasicRanchMom

Register Here

Apprenticeship Summit
2026-04-30 13:30 - 16:00
You are invited to join the Start Today SD Team in celebrating the power of apprenticeship in South Dakota at our Third Annual Start Today SD Apprenticeship Summit.
This year’s theme Liberty + Labor: The Freedom to Build Your Future highlights the role Registered Apprenticeship plays in opening doors to opportunity, strengthening our workforce, and empowering individuals to create their own path to success.
Each year, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship designates a week in April as National Apprenticeship Week. To kick off the celebration in South Dakota, we’re bringing together employers, apprentices, educators, workforce partners, and supporters to recognize the impact apprenticeships are making across our state.

Date: Thursday, April 30
Time: 1:30 – 4 p.m. CDT
Location: Sioux Falls Convention Center

Highlights of the Summit:

Celebrating Success: We will host a graduation ceremony for apprentices who have completed their programs in the past year, showcasing the tangible results of this workforce model.
Honoring Excellence: We will recognize the visionary organizations and mentors whose leadership has expanded apprenticeship opportunities across the state.
Networking for Growth: Connect with Registered Apprenticeship Sponsors and workforce partners to discuss the future of South Dakota’s labor market.

Capacity is limited for this event. We encourage you to RSVP early to secure your spot among the state’s key workforce stakeholders.

Together, we can continue to champion the spirit of apprenticeship and ensure every South Dakotan has the freedom to build a prosperous future.

We look forward to seeing you in Sioux Falls.

SBA: National Small Business Week Virtual Summi
2026-05-05 10:00 - 2026-05-06 17:00
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 to Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm CDT
Agenda: https://www.cntvhybrid.com/nsbw2026/agenda
SBA: National Small Business Week Virtual Summit – PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Description: Participants will learn about topics varying from manufacturing, digital marketing, human resources (HR), artificial intelligence (AI), business planning, and online business resources. The Virtual Summit will feature educational workshops presented by cosponsors, information about accessing federal resources, as well as networking and mentorship opportunities.
Cost: Free
Location: Online – PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83713

APEX Accelerator: Key Government Contacts to Help You Win More Contracts (2026 Update)
2026-05-05 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
APEX Accelerator: Key Government Contacts to Help You Win More Contracts (2026 Update)
Description: Winning government contracts isn’t just about what you offer—it’s about understanding who’s involved in the process and how to engage them at the right time. In this training, you’ll gain a clear, practical understanding of the key government personnel who influence buying decisions—and how to position yourself with each one to move opportunities forward. What You’ll Learn

The key roles in the government contracting process—and how they interact
Who makes decisions vs. who influences them behind the scenes
When to engage each stakeholder during the procurement lifecycle
Proven strategies to build relationships that lead to contract wins

Why This Matters

Many contractors lose opportunities simply because they’re talking to the wrong people—or engaging too late in the process. This training helps you focus your efforts where they’ll have the greatest impact.

What You’ll Walk Away With

A smarter, more strategic approach to navigating the government ecosystem—so you can build the right relationships, at the right time, and increase your chances of winning and growing contracts.

Who This Is For

Small businesses and new contractors entering the government market
Existing contractors looking to improve win rates and relationship strategy
Business development professionals responsible for pipeline growth
APEX Accelerator clients and anyone supporting government contracting success

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83592

Your New AI Employee Works 24/7 and Never Calls in Sick
2026-05-05 18:30 - 20:00
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Your New AI Employee Works 24/7 and Never Calls in Sick
Description: You didn’t start your business by spending half your time on administrative tasks. Discover how small business owners use AI automation to handle the tasks that eat up their week — answering calls, following up on leads, organizing files, and generating reports — all without hiring anyone new. Walk away with real workflows you can start using the same day, presented by a consultant with 25+ years in enterprise AI now focused on helping small businesses compete with the big guys.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83703

Business Credit 101: Build Credit, Access Funding, and Grow Your Business
2026-05-06 10:00 - 11:00
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CDT
SCORE: Business Credit 101: Build Credit, Access Funding, and Grow Your Business
Description: Business credit can help you qualify for better financing, strengthen your credibility, and give your business more room to grow. Unlike personal credit, business credit does not develop on its own. It requires the right structure, intentional action, and consistent financial habits. In this webinar, you’ll learn how business credit works, why it matters, and what it takes to build it over time. We’ll walk through the key steps to help you establish a strong credit foundation, build a credit history, and improve your ability to qualify for funding in the future. What You’ll Learn:

Understand the difference between a business credit profile and a business credit score
Learn how business credit differs from personal credit and why both can matter
Set up the right foundation to begin building business credit
Use trade relationships and payment habits to strengthen your credit profile
Manage credit utilization and understand how it impacts your score
Monitor your business credit and prepare for lender evaluation with more confidence

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83708

Business Transformation Series #3 – Websites & SEO
2026-05-06 11:00 - 12:30
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Business Transformation Series #3 – Websites & SEO
Description: This Business Transformation Series is a deep-dive into Digital Marketing and features breakout sessions led by SCORE Mentors, workbooks and homework assignments and interactive discussion with other mentees and SCORE Mentors. Goals of this session include:

Understand why a website is important for your business and how to get started
Understand and implement website best practices with the principles of SEO
How to monitor your results and diagnose potential issues or improvements

Cost: $50.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83709

AI for Small Business ~ Find Opportunities and Take Action
2026-05-06 11:15 - 12:15
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. CDT
SCORE: AI for Small Business ~ Find Opportunities and Take Action
Description: A lot of business owners are already experimenting with AI but want to move beyond basic tasks and start applying it more strategically to create stronger business results. The challenge is knowing where AI fits, what opportunities are worth pursuing, and how to turn ideas into practical action. In this webinar, we’ll walk you through a practical process for evaluating and implementing AI in your business. You’ll see live demonstrations of how AI can be used to address common small business challenges, while learning how to identify high-impact opportunities, assess readiness, and prioritize AI initiatives that make the most sense for your business. By the end of this session, you’ll walk away with a clear 7-day plan to start implementing AI in your business. What You’ll Learn:

Identify the best opportunities to use AI in your business
Evaluate whether your business is ready to act on those opportunities
Prioritize AI initiatives based on impact and feasibility
See real examples of AI applied to common small business challenges
Turn ideas into practical next steps you can take right away
Build a simple 7-day plan to start using AI in your business

This webinar is part of the National Small Business Week Learning Lab, happening May 6-7, 2026, featuring free educational content, mentor connections, and a community of entrepreneurs.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83599

Small Business Financial Management ~ What to Put in Place at Every Stage
2026-05-06 12:30 - 13:30
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Small Business Financial Management ~ What to Put in Place at Every Stage
Description: Whether you’re launching a side hustle, starting a business, or preparing to grow, strong financial management plays a major role in long-term success. But for many small business owners, keeping up with bookkeeping, compliance, and the financial decisions needed to support growth can quickly feel overwhelming. In this webinar, our expert presenter will show you what the financial lifecycle of a small business looks like and how your financial systems or support needs change in each stage. By the end of the session, you’ll have a better understanding of how to build a stronger financial foundation, make smarter decisions as your business grows, and identify when it’s time to bring in the right support. What you’ll learn:

Build simple bookkeeping habits to keep your records organized from the start
Understand the difference between a bookkeeper and a CPA and when to use each
Identify the financial support your business needs at different stages
Recognize when to invest in services that help you scale, not just stay compliant
Make better financial decisions so you can focus more on running your business

This webinar is part of the National Small Business Week Learning Lab, happening May 6-7, 2026, featuring free educational content, mentor connections, and a community of entrepreneurs.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83600

Access to Capital in 2026 - How to Choose, Prepare, and Qualify
2026-05-06 13:45 - 14:45
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 1:45 – 2:45 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Access to Capital in 2026 – How to Choose, Prepare, and Qualify
Description: Accessing capital through options such as loans, grants, investors, and other funding sources is one of the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs in today’s uncertain funding landscape. Many business owners know they need funding to start, run, or grow, but are unsure which funding option fits their business or how to prepare. In this webinar, presented by business funding expert Marjorie Weber, you’ll learn how to prepare, qualify, and choose business funding in today’s uncertain funding landscape. This session is designed to help you better understand your options, prepare more effectively, and make smarter capital decisions based on where your business is today and where you want to go next. What you’ll learn:

Understand the difference between personal and business credit
Learn how FICO, Vantage, and business credit scores affect funding decisions
Compare grants, debt, and investor funding options
Identify the best funding paths for start-ups versus expanding businesses
Prepare pre-opening, expansion, and pro forma operating budgets
Make more confident funding decisions in a volatile 2026 environment

This webinar is part of the National Small Business Week Learning Lab, happening May 6-7, 2026, featuring free educational content, mentor connections, and a community of entrepreneurs.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83688

The Boomerpreneur Roadmap - How to Leverage Your Unique Advantages
2026-05-06 15:00 - 16:00
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. CDT
Score: The Boomerpreneur Roadmap – How to Leverage Your Unique Advantages
Description: Starting a business later in life can be a smart way to turn your experience, skills, and resources into income and independence. But many aspiring entrepreneurs over 50 are unsure where to start, how to reduce risk or how to build a business in today’s fast-changing marketplace. In this webinar, bestselling author and experienced entrepreneur Steve Strauss will show you how to leverage your experience and resources to launch a business that supports your lifestyle, goals and legacy. Steve will walk through how to audit your existing capital, identify a profitable market gap and use lean startup strategies to launch. What You Will Learn:

The Capital Audit: How to identify the 4 types of hidden assets you already own that younger founders don’t.
The Human-Centric Edge: How the human connection can help you stand out in an AI-driven marketplace.
Smart Launching: How to minimize financial and reputational risk.
Bypassing the Tech Wall: The ‘Simple 3’ tech stack that allows you to run a modern business without being a coder.
The Owner Mindset: How to design a business that creates freedom and an exit strategy rather than just a new job.
The Breakthrough Roadmap: How to avoid hurdles in the first 90 days that stop most boomerpreneurs.

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83689

Driving Growth ~ Delivering Profitable Sales and Delighting the Customer
2026-05-06 18:30 - 20:00
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Driving Growth ~ Delivering Profitable Sales and Delighting the Customer
Description: What you will Learn: How to create a compelling Value Proposition that drives sales and aligns your sales strategy with delivering customer value- focusing not just on closing deals, but delivering solutions that genuinely solve problems and justify premium pricing.
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83710

Building a Business Plan That Works - Key Elements Every Entrepreneur Needs
2026-05-07 10:00 - 11:00
Thursday, May 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CDT
SCORE: Building a Business Plan That Works – Key Elements Every Entrepreneur Needs
Description: Starting a business without a clear plan can leave you guessing about your next steps, your goals, and how to grow sustainably. A strong business plan helps you clarify your vision, make better decisions, and build a stronger foundation for long-term success. In this webinar, our expert presenter will explain why you need a business plan, the key elements every plan should include, and the key sections you should focus on. By the end of this session, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to build an effective, results-driven business plan. Learning Objectives:

Understand why a business plan is important for starting and growing a business
Learn the key elements every effective business plan should include
Identify the sections that deserve the most attention
Build a stronger roadmap for decision-making and growth
Gain confidence in creating a business plan that supports your goals

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83690

Exporting Resources for Small Businesses
2026-05-07 10:00 - 11:30
Thursday, May 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. CDT
SBA: Exporting Resources for Small Businesses
Description: Go Global, Grow Nebraska: Free Resources for Export Success. Turn local success into a global business strategy. Hear from the people who can help.
Presenters:

Patty Brewer, Export Finance Manager, US Small Business Administration
Meredith Bond, Director, Commercial Services Omaha, US Department of Commerce
Mariel Huasanga, Regional Director, Export-Import Bank of the United States
Heather Ranck, Director, Rural Export Center, US Department of Commerce
Omar Santiago Pagan, Office of Trade Relations, US Department of Homeland Security
Colby Angst, Economic Development Consultant- International Trade, Nebraska DED

Moderator:

Mike Marsh, SBA Nebraska Lender Relations Specialist and District International Trade Officer

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Mike Marsh, Michael.Marsh@sba.gov 402-221-7216
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83550

How to Design Your Website to Attract, Engage, and Convert More Customer
2026-05-07 11:15 - 12:15
Thursday, May 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. CDT
SCORE: How to Design Your Website to Attract, Engage, and Convert More Customers
Description: Are people visiting your website but not booking, buying, or leaving right away? Many small business websites are missing the fundamental elements that help clients navigate their website, build trust, and drive conversions. Join SCORE mentor and marketing strategist Tim Contado as he introduces a practical approach to website design grounded in behavioral science. You’ll discover how to create a website that clearly communicates your message to visitors, builds trust, and motivates them to take action. What You’ll Learn:

Why most visitors don’t read websites and what they do instead
How System 1 thinking affects first impressions and decision-making
How to use nudge theory to guide visitors toward action
What “friction” is on a website and how it prevents conversions
How to structure pages to improve clarity, trust, and engagement
Simple ways to make your website easier to use without redesigning everything
How to evaluate your website objectively and prioritize improvements

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83698

Insurance Basics for Small Businesses
2026-05-07 12:00 - 13:30
Thursday, May 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Insurance Basics for Small Businesses
Description: Are you a small business owner looking for the right insurance coverage? Join this workshop where we will help you understand the different types of insurance coverage available and which ones are best suited for your specific business needs. LEARN:

When does my small business need an insurance policy?
What questions should I be asking about my business and coverage?
What types of coverage (e.g. people, property) is most essential?
What is covered under various policies?

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, twincities@scorevolunteer.org
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83711

AI in 2026: What’s Changing and What It Means for Small Business
2026-05-07 12:30 - 13:30
Thursday, May 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
SCORE: AI in 2026: What’s Changing and What It Means for Small Business
Description: Small businesses have largely used AI as standalone tools, but that is starting to change as AI becomes more automated, more connected, and more capable of handling meaningful work. As AI continues to evolve, many business owners are left trying to determine which developments matter, which claims are hype, and where AI can deliver measurable business value. In this webinar, you’ll learn how AI is changing from tools to outcomes and what that shift means for small business strategy and day-to-day operations. You’ll see real-world examples and demonstrations of how AI is being applied across common small business functions today as we cover the trends shaping AI in 2026, where AI can deliver real business value, and which opportunities may not be worth the time or investment. What You’ll Learn:

How AI is shifting from standalone tools to more agent-driven work and what that means for everyday business operations
Learn which AI trends matter most for small businesses in 2026
Identify where AI can deliver measurable business value
Recognize where AI may not be worth the effort or investment
Explore the key strategic decisions small business owners should be making as AI evolves
See real-world examples and demonstrations of AI applied to common small business functions
See real-world examples and demonstrations of AI applied to common small business functions

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83699

How to Turn Your Side Hustle Into a Full-Time Business
2026-05-07 13:45 - 14:45
Thursday, May 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 1:45 – 2:45 p.m. CDT
SCORE: How to Turn Your Side Hustle Into a Full-Time Business
Description: If you’ve been thinking about turning your side hustle into a full-time business but are not sure when to make the leap, you’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs want to go full-time with their business but worry about money, family support, and whether the business is ready. Join Ramon Ray, entrepreneur, author, and small business expert, for a practical webinar built to help you think through the transition from employee to full-time business owner. With years of firsthand experience building businesses while balancing a full-time job and family responsibilities, Ramon has launched multiple companies and helped entrepreneurs grow stronger businesses. In this session, he’ll show you how to evaluate your readiness, manage the transition wisely, and turn your side hustle into a full-time business with confidence. In this webinar, you will learn:

How to leverage your current role as your business’s greatest asset.
How to get your family on board as you shift from side hustle to full-time business owner
The 3 key signs that it may be too soon to leave your day job
Practical tactics for growing your business without burning out.
How to identify legal issues to watch for when managing a job and a side hustle

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83700

Finding Grants and Sponsorships – Locate Opportunities, Apply Confidently, Stand Out to Funders
2026-05-07 15:00 - 16:00
Thursday, May 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Finding Grants and Sponsorships – Locate Opportunities, Apply Confidently, Stand Out to Funders
Description: If you’ve been searching for grants or other funding and still feel unsure where to begin, you’re not alone. Many business owners assume grants are widely available, only to find out they’re highly competitive, limited and often harder to secure than expected. Join Cheryl Smith, CEO of Dewlyn Nonprofit Services, for a practical webinar designed to help you understand what opportunities are available, where to find them, and how to strategically pursue them. With over 25 years of experience, Cheryl has helped thousands of nonprofit and small business leaders navigate funding and prepare stronger, more competitive applications. In this session, she’ll show you how to navigate the funding process, determine whether your business is ready, and take steps to become more competitive. What You’ll Learn:

How to find legitimate small business grants, sponsorships, and funding databases
What it means to be “grant-ready” and how to determine your eligibility
How to prepare for different types of funding beyond just grants
Key documents funders expect and how to get them ready

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83701

APEX Accelerator: Creating a Killer Capability Statement That Communicates Value (2026 Update)
2026-05-12 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
APEX Accelerator: Creating a Killer Capability Statement That Communicates Value (2026 Update)
Description: You have seconds—not minutes—to convince a government buyer or teaming partner that your company is capable, credible, and worth engaging in. Your capability statement is your most important marketing tool in the federal space—but most fall flat. They either look outdated, say too little, or fail to clearly communicate value. This training shows you how to fix that. What You’ll Learn

What makes a capability statement stand out (and what makes them get ignored)
The essential sections every strong capability statement needs
How to present your company in a way that signals credibility and maturity—even if you’re new to government contracting
How to use Value Mapping to translate past performance into clear, compelling proof of value
Practical guidance on layout, structure, and visuals (no design experience required)

Why This Matters

Most capability statements are just lists of services. That’s not enough. To succeed in government contracting, you need to clearly communicate why your company matters—not just what you do. This training helps you turn your experience (even commercial work) into something that resonates with government buyers and teaming partners.

What You’ll Walk Away With

A step-by-step approach to creating or improving your capability statement—so it quickly communicates your strengths, differentiators, and value in a way that gets attention and opens doors.

Who This Is For

Small businesses entering or growing in government contracting
Companies without strong federal past performance looking to position themselves more competitively
Business development, marketing, and proposal professionals
APEX Accelerator clients and those supporting GovCon success

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83593

2026 America’s Seed Fund Week
2026-05-12 12:00 - 17:00
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 to Thursday, May 14, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm EDT
SBA: 2026 America’s Seed Fund Week
Description: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will host America’s Seed Fund Week 2026 from May 12-14. This free online event connects entrepreneurs, innovators, researchers, and support organizations from across the country to America’s Seed Fund — the nation’s largest source of early-stage, non-dilutive funding for technology startups.

Opportunities to engage directly with federal agency representatives through Meet the Program Director sessions focused on manufacturing, energy, and health
Programming covering SBIR/STTR basics, agency overviews, and how to align your R&D project with the right federal partner
Panels featuring insights from evaluators and program leaders on preparing strong proposals and navigating the application process
Details on program changes from the Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act and how companies can prepare
Access to FAST sites, organizations that help innovators across the country compete for SBIR/STTR awards

Whether you are exploring the program for the first time or preparing for your next application, America’s Seed Fund Week offers practical guidance, direct connections, and valuable resources to support your innovation journey. Register today!
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Office of Investment and Innovation, technology@sba.gov
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83839

Stop Scrollers in Their Tracks
2026-05-14 11:30 - 12:30
Thursday, May 14, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CDT
GROW Nebraska Women’s Business Center: Stop Scrollers in Their Tracks
Description: Lisa Hilferty founded Buzz Online in 2016 and has always had a passion for turning great ideas into income. What started with a simple Facebook post for her parents’ business quickly turned into a full-blown love for digital advertising. Almost 10 years later, she’s still doing what she loves – helping small businesses grow by creating a buzz online, bringing years of hands-on advertising experience to every project.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Nekola Distefano, nekola@gnwbc.org 402-300-8170
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83721

Entrepreneur's Education Collaborative: Understanding Capital Options and Debunking Myths
2026-05-19 11:30 - 12:30
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CDT
Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative: Understanding Capital Options and Debunking Myths
Description: Access to capital is one of the most important factors in launching, sustaining, and growing a small business. Yet many business owners face confusion, misinformation, and uncertainty when exploring their funding options. This panel discussion brings together lending and investment experts to provide a clear, honest, and actionable overview of today’s capital landscape. Attendees will learn how different funding sources work, what lenders and investors truly look for, and how to prepare a business to be capital ready. The conversation will also address common myths that often discourage entrepreneurs from pursuing the financial support they need. By the end of the session, participants will be better equipped to match the right type of capital to their business stage, goals, and long-term growth plans. Key Topics:

Overview of options for different funding sources
Common myths about accessing capital and the realities small businesses need to know
Preparing your business to be ready for lenders and investors
How to align the right type of capital with your business stage and growth goals

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Karol Gonzalez Rivera, karol.gonzalezrivera@cityofomaha.org
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83724

SCORE: Amplify Your Brand: Creating Marketing Strategies Around Major Events
2026-05-19 12:00 - 13:00
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Amplify Your Brand: Creating Marketing Strategies Around Major Events
Description: Major events like the FIFA World Cup or the Olympics can be a great opportunity for businesses to get in front of new audiences, build excitement, and increase visibility. However, without a clear strategy, it can be easy to miss the opportunity to turn that attention into lasting brand growth. Join Sharon Lee Thony, Founder and CEO of SLT Consulting, for a strategic webinar on creating a marketing campaign that captures the excitement of major events while supporting your overall brand goals. With over 20 years of marketing experience, Sharon has helped brands create campaigns that drive engagement and long-term growth. In this session, she’ll show you how to design event-driven marketing strategies that strengthen brand presence, connect with customers, and maintain momentum even after the event ends. In this webinar, you will learn how to:

Design marketing strategies around major events to amplify brand presence
Use event-driven campaigns to increase customer engagement and awareness
Sustain momentum from major events for long-term brand growth
Identify practical ways to integrate event-based marketing into your overall strategy

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83702

APEX Accelerator: Limitations on Subcontracting: A Step-by-Step Compliance Guide (2026 Update)
2026-05-19 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
APEX Accelerator: Limitations on Subcontracting: A Step-by-Step Compliance Guide (2026 Update)
Description: Limitations on Subcontracting (LoS) is one of the most confusing—and most enforced—rules in government contracting. For small businesses and their teaming partners, getting it wrong can lead to serious consequences. And the challenge? You may be asked to prove compliance at any point—before, during, or after contract performance. This training breaks down LoS in clear, practical terms so you can understand what’s required and how to stay compliant. What You’ll Learn:

What the limitations on subcontracting rule actually requires
How LoS applies to set-aside and sole-source contracts
A step-by-step process to determine and maintain compliance
Common pitfalls that can put your company at risk
Real-world examples to help you apply the rule with confidence

Why This Matters

LoS isn’t just a technical requirement—it’s an area of active enforcement. Missteps can result in penalties, lost contracts, and reputational damage.

What You’ll Walk Away With

A clear understanding of how to navigate LoS requirements and a practical framework you can use to confidently assess compliance with your contracts.

Who This Is For

Small businesses performing or pursuing set-aside contracts (8(a), WOSB, HUBZone, SDVOSB)
Prime contractors responsible for ensuring compliance on awarded contracts
Subcontractors and teaming partners who need to understand their role in compliance
Business development, contracts, and compliance professionals

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83594

Pitching Your Business: What Investors Actually Want to Hear
2026-05-19 15:30 - 17:00
Pitching Your Business: What Investors Actually Want to Hear

Tuesday, May 19, 2026
3:30 PM 5:00 PM

Business & Health Innovation Center, Northern State University1200 S Jay StreetAberdeen, SD, 57401United States (map)

Learn what investors, lenders, and judges actually want to hear. Mike will cover how to structure your pitch, what to include (and what to leave out), and how to communicate your value clearly and confidently. Perfect for entrepreneurs preparing for a competition or pitching to a bank or angel investor.
Presenter: Mike Bockorny, CEO of The 17-20 Group and Economic Development Professionals Association (EDPA) of South Dakota

Register Here

APEX Accelerator: Unlocking DoD Industrial Base Opportunities: Navigating IBAS, OTAs, and the Cornerstone Consortium
2026-05-20 12:00 - 13:30
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
APEX Accelerator: Unlocking DoD Industrial Base Opportunities: Navigating IBAS, OTAs, and the Cornerstone Consortium
Description: The Department of Defense is investing billions of dollars to strengthen and expand the United States defense industrial base. These investments span advanced manufacturing, supply chain resiliency, workforce development, automation, technology innovation, and critical capability expansion. This training provides a practical roadmap to understanding and engaging directly with the Department of Defense through the Cornerstone Consortium in support of the Department’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program. We will cover:

What the IBAS program is and how it strengthens the defense industrial base
What the DoD is seeking from innovative businesses across manufacturing, workforce development, supply chain modernization, automation, cybersecurity, advanced technologies, and critical infrastructure
How the Cornerstone Consortium functions as a gateway into DoD industrial base initiatives
How to identify and respond to opportunities posted as Special Notices on SAM.gov
How to submit white papers and unsolicited proposals
How Other Transaction (OT) agreements under 10 U.S.C. 4022 (DoD
Prototype OT Authority) enable flexible prototype and expansion projects
How to identify and engage other contractors strategically
Key compliance considerations

Whether you are a manufacturer, technology developer, workforce solutions provider, automation integrator, cybersecurity firm, or an innovative company seeking to contribute to strengthening the U.S. industrial base, this session will show you where the entry points are and how to pursue them intelligently.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/83595

Watertown Business Fraud Seminar
2026-06-11 09:45 - 10:00
In partnership with the Watertown Chamber of Commerce and Watertown Police Department, we are excited to offer a FREE seminar on Thursday, June 11th at the Library (donuts provided!).

With the continual rise in payment fraud on business accounts, it’s more valuable than ever to keep businesses informed. Detectives Sig Sivertson, Jeremy Bjerke, and I will share insights on regional fraud trends affecting businesses and nonprofits, the risks and liabilities tied to a business account, and practical takeaways to protect assets, reputation and bottom line. It is sure to be eye-opening and worthwhile.

We hope you’ll join us and take the opportunity to network with others in the community, too! To confirm your attendance for June 11th, please RSVP using the below link, QR on the attached flyer, or simply reply back my way. Thanks and hope to talk soon!

Save your seat: Watertown Business Fraud Seminar
