Watertown Development Company

Entrepreneur's Education Collaborative: AI Made Simple ~ Practical Applications for Small Businesses
2026-03-17 11:30 - 12:30 UTC
Tuesday, March 17, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CDT
Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative: AI Made Simple ~ Practical Applications for Small Businesses
Description: This workshop will help/give you:

Understand what AI means for small businesses today
Affordable AI tools to improve marketing, operations, and customer service
Real-world examples of how businesses are leveraging AI for efficient operations
Managing risks, ethics, and data security when using AI

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Karol Gonzalez Rivera, karol.gonzalezrivera@cityofomaha.org 402-444-5066
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/81180

APEX Accelerator: Winning Strategies and Proven Best Practices for Government Prospecting (2026 Update)
2026-03-17 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, March 17, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
APEX Accelerator: Winning Strategies and Proven Best Practices for Government Prospecting (2026 Update)
Description: Stop Chasing RFPs. Start Creating Opportunities. If your government sales strategy begins when the solicitation drops… you’re already behind. This fast-paced, high-energy session cuts through the noise and shows you where real government sales success actually starts pre-acquisition prospecting. Designed for small businesses operating (or planning to operate) in the federal space, this webinar delivers practical, real-world tactics you can apply immediately. What You’ll Learn:
The Prospecting Shift That Changes Everything

The difference between acquisition and pre-acquisition
Where successful contractors spend most of their time
Why waiting for posted opportunities limits growth

Finding Agencies That Actually Buy What You Sell

How to identify the right federal agencies and military commands
How to evaluate whether they’re a real fit
Where to prospect based on acquisition changes over the last five years

The 20 Most Common Prospecting Methods. Not theory. Not fluff. A clear walkthrough of the most widely used government prospecting tactics — and which ones are:

Weak
Strong
Core to a winning sales strategy

Overcoming Small Business Roadblocks

The most common prospecting challenges
What stalls momentum
What successful companies do differently

Why This Session Stands Out: This isn’t a generic overview of government marketing. The strategies shared in this session have been used to support companies winning billions in federal contracts and multiple award vehicles. Joshua Frank brings decades of hands-on experience advising and training government contractors and delivers it in a direct, engaging, no-nonsense style.
Who Should Attend?

Small business owners
Growth and business development leaders
Entrepreneurs entering the federal market
Experienced contractors looking to sharpen their prospecting strategy
Executives responsible for accelerating government sales

If you want a clearer prospecting strategy — and fewer wasted business development efforts — this session will give you the structure to do it right.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/81155

SCORE: Advanced Negotiation Strategy to Protect Profit and Close Stronger Deals
2026-03-17 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, March 17, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Advanced Negotiation Strategy to Protect Profit and Close Stronger Deals
Description: From vendor and client agreements to pricing and hiring employees, negotiations are a constant part of running a business. The terms you agree to directly affect the profit you keep, the risk you assume, your business relationships, and your cash flow. Without a repeatable negotiation process, agreements are made reactively, putting your profits at risk. In this advanced webinar, you’ll learn how to approach negotiations with both a rational structure and awareness of the human dynamics that influence outcomes. We will examine frameworks that help bring structure and clarity, along with the emotional and behavioral factors that often make and break a deal. We will also look at real business examples to show you how these principles apply in practical situations involving clients, vendors, partners, and other high-stakes conversations. By the end of this webinar, you will be able to:

Understand and apply foundational frameworks such as BATNA, ZOPA, and Harvard’s 7 Elements
Recognize why logic alone often fails and navigate emotional triggers and behavioral biases more effectively
Use tactical empathy techniques drawn from the Black Swan approach to reduce tension and move conversations toward agreement
Apply a practical negotiation preparation checklist to real-world scenarios involving clients, vendors, and partners

Cost: $15.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/81313

SBA: Money Smart ~ Tax Planning and Reporting - Understanding Taxes and Your Business
2026-03-18 11:30 - 12:30
Navigate taxes with confidence! Learn to plan, report, and manage small business tax requirements in this dynamic, practical workshop.
This module equips participants with the knowledge and tools to navigate the tax landscape for small businesses. Upon completion, attendees will be able to:
• Identify federal tax requirements for small businesses and their owners, and develop a plan to ensure accurate accounting and timely payment.
• Understand general state and local tax obligations and create a strategy for managing and fulfilling these requirements.
• Learn effective methods for researching local, municipal, and county reporting and licensing requirements for small businesses.
Register

SBA: Money Smart ~ Tax Planning and Reporting - Understanding Taxes and Your Business
2026-03-18 11:30 - 12:30
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CDT
SBA: Money Smart ~ Tax Planning and Reporting – Understanding Taxes and Your Business
Description: Navigate taxes with confidence! Learn to plan, report, and manage small business tax requirements in this dynamic, practical workshop. This module equips participants with the knowledge and tools to navigate the tax landscape for small businesses. Upon completion, attendees will be able to:

Identify federal tax requirements for small businesses and their owners and develop a plan to ensure accurate accounting and timely payment.
Understand general state and local tax obligations and create a strategy for managing and fulfilling these requirements.
Learn effective methods for researching local, municipal, and county reporting and licensing requirements for small businesses.

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Jo Eckert, Jo.Eckert@sba.gov 402-221-7200
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78136

SCORE: Launch a Profitable Newsletter for Your Small Business
2026-03-19 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, March 19, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CDT
SCORE: Launch a Profitable Newsletter for Your Small Business
Description: A well-run newsletter can become one of the easiest profit centers in your business while strengthening customer relationships. Unlike social media, you aren’t relying on an algorithm, and you have direct access to your audience. But without a clear plan, it can quickly become a weekly task that takes time without producing results. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to generate revenue by launching a newsletter program and what you need in place before you launch. We’ll walk you through how to get started from building an audience, creating engaging content and avoiding common mistakes. You’ll also learn about monetization options and how to track performance to improve over time. What You’ll Learn:

How to quickly set up and launch a newsletter without overcomplicating the process
What to put in place before launching, including how to start building your email list
Content strategies that get opened, clicked, and read
Sales strategies that turn subscribers into paying customers
How newsletters actually make money and what to expect in the early stages
The key metrics to track so you know what’s working
Common mistakes that prevent newsletters from generating revenue

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/81314

APEX Accelerator: Unlocking DoD Industrial Base Opportunities: Navigating IBAS, OTAs, and the Cornerstone Consortium
2026-03-19 12:00 - 13:30
Thursday, March 19, 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/81156

SCORE: How to Start and Run a Franchise Business That Works for You
2026-03-24 12:00 - 13:00
Tuesday, March 24, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CDT
SCORE: How to Start and Run a Franchise Business That Works for You
Description: Starting a business is more than ownership. It should support the life you want to build. Franchising offers a structured path into business ownership by combining the independence of entrepreneurship with the support of an established brand and system. With over 5,000 brands available, spanning industries like food, fitness, education, and home services, there’s a franchise to match almost every passion and goal. An exclusive webinar that brings clarity to the franchising landscape. You will learn how to determine whether franchising is right for you, clarify your personal motivations, and explore a wide range of franchise models you may not have considered. From fitness studios to senior care to boutique concepts, you will see how to match opportunities to your skills, income goals and desired lifestyle. Key Takeaways:

Understand how franchising works and what drives success
Clarify your personal and professional goals
Evaluate your skills, resources and readiness for ownership
Explore franchise opportunities beyond fast food
Identify franchise models that align with your goals and lifestyle

Whether you are exploring business ownership or preparing to take the next step, this session will give you practical insights to help you move forward with confidence.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/81317

Build Your First Website: No-coding Needed
2026-03-24 15:30 - 17:00
Build Your First Website: No-Coding Needed

Tuesday, March 24, 2026
3:30 PM 5:00 PM

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

Perfect for beginners! This workshop walks you through the basics of building a website using no-code platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and more. We’ll compare pricing, features, and best use cases, then show you how each tool works so you can choose the right fit and confidently build your first site.
Presenter: Kendra Hinz, Aberdeen Development Corporation

Register Here

SBA: Money Smart ~ Risk Management - Planning for What You Can and Cannot Control
2026-03-25 11:30 - 12:30
Prepare for anything! Learn to spot, assess, and manage risks so your small business thrives—no matter what challenges come your way.
This module empowers participants to proactively identify, evaluate, and manage risks that impact small businesses. Upon completion, you will be able to:
• Identify the most common risks facing small businesses
• Recognize both external and internal factors that influence business risk
• Pinpoint situations that can create or increase risk for a small business
• Detect common warning signs that may signal potential risks
• Implement, monitor, and evaluate an effective risk management plan tailored to your business
Register

SBA: Money Smart ~ Risk Management - Planning for What You Can and Cannot Control
2026-03-25 11:30 - 12:30
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CDT
SBA: Money Smart ~ Risk Management – Planning for What You Can and Cannot Control
Description: Prepare for anything! Learn to spot, assess, and manage risks so your small business thrives—no matter what challenges come your way. This module empowers participants to proactively identify, evaluate, and manage risks that impact small businesses. Upon completion, you will be able to:

Identify the most common risks facing small businesses
Recognize both external and internal factors that influence business risk
Pinpoint situations that can create or increase risk for a small business
Detect common warning signs that may signal potential risks
Implement, monitor, and evaluate an effective risk management plan tailored to your business

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Jo Eckert, Jo.Eckert@sba.gov 402-221-7200
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78137

APEX Accelerator: Defense Production Act Title III (2026 Update)
2026-03-26 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, March 26, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CDT
APEX Accelerator: Defense Production Act Title III (2026 Update)
Description: Government Industrial Base (GIB) Readiness
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/81157

APEX Accelerator: Foreign Ownership, Control or Influence (FOCI) Rules for Federal Contractors (2026 Update)
2026-03-31 12:00 - 13:30
Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
APEX Accelerator: Foreign Ownership, Control or Influence (FOCI) Rules for Federal Contractors (2026 Update)
Description: Government Industrial Base (GIB) Readiness. Could foreign ownership—even indirectly—put your contracts at risk? If your company performs classified work, partners with foreign investors, has overseas affiliates, or is considering outside funding, Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) rules may apply to you. And the stakes are rising. In 2026, the Department of War (DoW) is expected to release its “Section 847” rules, expanding FOCI principles to certain unclassified prime contracts and subcontracts valued at $5 million or more. As a result, companies that have never had to consider FOCI may soon need to do so. Why This Matters for Contractors. FOCI issues can:

Delay or block contract awards
Prevent access to classified work
Trigger additional reporting and compliance requirements
Impact eligibility for certain programs

Under Section 847, FOCI considerations may also extend further into the supply chain than many contractors expect. Understanding these rules before they affect your eligibility is far better than discovering them in the middle of an award process. What You’ll Learn:

Which federal contracts are subject to FOCI rules?
How will Section 847 apply FOCI principles to unclassified DoW contracts and subcontracts?
How does the government evaluate whether a contractor is operating under foreign ownership, influence, or control?
What responsibilities do a contractor or potential contractor have to identify and report FOCI concerns?
How can a contractor mitigate an actual or potential FOCI problem?
What are some common misconceptions about the FOCI rules?
How do FOCI concepts apply to the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs?

Who Should Attend?

Contractors performing or pursuing classified work
Companies with foreign investors, parent companies, or affiliates
Small businesses seeking DoW prime or subcontract awards
SBIR/STTR participants
Growth and compliance leaders monitoring regulatory risk

If your business touches defense, classified information, or international ownership in any way, this is an issue you can’t afford to misunderstand. This session will help you identify potential exposure early and position your company to stay eligible and competitive.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/81158

SBA: Money Smart ~ Selling Your Business and Succession Planning - Developing an Exit Strategy for Your Business
2026-04-01 11:30 - 12:30
Plan your exit like a pro! Discover smart strategies for selling, transferring, and succession to ensure your business legacy lives on.
This module provides a practical overview of selling a small business and succession planning, equipping participants to understand the strategic value of planning for business transition. By the end of the session, you will be able to:
• Explain the different ways to transfer business ownership, including selling, closing, or passing the business to successors.
• Develop a comprehensive exit strategy for retirement, including succession planning, ownership transfer, and tax considerations.
Register

SBA: Money Smart ~ Selling Your Business and Succession Planning - Developing an Exit Strategy for Your Business
2026-04-01 11:30 - 12:30
SBA: Money Smart ~ Selling Your Business and Succession Planning – Developing an Exit Strategy for Your Business
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CDT
Description: Plan your exit like a pro! Discover smart strategies for selling, transferring, and succession to ensure your business legacy lives on. This module provides a practical overview of selling a small business and succession planning, equipping participants to understand the strategic value of planning for business transition. By the end of the session, you will be able to:

Explain the different ways to transfer business ownership, including selling, closing, or passing the business to successors.
Develop a comprehensive exit strategy for retirement, including succession planning, ownership transfer, and tax considerations.

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Jo Eckert Jo.Eckert@sba.gov 402-221-7200
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/78138

SCORE: If They Don't Remember Your Story, It Didn't Help You
2026-04-01 12:00 - 13:30
SCORE: If They Don’t Remember Your Story, It Didn’t Help You
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 PM — 1:30 PM CDT
Description: Learn how to have your customer remember your story so you can increase your sales. You may be great at what you do, but if customers don’t remember your story, it doesn’t help your business. The problem is almost always at the edges: a weak opening that loses people before the good part and a closing that fades instead of leaving an impression. In this webinar, you’ll walk away with practical tools to open in a way that earns attention and close in a way that sticks.
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 1-800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/northchicago/event/04-01-26-if-they-don’t-remember-your-story-it-didn’t-help-you

SCORE: Bookkeeping Essentials Every Small Business Owner Needs
2026-04-02 12:00 - 13:00
SCORE: Bookkeeping Essentials Every Small Business Owner Needs
Thursday, April 2, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 PM — 1:00 PM CDT
Description: Effective bookkeeping is the foundation of any financially healthy small business. Without accurate, consistent reporting, it becomes impossible to manage cash flow, prepare for taxes, or make informed financial decisions. In this webinar, you’ll learn how bookkeeping works and how to turn it into a simple, manageable process you can stay on top of. We’ll show you how to keep your books consistent, which financial reports you should review regularly, and the habits that help prevent minor mistakes from turning into costly problems. You’ll also learn how to keep your records organized year-round to make tax time easier, ensuring your estimated payments are more accurate and avoiding unnecessary surprises. By the end of this webinar, you will be able to:

Understand how bookkeeping works and how it differs from accounting
Recognize the difference between single-entry and double-entry systems
Choose between cash and accrual accounting based on your business needs
Identify the three key financial statements and how often to review them
Use clean books to support tax deductions, estimated payments, and fewer surprises

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 1-800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/event/bookkeeping-essentials-every-small-business-owner-needs

APEX Accelerator: An Introduction to Government Small Business Certifications (2026 Update)
2026-04-02 12:00 - 13:30
APEX Accelerator: An Introduction to Government Small Business Certifications (2026 Update)
Thursday, April 2, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 PM — 1:30 PM CDT
Description: This webinar provides a comprehensive overview of small business certifications in the government marketplace, helping participants understand how these programs can open doors to new contracting opportunities. You’ll learn about key federal certification programs, including Small Business Self-Certification, Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) & 8(a), Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB), Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone), Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB), and Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB). The course has been updated to include the latest developments from the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), recent SBA regulatory and enforcement updates, and Congressional legislation. In addition to federal programs, you’ll also gain insights into state and local certification programs, learning how they differ and where to find the right opportunities for your business.
After Taking This Course, You Will:

Understand why certification programs are valuable for small businesses
Determine your eligibility for federal certifications
Understand how the current administration’s policies have impacted SBA’s certification programs
Learn where and how to apply, including through the SBA’s unified certification website
Explore state and local certification options and how they differ from federal programs
Discover additional resources to support your certification journey

Target Audience: Small business contractors pursuing opportunities in the government marketplace.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu, (402) 554-6253
Registration Link: https://nbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/10338

APEX Accelerator: Intro to Federal Government Contracting
2026-04-07 10:00 - 11:00
APEX Accelerator: Intro to Federal Government Contracting
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 AM — 11:00 AM CST
Description: Join us for an insightful and practical webinar hosted by the Nebraska APEX Accelerator. 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.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, vdoga@unomaha.edu, (402) 554-6253
Registration Link: https://nbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/10333

SCORE: Learn How to Set Up QuickBooks for Your Nonprofit
2026-04-07 10:00 - 11:30
SCORE: Learn How to Set Up QuickBooks for Your Nonprofit
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 AM — 11:30 PM CDT
Description: The webinar will go through how to set up QuickBooks for your Nonprofit Organization. We will go through the initial system set-up including establishing a chart of accounts for ease of reporting requirements for tax, board and donor reporting. Attendees will be provided with a guide to setting up accounts along with links to videos that illustrate this in QuickBooks. They will also be provided with a checklist list of best practices to follow when setting up their organization.
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 1-800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/northchicago/event/04-07-26-learn-how-set-quickbooks-your-nonprofit

SCORE: Event Marketing Playbook - Turn Event Traffic into Sales
2026-04-07 12:00 - 13:00
SCORE: Event Marketing Playbook – Turn Event Traffic into Sales
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 PM — 1:00 PM CDT
Description: Major events like the FIFA World Cup, the Olympics, large conventions, trade shows, and festivals can bring thousands of potential new customers into your area. If your business plans on taking advantage of a local event, you can’t rely on your normal marketing strategy. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to build a marketing plan designed specifically for major events happening near your business. We’ll walk through practical ways to combine digital marketing with physical visibility so your business shows when attendees are looking around or online. You’ll also receive simple tools and templates to help you organize your promotions and prepare your marketing well before the event begins. In this webinar, you will learn how to:

Design digital and onsite marketing strategies that attract event attendees
Leverage signage, displays, and branded materials for maximum visibility
Combine online promotions with physical marketing for stronger results
Turn event traffic into paying customers
Use simple templates and tools to organize your event marketing efforts
Build a preparation and promotion calendar before the event begins

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 1-800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/event/event-marketing-playbook-turn-event-traffic-sales

SCORE: Assessing Cyber Risks: Play Cyber Jeopardy and Protect Your Business!
2026-04-07 18:30 - 20:00
SCORE: Assessing Cyber Risks: Play Cyber Jeopardy and Protect Your Business!
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 6:30 PM — 8:00 PM CDT
Description: Join us for a fun, interactive webinar where you will learn how to prepare your small business for the most common cyber threats. You will also get a chance to play Cyber Jeopardy to test your knowledge on all things cyber! Cybercriminals target small businesses every day, and knowing what you should do to defend yourself can be overwhelming. This is especially true when you are trying to figure out what to budget for. The good news is you can anticipate and prepare for most incidents by conducting a simple Cyber Risk Assessment. In this session, cybersecurity expert John Germain will walk you through an easy, non-technical process to identify risks specific to your business. Knowing where to spend your precious resources means you are protecting your business against the threats that matter most.
What You’ll Learn:

The key questions every small business owner should ask about cyber risk.
A clear, step-by-step process to assess your risks and create an action plan tailored to your business.
How to prioritize your risks so you can tackle the most critical vulnerabilities first.
PLUS: Cyber Jeopardy!

Who Should Attend?

Small business owners who want to protect their business without the jargon.
Entrepreneurs who think they’re “too small” to be a target (spoiler: you’re not!).
Anyone looking for practical, budget-friendly cybersecurity tips.
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 1-800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/northchicago/event/04-07-26-assessing-cyber-risks-play-cyber-jeopardy-and-protect-your-business

SCORE: The Human in the Loop: How to Run Your Own AI Systems
2026-04-08 10:00 - 11:30
SCORE: The Human in the Loop: How to Run Your Own AI Systems
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 AM — 11:30 AM CDT
Description: Business owners, marketers, and leaders who want AI to feel empowering instead of overwhelming should attend. Jam will break down what human in the loop means, how to guide AI with clear rules and feedback, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to messy or unreliable outputs. You will walk away with practical frameworks you can use immediately to build AI workflows that support your work instead of replacing your voice.
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 1-800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/northchicago/event/04-08-26-human-loop-how-run-your-own-ai-systems

SCORE: Protecting Your Ideas: Utility and Design Patents Made Simple
2026-04-08 12:00 - 13:30
SCORE: Protecting Your Ideas: Utility and Design Patents Made Simple
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 PM — 1:30 PM CDT
Description: James Larson, an Intellectual Property attorney, will provide a clear, practical overview of utility and design patents, explaining how each protects different aspects of innovation. He will cover patent protections from how an invention works to how it looks. Attendees will learn the key differences, strategic uses, and real-world value of both patent types, helping innovators and businesses better protect their intellectual property and gain a competitive edge. Please note that all fee-based webinar registrations are non-refundable. If you’re unable to attend, you’ll receive access to the recording and materials.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/protecting-your-ideas-utility-and-design-patents-made-simple

Nebraska APEX Accelerator: DCAA Introductory Series
2026-04-08 13:00 - 15:00
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. CDT
Nebraska APEX Accelerator: DCAA Introductory Series
Description: The Nebraska APEX Accelerator and the National APEX Accelerator Alliance (NAPEX) are excited to announce the upcoming DCAA Introductory Series, including Intro to DCAA and Audit Process Overview and Breaking into GovCon from a DCAA Perspective. Join us as we explore the roles and responsibilities of Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) as well as learn about the various types of audits performed throughout the acquisition lifecycle. Additionally, this presentation will provide an overview of DCAA’s audit process, and some common communications contractors will experience throughout the audit. While each audit is different, there are some common questions small businesses have relating to the process. Participants will learn the importance of adequate assertions, scheduling entrance and exit conferences, communicating throughout the audit, auditor site visits and requests for information. The DCAA will then break down the impact of the 2019 GAO “Contract Financing” report and the subsequent Defense Pricing and Contracting finance study, which cited government compliant accounting systems, Cost Accounting Standards, and FAR Cost Principles as barriers to entry for small businesses looking to enter the Defense Industrial Base. During this presentation, DCAA will look at the types of contract awards and the requirements for each, as well as the common misconceptions of FAR, CAS, and TINA.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Charles Beck cwbeck@unomaha.edu 402-690-4986
Registration Link: https://www.sba.gov/event/82150

SCORE: AI Doesn't Have to be Complicated
2026-04-09 10:00 - 11:30
SCORE: AI Doesn’t Have to be Complicated
Thursday, April 9, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 10:00 AM — 11:30 AM CDT
Description: Running a small business is demanding, but AI can make it easier. In this practical, hands-on workshop, you will see how tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and Gamma can help you save hours each week, cut costs, and reduce the stress of doing it all yourself. You will walk away with clear, real-world examples you can start using immediately, from simplifying marketing and research to improving everyday business decisions.
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: Bill Grosskopf, bill.grosskopf@scorevolunteer.org
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/northchicago/event/04-09-26-ai-doesn’t-have-be-complicated

Workforce Momentum: Navigating the Road to Economic Growth
2026-04-09 11:30 - 12:30
Friends,
The South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation is pleased to announce its next virtual Workforce Knowledge Series session. Our goal is to share insights on the topics that matter most to your business. The next session will be:
Workforce Momentum: Navigating the Road to Economic Growth – Thursday, April 9, at 11:30 a.m. CDT (10:30 a.m. MDT)

In this session, discover how Cornerstones Career Learning Center partners with businesses to support a higher-skilled workforce and fuel communities’ economic growth. Cornerstones will share how investing in your employees builds loyalty, efficiency, and long-term growth.
To register: Use the event link above to register for this online session.

Please reach out with any questions. Mike

P.S. All of the 2026 Workforce Knowledge Series presentations have been recorded and are posted on YouTube, if you missed any.
Search > Workforce Knowledge Series SouthDakotaDLR

APEX Accelerator: A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for SBA's Federal Small Business Certifications (2026 Update)
2026-04-09 12:00 - 13:30
APEX Accelerator: A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for SBA’s Federal Small Business Certifications (2026 Update)
April 9, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 PM — 1:30 PM CST
Description: Join us for a comprehensive webinar on how to apply for federal small business certifications through the SBA’s certification portal, MySBA Certifications. This webinar will provide a clear and concise overview of the certification process, empowering you to successfully navigate the application for federal small business certifications and avoid common mistakes that can lead to lengthy processing times or denial of your application. This course will teach you how to apply for the major SBA federal contracting certification programs, including HUBZone certification, Woman-Owned (WOSB and Economically Disadvantaged WOSB) certification, Veteran-Owned and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB/SDVOSB) certification, and the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development certification. This in-depth training will cover all steps in the certification process, such as:

Choosing which program(s) to apply for and understanding timing considerations
Registering and maintaining your business in gov
Creating an account in MySBA Certifications
Identifying, gathering, and organizing the required certification documentation
Preparing answers, narratives, and letters of explanation
Navigating the MySBA Certifications portal and submitting your application
Monitoring communications and responding to SBA information requests
Receiving the approval or denial of your application

Target Audience: Small business government contractors and APEX Accelerator counselors.
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: Veronica Doga, nebraskaAPEX@unomaha.edu, (402) 554-6253
Registration Link: https://nbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/10339

SCORE: Blogging for Small Business: How to Improve SEO and Drive Website Traffic
2026-04-09 12:00 - 13:30
SCORE: Blogging for Small Business: How to Improve SEO and Drive Website Traffic
Thursday, April 9, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 12:00 PM — 1:30 PM CDT
Description: Blogs remain one of the most effective ways to increase website traffic, but many business owners overlook blogging in their content marketing strategies. A well-written blog can help search engines prioritize your content for potential clients and organically drive them to your business. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to use blogging as a marketing tool that helps your business get found online, build trust with your audience, and bring more people to your website. You’ll also learn how to create effective blog posts and see how one well-written blog turned into content for email, social media and other marketing channels. Participants will receive a Blog Content Planning Workbook and SEO Blog Template to help apply what they learn.

Why blogging is still one of the most powerful tools for small business marketing
How blogging helps your SEO and Google rankings
The blog writing system, keywords, structure, headline and hooks to get clicks
How investing in one blog can save you time creating marketing content across the board

Cost: $15.00
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE, 1-800-634-0245
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/event/blogging-small-business-how-improve-seo-and-drive-website-traffic

SCORE: AI + CRM: Simple Tools to Grow Your Small Business Faster
2026-04-09 13:00 - 14:30
SCORE: AI + CRM: Simple Tools to Grow Your Small Business Faster
Thursday, April 9, 2026 (Online Only)
Time: 1:00 PM — 2:30 PM CDT
Description: Artificial Intelligence isn’t just for large corporations. Today’s CRM platforms include powerful AI features that help small businesses save time, improve follow-up, and increase sales. In this practical workshop, you’ll discover how AI inside your CRM can:

Remind you who to contact and when
Suggest next best actions
Write emails and marketing messages
Identify which leads are most likely to buy
Help you stay organized without extra staff

Cost: Free
Location: Online
Questions contact: SCORE Twin Cities, twincities@scorevolunteer.org
Registration Link: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/ai-crm-simple-tools-grow-your-small-business-faster
