Tech Talks with Rob

Join us for "Tech Talks with Rob" an enlightening webinar series designed specifically for small business owners looking to navigate the complex world of technology. Each session, hosted by tech expert Rob DelMastro, will delve into critical topics that are essential for running a modern business in the digital age.

Various topics that we will cover:

• Professional Email Systems: Learn how to set up and manage a professional email system that enhances your business communication and credibility.
• Cybersecurity: Discover strategies to protect your business from cyber threats and ensure your data remains secure.
• Password Managers: Find out why password managers are a must-have for securing your sensitive information and how to implement them effectively.
• SEO: Uncover the secrets of Search Engine Optimization to increase your online visibility and drive more traffic to your website.
• Domains and Web Hosting: Get to grips with choosing the right domain names and web hosting services that align with your business goals.
• POS Systems: Explore the various Point of Sale systems available and how to select one that streamlines your sales processes.

Whether you are tech-savvy or just getting started, "Tech Talks with Rob" will provide you with the knowledge and tools to leverage technology for your business’s success. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, grow, and secure your business in the digital marketplace. During each session, Rob will present a brief 15–20-minute introduction to the topic at hand, followed by an interactive discussion and Q&A period. This series aims to create a welcoming environment where participants are encouraged to ask questions. Remember, there are no bad questions. 

Date:  Held on the first Wednesday of the month - click on date below to register
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Paula Pawloski at the Massachusetts SBDC at ppawlosk@umass.edu

  Sep 10  

Save the dates / topics TBD: October 1, November 5, December 3, 2025

Are You Bankable?

Your small business is “bankable” if a commercial bank or lending institution is willing to offer you financing, such as a loan or line of credit. Small business owners often seek financing to buy equipment or inventory, launch a new product line, open or expand retail or manufacturing operations, further grow an existing business, and more.

Contrary to popular belief, banks are eager to lend to small businesses. However, in order to be bankable, you need to understand your business' numbers, how to organize the numbers for a commercial loan, and how to present your personal and business story in a compelling manner.

In this webinar, you will learn how to:  

• Think Like a Banker – Discover how financial institutions assess your bankability
• Master Your Business Narrative – Craft a persuasive story that highlights your strengths and the opportunity
• Navigate Financial Imperfections – Learn how to present past challenges in the best possible light
• Prepare Your Documentation – Gather the right financial records to streamline your loan application

The webinar will be led by Karen Baldeschwieler, a small business consultant with Zenagos. Also joining us will be local commercial bankers.

Dates: Offered on multiple Wednesdays. Select a date below to register.
Time: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact:  Matin Hussainy at the Massachusetts SBDC - Greater Boston Region at matin.hussainy@umass.edu

  TBA   

Show Me the Money - Access to Capital

Join us for a concise, practical seminar designed for small business owners and managers seeking to grow their ventures. Learn essential strategies to secure capital through equity or debt financing. Small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to navigate financing options and boost their growth potential should attend this event.

This interactive session will cover:

• Key accounting practices for financing readiness
• Types of capital sources, including SBA-backed loans and microloans
• Tips for preparing financing applications
• Strategic business planning and accounting basics

The speakers will be:

• Sonia Descomiers, Commercial Lending Specialist — Berkshire Bank
• Tom Herald, Regional Director — Massachusetts SBDC at Clark University

Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. ET
Location: Clark University, Alumni and Student Engagement Center (ASEC) Building, 939 Main Street, Alumni Board Room 202, Worcester, MA 01610
Cost: No charge
Contact: Sarah Doran at sadoran@clarku.edu

  Register Online  

Cosponsored by Berkshire Bank

Important Training Notes

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 Executive Order 14218 ‘Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders’ (February 19, 2025).

Training registrations are booked on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve your space for fee-based events, mail your payment to the appropriate office with a copy of the completed registration form. Credit cards are accepted ONLY for the Massachusetts Export Center's events. Your spot is reserved once payment is received by the appropriate office. Training events may be added or cancelled; the training schedule is subject to change.

Training confirmations are sent from centeric@clients.msbdc.org. We use this email address frequently, so please add it to your approved sender list. A verification code will be sent from this email address allowing your to register for training. If you have problems signing in, please do not create a new account with a different email in order to register. For help registering, send an email to the contact in the seminar description. Please review our cancellation and refund policies.