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12/11/2025 8:36 am

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Small Business Event Calendar

Events held by local small business partners

Updated: Dec 11, 2025

The City of Raleigh enjoys an ecosystem of support organizations that focus on the success of small business owners. This calendar highlights small business-related events offered by these partners in the City of Raleigh. Event types include:

  • Training & resources
  • Public affairs, annual meetings & expos
  • Grant & funding application dates
  • Vendor or foot traffic opportunities
  • Networking events

  • Mar
    11

    Partner Event: Foundational Infrastructure for GovCon

    10 a.m. • Wednesday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-11 10:00:00 2026-03-11 11:30:00 Partner Event: Foundational Infrastructure for GovCon Hosted by Wake TechThe U.S. Federal Government is the world’s largest customer - and small businesses are a critical part of its supply chain. But breaking into federal contracting can feel overwhelming without a roadmap. The Government Contracting Foundations Series is designed for small businesses that are curious about federal work but don’t know where to start. With these monthly webinars, you’ll learn the basics step by step: how the government buys, how to register, what certifications mean, how to define your company’s capabilities, and what infrastructure you need in place to compete. Whether you’re a one-person shop or a growing business, this series gives you practical, no-nonsense guidance to help you decide if federal contracting is right for you and how to get started the right way. Note: These sessions are focused on federal contracting - how to do business with U.S. federal agencies. While some concepts may apply broadly, this series is not designed for companies pursuing state or local government contracts. Wed, Apr 8, 2026 10:00 to 11:30 AM ET Foundations Session 8: Human Factors in GovCon Session 7 – Foundational Infrastructure for Government Contractors Build the backbone of your business before chasing contracts. Government contracting requires more than a SAM registration. We’ll walk through the core business functions you need - from accounting and timekeeping systems to HR, IT, contracts/legal, and compliance (SPRS, CMMC). You’ll learn what’s essential at the start and what can scale as you grow. Reena Bhatia of the NC Military Business Center at Wake Tech will provide a basic overview of essential topics. This webinar will be presented via Microsoft Teams platform. If you've never used Teams it will ask you to download onto your computer. We ask that you go ahead and complete this step, utilizing the same First Name, Last Name and Email address used during registration. Once you do this it will allow you access to the webinar. We recommend that you sign in to the webinar at least five minutes prior to the start of the session to ensure you don't have any technical issues. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    11

    Partner Event: Cómo Preparar tu Pequeño Negocio para la Temporada de Impuestos

    6:30 p.m. • Wednesday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-11 18:30:00 2026-03-11 19:30:00 Partner Event: Cómo Preparar tu Pequeño Negocio para la Temporada de Impuestos Hosted by Wake TechCómo Preparar tu Pequeño Negocio para la Temporada de Impuestos Este taller presencial de una hora está dirigido a dueños de pequeños negocios que desean comprender los aspectos básicos de la preparación de impuestos, especialmente aquellos que trabajan con subcontratistas y realizan pagos 1099. Los participantes aprenderán a organizar sus finanzas, diferenciar gastos deducibles y no deducibles, conocer los formularios del IRS según su tipo de negocio y las fechas clave para cumplir con sus obligaciones fiscales. Preparing Your Small Business for Tax Season This one-hour, in-person workshop is designed to help small business owners understand the basics of tax preparation, particularly those who work with independent contractors and issue 1099 payments. Participants will learn how to organize business finances, distinguish between deductible and non-deductible expenses, identify required IRS forms based on business structure, and understand key tax deadlines. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    12

    Partner Event: What Entrepreneurs Need to Know about the SBA Webinar

    6 p.m. • Thursday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-12 18:00:00 2026-03-12 19:30:00 Partner Event: What Entrepreneurs Need to Know about the SBA Webinar Hosted by Veterans Business Outreach CenterJoin us as we embark on an informative journey into the heart of the U.S. Small Business Administration with our in-depth exploration of the SBA and its impact on entrepreneurs.  The SBA maintains a vital role as a resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners. This presentation will not only offer motivational successes of SBA contributions in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, it will pave the way to your understanding of everything SBA! Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact Sarah Espinosa at 910-672-2683 or sespinos@uncfsu.edu. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    12

    Partner Event: Marketing for Makers: Building a Consistent Social Media Strategy

    6 p.m. • Thursday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-12 18:00:00 2026-03-12 20:00:00 Partner Event: Marketing for Makers: Building a Consistent Social Media Strategy Hosted by Triangle ArtWorksAre you an artist who is tired of posting without a plan?  Learn how to build a clear, consistent social media strategy that supports your goals.  Join Lysandra Weber in this workshop and learn how to use social media as a tool to support and amplify your art, rather than distract from it. You’ll discover how to craft a simple, sustainable strategy that works for your creative business.  You’ll explore how one idea can spark several different content pieces, how to build a consistent calendar that feels natural, and how to plan and batch posts without stress. You’ll also learn how to use scheduling tools that keep your content running smoothly to free up time so you can get back to creating. In this session, you'll learn how to: Build a simple, repeatable social media strategy tailored to your creative practice. Create a realistic posting calendar you can actually maintain. Confidently schedule content using recommended tools, tips, and tricks. Reduce time spent on social media while maintaining consistent visibility. Get organized, stay consistent, and grow your audience; all while keeping your focus on your art.  Register today! EARLY BIRD PRICING THROUGH FEB 12, $38 GENERAL PRICING THROUGH MAR 11, $48 DAY OF WORKSHOP PRICING $53 This virtual class meets on Thursday, March 12, 2025 from 6:00-8:00pm. The class meets on Zoom and you will receive login information following registration. You will receive a class handout via email prior to the class date.  THIS CLASS WILL BE RECORDED AND MADE AVAILABLE TO CLASS REGISTRANTS FOR LIMITED TIME FOLLOWING CLASS DATE. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    13

    Partner Event: SBA Manufacturing Initiative: Funding & Support Strategies

    9 a.m. • Friday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-13 09:00:00 2026-03-13 10:30:00 Partner Event: SBA Manufacturing Initiative: Funding & Support Strategies Hosted by Veterans Business Outreach CenterDiscover the SBA’s Made in America Manufacturing Initiative and opportunities for small businesses.  Discover the programs and services of the SBA to help you start, develop, and succeed in business. Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact Sarah Espinosa at 910-672-2683 or sespinos@uncfsu.edu. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    14

    Partner Event: Raleigh's 4th Annual Women's Day Expo

    11 a.m. • Saturday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-14 11:00:00 2026-03-14 16:00:00 Partner Event: Raleigh's 4th Annual Women's Day Expo Hosted by NC Vibes  Join us for the 4th Annual Women’s Day Expo, a dynamic one-day experience celebrating women entrepreneurs, leaders, creatives, and change-makers from across North Carolina and beyond. The Honorable Secretary of State, Elaine Marshall will be in attendance and the event is moderated by WTVD11 Reporter Elaina Athans. This inspiring event brings together local women-owned businesses, industry experts, and community leaders for a day of connection, learning, shopping, and empowerment. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, professional, student, or supporter of women-led businesses, this event is designed to uplift, educate, and inspire. ✨ What to Expect: Women-Owned Business Marketplace – Shop, support, and discover local brands Expert Speakers & Panel Discussions – Learn from industry leaders on business growth, leadership, wellness, and finance Networking Opportunities – Connect with entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders Educational Resources – Presented in collaboration with NC State Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC), Wake Tech Small Business Center, and the City of Raleigh Experiences, Meaningful Connection, Learning & Community Activations Shop and Support Local. This year’s Women’s Day Expo is designed to empower, educate, and elevate women at every stage of their journey—from aspiring founders to established business owners. 🎯 Who Should Attend: Women entrepreneurs & small business owners Aspiring founders and side-hustlers Professionals seeking growth and inspiration Supporters of women-owned and minority-owned businesses Community leaders and changemakers 📍 Location: McKimmon Center 1101 Gorman St. Raleigh NC 27606📅 Date: Sat. March 14th⏰ Time: 11:00-4:00 👉 Come connect, learn, and celebrate the power of women in business  City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    16

    Partner Event: Is Freight Brokerage Right For You

    6 p.m. • Monday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-16 18:00:00 2026-03-16 20:00:00 Partner Event: Is Freight Brokerage Right For You Hosted by Wake TechIs Freight Brokerage Right for You? Curious about freight brokerage but not sure where to start—or if it’s the right move for you? This live seminar offers a real-world look at the freight brokerage industry, designed for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to explore new income streams and business opportunities. Learn how freight brokerage works, what it truly takes to get started, and how technology, strategy, and relationships drive success in today’s logistics landscape. Walk away with clarity, practical insight, and the confidence to decide your next move—whether that’s getting started or gaining deeper industry knowledge. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    17

    Partner Event: ​Women's Leadership Conference 2026

    7:30 a.m. • Tuesday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-17 07:30:00 2026-03-17 14:00:00 Partner Event: ​Women's Leadership Conference 2026 Hosted by Greater Raleigh Chamber Amplify Your Influence at Women’s Leadership Conference 2026 Presented by PNC Join the movement shaping the future of leadership. With more than 1,000 executives, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders, Women’s Leadership Conference 2026 is the Triangle’s most impactful convening for women and allies committed to expanding their influence and driving meaningful change. This year’s theme, Amplify Your Influence, celebrates the powerful impact of women who are elevating leadership, driving innovation, and transforming industries across the country. Throughout the day, we will highlight the stories and strategies of leaders who have expanded their reach, accelerated progress, and created meaningful pathways for others to rise. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    18

    Partner Event: Legal Issues Around AI for Creatives

    12 p.m. • Wednesday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-18 12:00:00 2026-03-18 13:00:00 Partner Event: Legal Issues Around AI for Creatives Hosted by Triangle ArtWorks What does AI mean for the work of creatives? Join attorney Brandon J. Huffman for a discussion of the rapidly evolving impacts of generative AI and LLMs on the arts world. Topics will include laws around the use of AI and whether AI may infringe on the work of creatives. Brandon will discuss the issue and take general questions during the event. Whether you want to use AI in your own creative work, or you have worries about your work being used in generative AI, this discussion will help you to understand the risks and rewards.  City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Mar
    18

    Partner Event: Your Business, Your IP

    12 p.m. • Wednesday
    Add to Calendar 2026-03-18 12:00:00 2026-03-18 13:30:00 Partner Event: Your Business, Your IP Hosted by SBTDC Join attorneys John Flynn and Bert Andia for an informative 1.5-hour session covering the fundamentals of business law and intellectual property (IP) law. Designed for small business owners and entrepreneurs, this webinar will help you understand key legal concepts, protect your ideas, and make informed decisions as you start or grow your business. The presentation will conclude with a live Q&A session where participants can ask specific questions. City of Raleigh America/New_York public

Contact

 

Jocelyn Sanchez
Small Business and Workforce Development Analyst
jocelyn.sanchez@raleighnc.gov
984-220-2958

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Lead Department:
Economic and Social Advancement
Service Categories:
Small Business Development