Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network

 

Massachusetts SBDC Statewide Training & Event Calendar

  

Preregistration is required for all events. If no link is listed on the registration page, online registration is not available or registration is closed. Please read important training and registration information by clicking here.


 
export
The Massachusetts Export Center organizes seminars, webinars and events throughout the year under Partners for Trade—the official export training initiative of the Commonwealth.
 
On the calendar below, globe indicates an exporting training event.

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

~~~ 2025 Training Calendar 

Unless otherwise noted, training is offered online.              globe = export training
 SEPTEMBER
24 Human Resources: The Startup Power Move No One Talks About (Worcester)
24 Professional Interactive Podcast Series
25 Traveling Resource Tour (Taunton)
 
 OCTOBER
1 Tech Talks with Rob (topic: How is AI Transforming Cyber Threats?)
7 How to Start a Business
8 Country of Origin as a Tariff Mitigation Strategy in the Current Trade Environment
8 Understanding Cash Flow and How It Affects Your Business
16 AI and Export Compliance: Going Beyond the Consolidated Screening List
21 Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for Beginners
24 Compliance Clinic
28 Google Analytics Made Simple: Unlock the Key Insights for Your Business
30 Traveling Resource Tour (Brockton)
 
 NOVEMBER
4 First Employee Essentials: An Overview for Small Business Hiring
5 Tech Talks with Rob (topic: TBD)
7 Mastering Tariff Management: The Essential Tools
13 Exploring the Government Marketplace
19 Cybersecurity Basics: Protecting Yourself and Your Business
20 Traveling Resource Tour (Quincy)
 
 DECEMBER
3 Tech Talks with Rob (topic: TBD)
10 Finding Government Contracting Opportunities
 




 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

  
 

 

 

    

  

  

  

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Program Descriptions


Tech Talks with Rob

Tech Talks with RobJoin 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

     

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

Human Resources: The Startup Power Move No One Talks About

Think Human Resources (HR) is just for later? Think again.

Join us for a tactical workshop that breaks down the people-side of startup building, from your first hire to your growing team. Learn the biggest HR pitfalls that derail startups, how to stay compliant, and how to create a culture and structure that supports scale. Many startups delay or deprioritize HR until it’s too late. But your first few hires, policies, and cultural decisions can either lay the groundwork for scalable growth or create hidden liabilities and toxic patterns. This session gives founders the tools to build a strong, compliant, and scalable HR foundation even before Series A. Early-stage founders, co-founders, and startup leaders are encouraged to attend this event.

The speaker will be Anna Welland, a strategic HR leader and business operations partner with 15+ years of experience building and scaling people operations for startups and mission-driven organizations. She understands that in small and early-stage companies, leaders often wear multiple hats, leaving little time to focus on building scalable HR systems, processes, and strategies.

Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. ET
Location: Clark University, Lurie Conference Room, 950 Main Street, Worcester
Cost: No charge
Contact: Sarah Doran at the Massachusetts SBDC at sadoran@clarku.edu

Professional Interactive Podcast Series

The Massachusetts SBDC - Berkshire Region proudly presents an engaging virtual podcast series.

Our featured guest, Dr. Ben Lamb, Vice President of Economic Development at 1Berkshire, will share insights on the organization’s positive impact on the regional economy and its role in supporting the growth and success of local small businesses. Dr. Lamb will also address questions on a wide range of topics relevant to small businesses in Berkshire County.

Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Massachusetts SBDC Berkshire Region at 413-545-0932

Traveling Resource Tour

Join Nancy Lowd, Massachusetts SBDC Senior Business Advisor, for Morning Coffee & Networking sponsored by NeighborWorks Housing Solutions. You will have the opportunity to meet representatives from SEED Corporation, SCORE, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, along with members of the Taunton Area Chamber of Commerce, and local economic development directors.

Whether launching a business, growing an existing one, or enjoying meeting other business owners, this is where you can meet and learn about the newest business programs and support. Coffee and pastries will be provided. Bring your business cards and meet some great people, it’s going to be a busy morning. Registration is appreciated.

Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
Time: 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET
Location: NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, 12 Taunton Green, Back Entrance - 2nd Floor, Taunton
Cost: No charge   
Contact: Tricia White at pwhite@nhsmass.org

Cosponsored by the Taunton Area Chamber of Commerce, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, SEED Corporation, SCORE, NeighborWorks, and local economic development directors

How to Start a Business

Are you looking to start a business but don’t know where to begin? This workshop will guide you through the essential steps of launching your business. We will cover key business fundamentals, from start-up considerations and business structure options to creating a strong business plan. Participants will also learn how to identify effective marketing strategies and explore potential funding sources to support their goals.

Whether you’re just beginning to brainstorm or ready to take the next step, this session will provide the tools and confidence to move your business idea forward!

Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Kaitlin Muldoon at kmuldoon@salemstate.edu or 978-542-7369

Understanding Cash Flow and How It Affects Your Business

Many a new business owner has asked, "What is cash flow and why is it so important?" The short answer is cash flow is the amount of money coming in to a business and the amount of money going out. Think of it as a water tank — water comes in at the top and drains out the bottom. So to keep your tank nice and full, you want more coming in than going out. Your business runs on cash — cash in and cash out — a very critical aspect to you and your business.

This webinar will help you understand what cash flow is, why it's so important, and how to monitor. Whether you hire someone to handle your financials or do them yourself, you must understand these fundamentals.  

This workshop will teach:

  • The basics of cash flow
  • The timing of cash inflows and outflows
  • How to manage your cash flow projections
  • How cash flow is different from profit
  • How to improve your company's cash flow

The speakers will be Alison Walsh and Matthew Ogrodowicz, Certified Public Accountants with Boisselle, Morton & Wolkowicz, LLP.

Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Time: 9:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Paula Pawloski at the Massachusetts SBDC at ppawlosk@umass.edu

Country of Origin as a Tariff Mitigation Strategy in the Current Trade Environment

While country of origin determination has always been a crucial element of supply chain management, it has become even more critical in the current trade environment. The analysis of the relative value of components based on detailed Bill of Materials (BOM) is insufficient for origin determination in most cases. With FTAs in flux and new rules announced weekly, it’s not clear which trade agreements may still be used to determine origin. While USMCA origin determination remains an important tool for companies trading with Canada and Mexico, rules differ for other trade agreements and are even less defined for products of the countries that do not have FTAs with the US.

Historically, substantial transformation and essential character have been two guiding principles for origin determination. However, the interpretation of substantial transformation has evolved, and the US Customs has been moving away from determining product origin based on the origin of the essential component. This webinar will discuss general principles of origin determination and their current interpretation by the US Customs, review trade agreements that are still applicable for origin determination and outline country of origin management strategies that can help businesses navigate the current trade environment.

Our speaker will be Matthew Bock, managing partner with Bock Trade Law.

Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Time: 12:00 – 1:15 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: $25 / no charge for Compliance Alliance members
Contact: Massachusetts Export Center at training@massexport.org

AI and Export Compliance: Going Beyond the Consolidated Screening List

For U.S. exporters, establishing screening procedures is critical to ensure compliance with U.S. export regulations and protect against the export of sensitive goods and technologies to restricted end users and uses. But screening goes well beyond simply checking the Consolidated Screening List. With stepped up enforcement on U.S. exports, businesses are under increased pressure to dig deeper - vetting customers, ownership structures and supply chain partners. The challenge is that much of the information needed for due diligence isn’t always readily available, and in some cases, is deliberately obscured.

This webinar will provide practical information for meeting the rising enforcement expectations. Our speakers will discuss export screening requirements and best practices, evaluating ownership structures, and using sources beyond the CSL to clear red flags. Participants will also learn how artificial intelligence can streamline KYC investigations and make them more effective. We hope you will join us!

Our speakers include:

  • Thariq Kara, CEO/Co-founder — BITE Data
  • Anne Riitho, Chief Data Officer/Co-founder — BITE Data  

Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: $25 / no charge for Compliance Alliance members
Contact: Massachusetts Export Center at training@massexport.org

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for Beginners

You’ve likely heard this acronym many times, but what does it mean for your small business? This webinar will provide an overview of SEO fundamentals including: how search engines work; the importance of keyword research; on- and off-page optimizations; and how to use metrics to measure performance.

The speaker will be Rosa DiVirgilio Taormina, senior business advisor and Certified Digital Marketing Professional with the Massachusetts SBDC - Northeast Region.

Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Kaitlin Muldoon at kmuldoon@salemstate.edu or 978-542-7369

Compliance Clinic for Compliance Alliance members only**

Calling all Compliance Alliance members! Join us for an off-the-record, give-and-take discussion between exporters that will allow participants to ask questions, share information and “compare notes” on trade compliance issues of interest and concern. All topics are on the table! No agenda, no talking points – just a private, interactive discussion between trade compliance professionals. Bring your questions and concerns and be prepared to join in the discussion! We have also invited a "Resident Expert" to be on hand in case of questions requiring legal expertise.

The Resident Expert for this Compliance Clinic will be fellow Compliance Alliance member, Ashley Roberts, counsel with the law firm of Hogan Lovells. 

Date: Friday, October 24, 2025
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge for Compliance Alliance members (membership benefit for Compliance Alliance members)
Contact: Massachusetts Export Center at training@massexport.org

**Not a member yet? Join during our fall promotion for 50% off regular membership pricing (promo expires 9/30/25). Click here for details!

Google Analytics Made Simple: Unlock the Key Insights for Your Business

Struggling to make sense of Google Analytics 4 (GA4)?

Join us for an engaging session designed specifically for small business owners! Learn how to track key metrics, interpret data, and use GA4 insights to grow your business. Whether you are new to GA4 or looking to optimize your setup, this presentation will give you practical, easy-to-implement strategies to help you make smarter, data-driven decisions.

What you will learn:

  • Key GA4 metrics and what they mean for your business
  • How to track customer behavior and improve conversions
  • Simple ways to customize GA4 for better insights

This workshop is perfect for small business owners, marketers, and entrepreneurs looking to maximize their website and marketing performance.

The speaker will be Rosa DiVirgilio Taormina, senior business advisor and Certified Digital Marketing Professional with the Massachusetts SBDC - Northeast Region.

Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Kaitlin Muldoon at kmuldoon@salemstate.edu or 978-542-7369

Traveling Resource Tour

Join Nancy Lowd, Massachusetts SBDC Senior Business Advisor, for Morning Coffee & Networking sponsored by NeighborWorks Housing Solutions. You will have the opportunity to meet representatives from SEED Corporation, SCORE, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, along with members of the Metro South Chamber of Commerce, and local economic development directors.

Whether launching a business, growing an existing one, or enjoying meeting other business owners, this is where you can meet and learn about the newest business programs and support. Coffee and pastries will be provided. Bring your business cards and meet some great people, it’s going to be a busy morning. Registration is appreciated.

Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025
Time: 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET
Location: Metro South Chamber, 60 School Street, 1st Floor Conference Room, Brockton
Cost: No charge   
Contact: Tricia White at pwhite@nhsmass.org

Cosponsored by the Metro South Chamber of Commerce, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, SEED Corporation, SCORE, NeighborWorks, and local economic development directors

First Employee Essentials: An Overview for Small Business Hiring

Hiring your first employee is a significant milestone for any small business, but it has many responsibilities and considerations. This workshop is designed to equip small business owners with the basic knowledge and tools to navigate the hiring process from start to finish successfully. By the end of this workshop, you'll be equipped to confidently hire and manage your first employee, ensuring that your small business is compliant, financially prepared, and positioned for growth.

The speaker will be Nancy Gerardi, regional director with the Massachusetts SBDC - Northeast Region.

Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Kaitlin Muldoon at kmuldoon@salemstate.edu or 978-542-7369

astering Tariff Management: The Essential Tools

Tariff management has become a top priority for international logistics and compliance professionals, demanding increased time commitment and significant expertise. Mastering tariff management tools is essential for both exporters and importers as supply chains are being restructured and realigned in the current trade environment.  

This webinar will zero in on essential tools for tariff management, including leveraging the provisions of Chapter 98 of HTS that allow for tariff mitigation under specific circumstances; using duty drawback to reclaim up to 99% of the duties paid on imported goods that are subsequently exported; and re-assessing customs valuation practices to ensure that the correct valuation methods are used, along with taking advantage of all available deductions and exclusions. Don’t miss this informative program – and bring your questions!   

Our speaker will be Robert Stein, vice president of Braumiller Consulting Group.

Date: Friday, November 7, 2025 
Time: 12:00 – 1:15 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: $25 / no charge for Compliance Alliance members
Contact: Massachusetts Export Center at training@massexport.org

Exploring the Government Marketplace

CWEAre you a seasoned small business owner with at least one or more years in business looking to expand into new markets? Selling to the government (municipal, state, federal) may be a strategic next step. Join us for this informative webinar led by the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center's Government Sales Advisory Program.

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the government marketplace and address what it means to be "procurement ready".  In this webinar, you will learn:

  • Key indicators that signal when your business is ready to enter the state/municipal markets and when you are ready to enter the federal market (they may be different)
  • Practical tips to prepare for success in the government marketplace
  • How the state(s) & federal government buys goods & services
  • How to position your business to be noticed and competitive in this space

We will briefly touch on federal small business goals and the categories, as listed below, federal certifications, and potential benefits for small businesses participating in these certification programs:

  • Small Business
  • Small Disadvantaged Business
  • Women-Owned & Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB)
  • 8(a) Business Development Program - a 9 year certification
  • HUBZone Program
  • Veteran-Owned & Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business 

Whether you are just beginning to explore this specialty market or looking to strengthen your position, this webinar will provide valuable insights to help you prepare to succeed in the government marketplace.

The speaker will be Sandra Ledbetter, government sales advisor with the Massachusetts SBDC.

Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: CWE at info.regional@cweonline.org

Cosponsored by the Center for Women & Enterprise

Cybersecurity Basics: Protecting Yourself and Your Business

In today’s digital world, protecting sensitive information is more important than ever.

This webinar will introduce the fundamentals of cybersecurity, including how to recognize common threats, safeguard your data, and adopt best practices to reduce risk. Whether you are a small business owner or simply looking to strengthen your personal online safety, this session will give you practical tools to stay secure.

The speaker will be Nancy Gerardi, regional director with the Massachusetts SBDC - Northeast Region.

Date: Tuesday, November 19, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Kaitlin Muldoon at kmuldoon@salemstate.edu or 978-542-7369

Traveling Resource Tour

Join Nancy Lowd, Massachusetts SBDC Senior Business Advisor, for Morning Coffee & Networking sponsored by NeighborWorks Housing Solutions. You will have the opportunity to meet representatives from SEED Corporation, SCORE, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, along with members of the Quincy Chamber of Commerce, and local economic development directors.

Whether launching a business, growing an existing one, or enjoying meeting other business owners, this is where you can meet and learn about the newest business programs and support. Coffee and pastries will be provided. Bring your business cards and meet some great people, it’s going to be a busy morning. Registration is appreciated.

Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Time: 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET
Location: Quincy Chamber of Commerce, 1400 Hancock Street, 9th Floor, Quincy
Cost: No charge   
Contact: Tricia White at pwhite@nhsmass.org

Cosponsored by the Quincy Chamber of Commerce, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, SEED Corporation, SCORE, NeighborWorks, and local economic development directors

Finding Government Contracting Opportunities

CWEYour business is at a place where you are stable and looking for opportunities to grow through government contracting. Now what? In this session we will walk through:

  • How to find government solicitations available to bid on.
  • Trainings that are available through a multitude of resources, to further assist you with getting ready bid, including: the Commonwealth, SBA and more.
  • Review some of the registrations and documents the government may want you to have.

The speaker will be Sandra Ledbetter, government sales advisor with the Massachusetts SBDC.

Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: CWE at info.regional@cweonline.org

Cosponsored by the Center for Women & Enterprise

Developing an Effective Government Focused Capability Statement

CWEJoin us for an informative webinar designed to help you create a targeted capability statement (CS) that gets the attention of federal agencies and prime contractors (large businesses with negotiated subcontracting goals) and positions your business to be noticed. Whether you are new to the government marketplace or looking to sharpen your outreach materials, this session will give you the tools you need to stand out.  

We will walk through how to craft a capability statement specifically tailored to federal buyers and prime contractors - what to include, what to avoid, and how to present your strengths in a way that aligns with government expectations. You will see real-life examples and learn tips, tricks, and best practices to help you build a  clear, concise, and compelling CS that may help you build key relationships and land opportunities to bid.   

Don't miss this opportunity to  develop a dynamic capability statement that supports your future success in the government marketplace.

The speaker will be Sandra Ledbetter, government sales advisor with the Massachusetts SBDC.

Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Time: 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: CWE at info.regional@cweonline.org

Cosponsored by the Center for Women & Enterprise

 

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 regulations.

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.