Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network
Western Regional Office

 

Training Seminars & Events

 

The Western Region offers a full calendar of business training. All training is currently offered at no charge. This calendar is subject to change. Pre-registration is required for all events. Please view our cancellation policy. For information on other Massachusetts SBDC training offered throughout the state, visit the Massachusetts SBDC's statewide training calendar at www.msbdc.org.


We would like to thank the following agencies for cosponsoring our training events.
 

Platinum Sponsors:
Country Bank  Florence Bank    PeoplesBank      Westfield Bank
 

Gold Sponsor:
Greenfield Savings Bank

Silver Sponsors:
Freedom Credit Union | Granite State Development CorporationGreenfield Northampton Cooperative Bank | Holyoke Credit UnionMonson Savings Bank

  


2025 Training Calendar
 Unless otherwise noted, training is offered online.
  
Jan 16 Understanding Business Financials: Balance Sheets, Income and Profit/Loss Statements
Jan 23 Small Business Lending: Are you Really Ready for a Loan?
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

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.

Some of the topics 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 - 11:30 a.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Paula Pawloski at the Massachusetts SBDC at ppawlosk@umass.edu

 

Understanding Business Financials: Balance Sheets, Income and Profit/Loss Statements

Financial statements are essential for understanding the financial foundation of your business. They serve as indicators of both current success and future potential. Additionally, they highlight areas where you may have been overly cautious or indulgent in your past spending.

In this webinar, you will learn how to read and understand your balance sheets, income statements, and profit/loss statements.

The speaker will be Matthew Ogrodowicz, CPA with Boisselle, Morton & Wolkowicz, LLP. Matthew is well-versed in the challenges faced by small business clients.

Date: Thursday, January 16, 2025
Time: 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. ET
Location:
Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Paula Pawloski at the Massachusetts SBDC at ppawlosk@umass.edu

Small Business Lending: Are you Really Ready for a Loan?

Searching for ways to fund your start-up business? Are you a current business owner in need of working capital or new equipment? Not quite sure how to approach the bank for help? Please join us at this workshop presented by Tom Cebula of Westfield Bank, as he addresses these questions and much more.

Tom will lead an interactive and personalized workshop to help you prepare for the loan application process. As he tailors this workshop to your business, you will learn how preparation can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and successful credit experience.

You will discover the importance of good credit and a strong business plan. Westfield Bank is proud to offer this workshop through the Massachusetts SBDC as both organizations share a strong commitment to the growth of small businesses in the region.

Topics to be discussed:

  • Five areas of credit that are considered
  • Financial reporting
  • Traditional loan types
  • Nonconventional loans

The speaker will be Tom Cebula, Senior Vice President, Commercial Lending with Westfield Bank.

Date: Thursday, January 23, 2025
Time: 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. ET
Location: Online
Cost: No charge
Contact: Paula Pawloski at the Massachusetts SBDC at ppawlosk@umass.edu

Cosponsored by Westfield Bank

 
Anita

Cancellation/Materials Policy:

The Massachusetts SBDC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule a training session. Seminar materials are for attendees only.