WASHINGTON - Women who own small businesses will be able to use a new online U.S. Small Business Administration training course to learn how to identify and take advantage of federal contracting opportunities. The new training course, Winning Federal Contracts: A Guide for Women Entrepreneurs, is part of an ongoing government-wide initiative to promote opportunities for women-owned businesses in the area of government contracting. (more)

High-Tech Entrepreneur to Open Orlando Chamber Event on November 19, 2009 October 6, 2009 CAPE CANAVERAL- Founder and CEO of Craig Technologies, Carol Craig, will be joining other leading entrepreneurs for The B.I.G. (Business Innovation & Growth) Summit sponsored by the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce being held at the newly opened Hilton Orlando on November 19th. (more)

September loan volume highest since August 2007 WASHINGTON – Changes under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to U.S. Small Business Administration loan programs led to a rebound in SBA- backed loans for small businesses and greater access to much-needed capital. (more)

Each class is taught by an experienced professional. We have instructors from federal and state agencies such as the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Some are CPAs, MBAs, and Ph.Ds. Each instructor is enthusiastic and well versed in the subject they teach.

Enhance your basic and advanced computer skills. We have excellent computer labs for your use during the class. Learn by doing with hands-on classes. The instructor will demonstrate using a large projector screen while you follow along and try for your self. Feel free to experiment and ask questions. We promote a friendly and open atmosphere. Be sure to check our Course Schedule to register for these courses.

Gain insight into strategic marketing. The WBC offers training in innovative techniques such as blogging and marketing yourself on a limited or non-existing budget.

Learn to do business with the federal government. The United States government is the top purchaser of goods and services. Take some of our government contracting classes to learn how to open this huge potential market for your business. Be sure to check our Course Schedule to register for these courses. You can also find some free online video tutorials in our Online Courses section.

Learn how to manage personal and business finances. We offer comprehensive classes on using Quickbooks, Microsoft Excel and other excellent software. We also have instructors from the IRS and other agencies to help in your business finance needs.

Learn how to start your own business. We offer classes on many topics from the basics to more advanced areas. Meet with local entrepreneurs, like yourself, who have been successful in industries such as insurance, financials, day care, home care, technology and much much more. Be sure to check out our Networking options.

Do you need help starting your own business? Do you have questions and you don't know who to ask? Meet one-on-one with experienced professionals to start or grow your business. Since we are funded by the Small Business Administration (SBA), all of this can be done for free.

Get assistance on business planning. Having a thorough business plan is important because it not only is a requirement of investors and lenders but it also provides you with a roadmap to business success. A business plan often allows business owners to see things from a new perspective as well as to face and mitigate risks not thought of before. It is also a great guidepost for your employees as to the goals and objectives of your business.

Get to know your competition. What makes you unique from them? What sets you apart? The WBC has staff and volunteers on hand who can assist you in examining this critical piece of your business.

Manage your cash flow (figure out revenue and expenses). From the gaining the necessary mathematical skills to the technological skills of Microsoft Excel or Intuit QuickBooks, the WBC has the training you need. Be sure to check our Course Schedule to register for these courses.

Find community resources. Through its vast network of partners, the WBC can put you in touch with the resources you need within the community.

Find a business start-up that maximizes your strengths. Our one-on-one counseling sessions provide you with the objective insight to choose the best business to suit you.

Positioning Your Business for Success
Expo and Conference (March 2008)

Networking at the WBC is comprised of special interest groups sharing experiences, good practices, and lessons learned. These groups bring together individuals and small businesses with mutual interests. Be sure to check the Networking Schedule to learn about and register for upcomming events.

Networking for Women provides a network of support for women and women-owned small businesses. The goal of the network is to guide and support women in building relationships, growing their businesses, and advancing their careers. Networking for Women is proudly sponsored by the Women's Business Center, the National Center for Small Business Information at Florida Institute of Technology and the Florida Small Business Development Center at Brevard Community College. Be sure to visit our Networking for Women section for more information.

Special conferences are held periodically throughout the year. These conferences focus on a variety of topics whether it be marketing, networking, balancing work and family, or exporting, the WBC strives to provide excellence in the business conferences and expos that it hosts.