Training Events
The Massachusetts Small Business Development Center - Berkshire Region conducts free and low-cost workshops and conferences addressing a wide range of concerns for both start-up and existing businesses. Many of these programs are cosponsored with local chambers of commerce, colleges and universities, community development organizations, trade associations, banks and corporate sponsors.
For a complete listing of Massachusetts SBDC seminars offered throughout the state, please visit the statewide calendar at www.msbdc.org. Visit our video page for past trainings and helpful videos.
How AI Is Changing How Customers Find Your Business
Join us for this in-person event!
Not getting found online? Search is changing fast — customers are asking AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity who to call, not just using Google. Join this hands-on workshop for small business owners (no tech skills needed). You will learn where your business stands today and what to do next.
In this session, you will learn how to:
- Audit your Google Business Profile
- Discover the keywords your customers actually use
- See if AI tools recommend your business — or your competitors
- Learn what others are doing better
You will leave with:
- A local keyword strategy
- Ready-to-use AI prompts
- A clear 90-day action plan
Who should attend? Any small business owner who wants more customers to find them online.
PLEASE BRING YOUR LAPTOP AS THIS IS A HANDS-ON TRAINING! Seating is limited, so reserve your spot now!
Date: Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00
p.m. ET
Location: BIC Works @ MASS MoCA, 1040 Mass MoCA Way,
North Adams
Cost: No charge
Contact: Massachusetts SBDC - Berkshire Region at 413-545-0932
Cosponsored by the Williamstown Chamber of Commerce and the North Adams Partnership
Conversations That Matter: Understanding SBA Funding: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know
Are you a small business owner looking to grow, expand, or invest in your operations but unsure how to access the capital you need? Join us as we sit down with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for an insightful chat designed specifically for business owners like you.
We will cut through the confusion around SBA financing — breaking down programs like the 7(a) and 504 loan programs and other key SBA resources, explaining how the SBA partners with your local bank rather than lending directly to businesses, and demystifying the process so you walk away with a clear understanding of the options available to you. But that's not all — we will also explore the SBA's Made in America manufacturing initiative and what it could mean for businesses in our region that produce, assemble, or supply goods right here in Berkshire County.
Whether you're exploring financing for the first time or looking to take your business to the next level, this is your opportunity to get real answers from someone with direct knowledge and experience. After our 20-minute conversation, we will open things up for your questions—so feel free to jump in and be part of the discussion!
The speaker will be Shelley Gillis, outreach and marketing specialist with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This event is hosted by Rob DelMastro, regional director with the Massachusetts SBDC - Berkshire Region.
Date: Wednesday, April 22,
2026
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Massachusetts SBDC - Berkshire Region
at 413-545-0932
Click on icon below to listen to recordings from our recent podcasts, Conversations That Matter.
Massachusetts SBDC training events are supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering, you certify that you are legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, in accordance with applicable federal law and regulations.