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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260602
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260603
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260507T181852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T212309Z
UID:36216-1780358400-1780444799@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success June 2026
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides Illinois entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nJune 2 – June 23\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \nWho: \nIllinois Entrepreneurs \nQuestions?\nPlease reach out to: \nMinerva Calatayud | mcalatayud@WBDC.org  \nFrancisco Ramirez | francisco@horizonteconsult.com  \n  \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success-aurora/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260527T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260527T130000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260519T213435Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T174136Z
UID:36345-1779883200-1779886800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:The Growth Lab | Episode 2
DESCRIPTION:The Growth Lab is back — and Episode 2 is going to be one you don’t want to miss.\nAt The Growth Lab\, entrepreneurs bring their real business challenges to a panel of experienced advisors and subject matter experts. In each session\, one founder takes the spotlight\, sharing the questions keeping them up at night while our panel of advisors delivers strategic insight\, honest feedback\, and actionable guidance. \nEPISODE 2 — Join us live May 27 | 12PM\nMeet Our Founder: Marianna Swallow | Executive Coach\, Professional Speaker\, and Founder of Speak Easy Strategies \nMarianna Swallow has spent over 20 years helping more than 25\,000 professionals become clearer\, more confident communicators. As the founder of Speak Easy Strategies\, she coaches executives\, teams\, and individuals on public speaking and presentation skills. \nNow\, Marianna is pivoting. She’s transitioning from one-on-one coaching to speaking and workshop facilitation\, and like many entrepreneurs in the middle of a big shift\, her marketing has hit a hurdle. The tactics that worked for years have suddenly gone quiet. And the question every established business owner dreads: Is any of this even working? \nMarianna is bringing those questions to The Growth Lab\, and our panel of experienced advisors will dig in live. \nThis is not a webinar. This is not a workshop. This is real talk\, real challenges\, and real solutions – live. \nAdvisory Panel\nMaura Downs | Chief Program Officer\, WBDC \nKaren Goldner | Managing Director\, Established Business Program and Services\, WBDC \nAisha Ahrens | Managing Director\, Entrepreneurial Program and Services\, WBDC \nTogether\, they’ll dig into Marinna’s questions\, dive into her challenges\, and offer strategic guidance. \nWhat to Expect\n\nMeet the founder and hear her story\nWatch a live advisory panel tackle her real business challenges\nWalk away with insights you can apply to your own business\n\nYou can join us live as a webinar and be part of the experience in real time\, or catch the full episode on our YouTube channel after it airs. Either way\, you won’t want to miss it.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/the-growth-lab-episode-2/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Episode-2-Founder-Announcement.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260520T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260520T130000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260512T152100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T152100Z
UID:36231-1779278400-1779282000@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Adopting a Digital Mindset
DESCRIPTION:In this workshop you will learn what a digital mindset is and why it is essential for you and your small business to grow and stay competitive. We will discuss how to choose the right digital tools and solutions for your business needs\, how to measure performance and impact\, and how to foster a digital culture among your employees. You will also have practical tools and tips to help you implement your digital strategy and grow your business.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/adopting-a-digital-mindset/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260513T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260513T130000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260429T224835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T153353Z
UID:36181-1778673600-1778677200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Lunch & Learn: Bridging the Digital Divide with Be The Data Hero
DESCRIPTION:Pauline McKinney\, Founder of Be The Data Hero\, will offer a workshop that combines digital tools and data collecting practices. Pauline is a strategic problem solver with a reputation for finding the signals others miss. She founded Be The Data Hero after seeing the same pattern everywhere: smart leaders drowning in data but starving for insight. Her work restores signal\, reduces unnecessary effort\, and rebuilds decision authority so businesses can adapt and grow without burning out the people running them. \nTopics Include:  \n\nWhat is data?\nWhy is data important?\nWhat tools exist to collect data?\nHow do we choose those tools?\n\nJoin us for this 60-minute Lunch and Learn sponsored by AT&T!  \nQuestions? Contact Ashlee Kingery at akinery@wbdc.org.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/lunch-learn-bridging-the-digital-divide-with-be-the-data-hero/
CATEGORIES:Established Businesses,Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Lunch-Learn-Bridging-the-Digital-Divide-with-Be-The-Data-Hero.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260512T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260512T130000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260504T221249Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T152124Z
UID:36186-1778587200-1778590800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Starting Your Business in Illinois
DESCRIPTION:Are you considering starting a business in Illinois? During the workshop\, we will take an initial assessment to help you recognize your startup strengths\, introduce you to five basic startup steps\, and review the legal entities recommended for startups. \n \nPresented by the Illinois SBDC at the Women’s Business Development Center.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/starting-your-business-in-illinois-66/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Starting Your Business in Illinois
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SBDC-WBDC-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260512
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260513
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260423T181219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T182342Z
UID:36093-1778544000-1778630399@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Road to Success Cohort | Spring 2026
DESCRIPTION:Only for those who completed the R2S Bootcamp. \nFOR IL RESIDENTS ONLY.  \nRoad to Success 2.0 is a six-session cohort\, for which the Bootcamp is a prerequisite. Road to Success cohort guides pre-venture and emerging businesses towards success by going more in depth into areas crucial for business growth. The cohort covers essential business concepts such as marketing & branding\, customer discovery\, goal setting\, pricing strategy\, as well as revenue forecasting. \nBootcamp alumni will be sent the registration link via email. \nQuestions?\nPlease reach out to: \nKinga Kosmala | kkosmala@wbdc.org \nAshlee Kingery | akingery@wbdc.org \n  \n\n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/road-to-success-cohort-spring-2026/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Copy-of-Cohort-Email-Banner-Promo-Template-12.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260505T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260505T113000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260408T183604Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T183802Z
UID:35972-1777971600-1777980600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Write a Business Plan Workshop
DESCRIPTION:FOR ILLINOIS RESIDENTS ONLY. “How to Write a Business Plan\,” a virtual workshop designed specifically for pre-venture entrepreneurs. In this workshop\, current and future entrepreneurs learn how to turn your business ideas into a structured business plan that sets your venture up for success. Whether you are new to entrepreneurship or refining your concept\, this session will give you the tools and confidence to move forward. \n \nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-write-a-business-plan-workshop-4/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T103000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260330T212702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T145317Z
UID:35936-1777366800-1777372200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Adopting a Digital Mindset Webinar
DESCRIPTION:FOR IL RESIDENTS ONLY. As a small business owner\, you recognize the many challenges that come with a fast-changing landscape like reaching new clients\, ensuring data security\, improving efficiency\, and just keeping up with the latest trends in technology. It can feel overwhelming with all the different digital tools and solutions available\, but by having a digital mindset\, you can leverage these tools to your advantage. In this workshop you will learn what a digital mindset is and why it is essential for you and your small business to grow and stay competitive. We will discuss how to choose the right digital tools and solutions for your business needs\, how to measure performance and impact\, and how to foster a digital culture among your employees. You will also have practical tools and tips to help you implement your digital strategy and grow your business. \n  \nSponsored by\n \n  \nPresented by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at the Women’s Business Development Center.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/adopting-a-digital-mindset-webinar/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T193000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260402T215157Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T215703Z
UID:35963-1776880800-1776886200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Funding Resources for Business Owners
DESCRIPTION:Illinois Business Owners! Securing funding looks different depending on where your business is in its lifecycle. This presentation helps business owners understand capital readiness and how funding needs and sources evolve from startup through growth and into established operations. \nParticipants will learn the difference between cash flow and capital\, explore various capital types\, sources\, and uses\, and understand which funding options are most appropriate at different stages of business development. The session also provides guidance on evaluating your own capital readiness so you can pursue funding strategically and with confidence. \n\n \nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/funding-resources-for-business-owners/
LOCATION:Santori Aurora Public Library\, 101 S River St\, Aurora\, IL\, 60506\, United States
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Funding-Resources-for-Business-Owners.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T130000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260409T201052Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T210348Z
UID:35985-1776859200-1776862800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:The Growth Lab | Pilot Episode
DESCRIPTION:We are excited to introduce something brand new from WBDC: The Growth Lab. \nThe Growth Lab is a dynamic advisory series where entrepreneurs bring their real business challenges to a panel of experienced advisors and subject matter experts. In each session\, one founder takes the “hotseat\,” sharing the questions keeping them up at night while our panel of advisors delivers strategic insight\, honest feedback\, and actionable guidance. \nThis is not a webinar. This is not a workshop. This is real talk\, real challenges\, and real solutions\, filmed and shared so that every entrepreneur watching walks away with something they can use. \nPILOT EPISODE — Join us live April 22 | 12PM\nFor our very first episode\, we are thrilled to feature: \nPauline McKinney\, Founder of Be The Data Hero \nPauline has spent over 20 years helping high-performance organizations turn data into decisions. Now she’s bringing that same power to small business owners\, and she’s bringing her biggest business challenge to The Growth Lab. Watch as she works through how to communicate her value\, connect with her ideal clients\, and grow her reach in a market that doesn’t always speak her language. \nAdvisory Panel \nKinga Kosmala | Director\, Entrepreneurial Business Program and Services\, WBDC \nMaura Downs | Chief Program Officer\, WBDC \nRegina Williams | Director\, Entrepreneurial Program and Services\, WBDC \nTogether\, they’ll dig into Pauline’s questions\, dive into her challenges\, and offer strategic guidance. \nWhat to Expect\n\nMeet the founder and hear her story\nWatch a live advisory panel tackle her real business challenges\nWalk away with insights you can apply to your own business\n\nYou can join us live as a webinar and be part of the experience in real time\, or catch the full episode on our YouTube channel after it airs. Either way\, you won’t want to miss it.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/the-growth-lab-pilot-episode/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Founder-Announcement-3-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260407T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260407T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260223T194311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T161327Z
UID:35459-1775552400-1775559600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nMarch 17 – April 7\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success-2/2026-04-07/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260331T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260331T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260223T194311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T161327Z
UID:35458-1774947600-1774954800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nMarch 17 – April 7\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success-2/2026-03-31/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260324T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260324T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260223T194311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T161326Z
UID:35457-1774342800-1774350000@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nMarch 17 – April 7\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success-2/2026-03-24/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260317T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260317T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260223T194311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T161326Z
UID:35456-1773738000-1773745200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nMarch 17 – April 7\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success-2/2026-03-17/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260224T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260224T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260127T171237Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T174434Z
UID:35288-1771923600-1771930800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Write a Business Plan
DESCRIPTION:FOR ILLINOIS RESIDENTS ONLY. “How to Write a Business Plan\,” a virtual workshop designed specifically for pre-venture entrepreneurs. In this workshop\, current and future entrepreneurs learn how to turn your business ideas into a structured business plan that sets your venture up for success. Whether you are new to entrepreneurship or refining your concept\, this session will give you the tools and confidence to move forward.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-write-a-business-plan-3/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260210T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260210T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20251216T190700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T193117Z
UID:35117-1770714000-1770721200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nJanuary 20 – February 10\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success/2026-02-10/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20251216T190700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T193117Z
UID:35116-1770109200-1770116400@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nJanuary 20 – February 10\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success/2026-02-03/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260127T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260127T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20251216T190700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T193117Z
UID:35115-1769504400-1769511600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nJanuary 20 – February 10\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success/2026-01-27/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260122T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260122T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20251222T172829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T180658Z
UID:35143-1769076000-1769079600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Duct Tape Won’t Fix your Marketing
DESCRIPTION:Too often\, small business owners piece together their marketing with quick fixes—posting when they have time\, running a one-off ad\, or chasing trends. The result? Effort without traction. \nIn this fast-paced\, interactive session\, participants take a step back to see the bigger picture. We explore how tactics like social media\, websites\, referrals\, and local campaigns work together (or don’t)\, and how to shift from patching problems to building a clear\, sustainable strategy. \nAttendees leave with practical insights\, fresh perspective\, and tools to make their marketing work harder for them.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/marketing-makeover-from-static-to-strategy/
CATEGORIES:Established Businesses,Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual,Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Marketing-Makeover-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260122
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260123
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20251209T210414Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T210414Z
UID:35035-1769040000-1769126399@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Cook County CannaBiz Pathways Cohort | Application Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Cook County\, in partnership with the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC)\, invites cannabis business license owners to apply for the Cook County CannaBiz Pathways Cohort\, a 6-week virtual training program designed to equip cannabis entrepreneurs with the skills and tools to launch\, operate and grow successful businesses in this highly regulated industry. \nCohort Details\nWho: Cannabis business license owners (Cook County-based) \nWhere: Virtual via Zoom (link provided upon acceptance) \nWhen: Every Tuesday\, January 27 – March 3\, 2026 \nTime: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM (office hours: 12:00 – 12:30 PM) \nThis Hands-On Program Provides:\n\nExpert-led sessions covering compliance\, operations\, marketing\, financial readiness and growth strategies\nOffice hours for personalized guidance\nPractical tools and resources to build sustainable and compliant cannabis businesses\n\nApplications close January 22\, 2026.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/cook-county-cannabiz-pathways-cohort-application-deadline-2/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Program-Hero-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260120T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260120T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20251216T190700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T193117Z
UID:35099-1768899600-1768906800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success
DESCRIPTION:WBDC’s Road to Success four-week Bootcamp provides entrepreneurs with the essential tools to build and grow sustainable businesses. Our Road to Success Bootcamp is a prerequisite which lays the foundation for business setup and planning fundamentals. After completion of the bootcamp and all its assignments\, graduates are invited to join our Road to Success Cohort\, which builds on this foundation with in-depth exploration of marketing\, customer discovery\, and financial forecasting. \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nJanuary 20 – February 10\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success/2026-01-20/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260114T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260114T170000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20260114T191413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T191413Z
UID:35230-1768377600-1768410000@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Write a Business Plan
DESCRIPTION:For IL residents only. How to Write a Business Plan workshop. We help our clients navigate the steps to write a successful business plan.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-write-a-business-plan-2/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251216T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251216T120000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20251203T230316Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T230316Z
UID:35022-1765882800-1765886400@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Starting Your Business in Illinois
DESCRIPTION:Are you considering starting a business in Illinois? During the workshop\, we will take an initial assessment to help you recognize your startup strengths\, introduce you to five basic startup steps\, and review the legal entities recommended for startups. \n  \n \nPresented by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at the Women’s Business Development Center.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/starting-your-business-in-illinois-61/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Starting Your Business in Illinois,Virtual,Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SBDC-WBDC-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251202T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251202T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20250929T185916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251104T185412Z
UID:34605-1764666000-1764673200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Write a Business Plan Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Whether you are new to entrepreneurship or refining your concept\, this session will give you the tools and confidence to move forward.  \n  \n \nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-write-a-business-workshop/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251118T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251118T130000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20251112T215523Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T215523Z
UID:34958-1763467200-1763470800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Smart Marketing Strategies for Small Business Success
DESCRIPTION:Please join the Illinois SBDC at the WBDC for a Digital Marketing Workshop \nIn just one hour\, you’ll learn how to: \n\nShow up where your ideal clients are and get noticed\nTurn likes and follows into real sales and bookings\nUse social media\, email marketing\, and content strategy without feeling overwhelmed\nCreate a simple digital marketing plan you can actually stick to\n\nYou’ll walk away with: \n✔ A personalized mini marketing plan\n✔ Clear next steps to grow your online presence without spending a fortune\n✔ Confidence to market your business authentically \nWho This Is For \nSmall business owners\, service providers\, creatives\, and anyone tired of posting into the void and ready to see real traction online. \n \nPresented by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at the Women’s Business Development Center. This training event is supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering\, I certify that I am legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars\, in accordance with applicable federal law and regulations.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/smart-marketing-strategies-for-small-business-success/
CATEGORIES:Established Businesses,Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SBDC-WBDC-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251022
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251023
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20250930T173130Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T173130Z
UID:34613-1761091200-1761177599@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Road to Success Cohort Fall 2025 | Application Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Are you ready to transform your business idea into reality?\nThis three-session cohort aims to bridge the gap in our entrepreneurial education offerings\, guiding pre-venture and emerging businesses towards success. The cohort will introduce fundamental business concepts and guide future and current entrepreneurs through the initial stages of setting up a business. This includes fulfilling state and IRS formalities\, opening business banking accounts\, drafting a business plan\, preparing a pitch\, and getting capital ready. Graduates will be invited to participate in our legal clinics. \nObjectives\nDuring the cohort\, participants will: \n\nAnalyze their business’s strengths and weaknesses\nRefine their business idea\nResearch their target audience\nDefine their ideal customer\nPlan their finances\nWrite a business plan\nPrepare a pitch\nComplete the necessary formal steps to open a business\n\nSession Breakdown\nSession One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \nSession Two: Creating Your Pitch & Marketing Strategies \nSession Three: Capital Readiness \nCohort Details\nIdeal Candidates: for pre-venture/emerging entrepreneurs\, looking to learn more about resources available to start a business \nWhen: Every Wednesday | 5:00 pm-7:00 pm\, CST | October 22 – November 5\, 2025 \nWhere: Via Zoom meetings \nReady to Start Your Journey?\nSpaces are limited\, so don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights\, connect with fellow entrepreneurs\, and receive personalized guidance from industry experts. \nWhat Our Graduates Have to Say\n“In this online class I have learned more about my business setup than I ever have. WBDC are exceptional women who have great information. They explain everything well. I am able to follow and learn more and more about what to do moving forward.” – Moremi T. Alexander \n“This class benefited me by helping me accomplish what I needed for my business that I didn’t know how to do. With the right tools and resources\, I was able to finish my executive summary\, business canvas\, marketing plan and more. This class also helped me understand why things are important so I do them\, instead of putting them off or thinking ‘that doesn’t matter for me.’ I am grateful\, thank you ladies!” -Krystle Miles \n“I am learning how to set up my business from the beginning to end. WBDC are an exceptional group of women. Totally knowledgeable.” – LeShawn Alexander \n“I am so grateful for you all\, it can be very lovely and challenging being a solo business owner\, and I truly enjoy this community. Thank you!” – Jennifer Schuman \n  \n \nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/road-to-success-cohort-fall-2025-application-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Copy-of-Cohort-Email-Banner-Promo-Template-12.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251007T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251007T110000
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20250822T175214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250822T175214Z
UID:34151-1759827600-1759834800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How To Write a Business Plan
DESCRIPTION:Join us for “How to Write a Business Plan\,” a virtual workshop designed specifically for pre-venture entrepreneurs. Learn how to turn your business ideas into a structured business plan that sets your venture up for success. Whether you are new to entrepreneurship or refining your concept\, this session will give you the tools and confidence to move forward.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-write-a-business-plan/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251006
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251007
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20250922T202600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T183533Z
UID:34523-1759708800-1759795199@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Plan For Profit Fall 2025 | Application Deadline | Illinois Businesses
DESCRIPTION:Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey to shape the future of your business?\nWe’re thrilled to introduce our innovative Plan For Profit program\, now at no cost\, designed for passionate entrepreneurs like you who are eager to start or expand their business ventures. The Illinois SBDC at the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) provides a comprehensive training program for entrepreneurs learning to work on their business\, whether they are start-up or emerging businesses. \nProgram Benefits\n\nConduct market research to identify target customers\nStrengthen marketing strategies and brand\nReceive financial advising and loan assistance\nGet one-on-one mentoring\nAccess online or in-person training\n\nSix Weeks to Success\nOver the course of six weeks\, you will: \n\nCreate a business model canvas\, including target market and value propositions\nTest your business idea in the marketplace\nFocus on key areas of your business\nPitch to an expert panel and get feedback\nHave a one-on-one advising session\n\nUpon completion\, you’ll receive a program certificate to showcase your new business acumen. \nProgram Prerequisites\n\nAttend the 2-session virtual boot camp\nCommit to one business idea for development\nAssess your business concept and readiness with our Director\nBring a laptop or tablet to sessions\nComplete a program application\n\nPlan For Profit Boot Camp: Your First Step!\nTake the first step in this exciting journey by registering for our Plan For Profit Boot Camp sessions. Participants who complete the Boot Camp and homework assignments will be invited into the full Plan for Profit program\, running weekly for six weeks on Thursdays. \nDetails\nWhere? \nVia Zoom \nPrerequisite Bootcamp Sessions: \nSession 1: Thursday\, October 9\, 2025 | 9:00–11:00 a.m. (virtual) \nSession 2: Thursday\, October 16\, 2025 | 9:00–11:00 a.m. (virtual) \nPlan For Profit Sessions: \nThursdays from October 30–December 11\, 2025 | 9:00–11:00 a.m. (virtual). \n\nThis Plan for Profit session is sponsored by the Boundless Futures Foundation through their Her Village Grant program.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/plan-for-profit-fall-2025-application-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Plan-for-….png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251006
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251007
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20250916T162703Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T200518Z
UID:34440-1759708800-1759795199@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Cook County CannaBiz Pathways Cohort | Application Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Cook County\, in partnership with the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC)\, invites cannabis business license owners to apply for the Cook County CannaBiz Pathways Cohort\, a 6-week virtual training program designed to equip cannabis entrepreneurs with the skills and tools to launch\, operate and grow successful businesses in this highly regulated industry. \nCohort Details\nWho: Cannabis business license owners (Cook County-based) \nWhere: Virtual via Zoom (link provided upon acceptance) \nWhen: Every Tuesday\, October 7 – November 18\, 2025 \nTime: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM (office hours: 12:00 – 12:30 PM) \nThis Hands-On Program Provides:\n\nExpert-led sessions covering compliance\, operations\, marketing\, financial readiness and growth strategies\nOffice hours for personalized guidance\nPractical tools and resources to build sustainable and compliant cannabis businesses\n\nApplications close October 6\, 2025.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/cook-county-cannabiz-pathways-cohort-application-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Program-Hero-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250916
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250917
DTSTAMP:20260916T093204
CREATED:20250821T224346Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T153946Z
UID:34148-1757980800-1758067199@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Road to Success 2.0 | Pre-Venture and Emerging Cohort | Registration Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Ready to Take Your Business Vision to the Next Level? Road to Success 2.0 Awaits\nRoad to Success 2.0 is a three-session cohort\, for which the Road to Success cohort is a prerequisite. Road to Success 2.0 guides pre-venture and emerging businesses towards success by going more in depth into areas crucial for business growth. The cohort will cover necessary business concepts such as marketing & branding\, customer discovery\, goal setting\, pricing strategy\, as well as revenue forecasting. \nObjectives\nDuring the cohort\, participants will: \n\nReview the initial steps of setting up a business in IL\nLearn how to set goals and create a list of actionable items\nVet their business idea\nGet to know their industry\nLearn marketing & branding and customer discovery\nDefine their unique value proposition & the minimum viable product\nThink about the sales & customer service\nSet up the growth wheel & review the goal setting\nGo over the financial aspects of running a business\nDiscover the digital tools for new entrepreneurs\nBe introduced the basics of accounting.\n\nSession Breakdown\nSession One: Knowing your industry. Marketing\, branding & customer discovery \nSession Two: Unique value proposition. Growth wheel. The financial side of running a business \nSession Three: Digital tools for emerging entrepreneurs and Introduction to Accounting \nGraduation – after completing the cohort\, a networking event at a local business \nCohort Details\nWhen: Every Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST | September 16 – September 30\, 2025 \nWhere: Via Zoom meetings \nReady to Start Your Journey?\nSpaces are limited\, so don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights\, connect with fellow entrepreneurs\, and receive personalized guidance from industry experts. \n \nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/road-to-success-2-0-pre-venture-and-emerging-cohort/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Copy-of-Cohort-Email-Banner-Promo-Template.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR