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Small Business Event Calendar

Events held by local small business partners

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

  • Jul
    8
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-08 00:00:00 2025-07-29 23:59:59 Partner Event: Taking the Leap for Military Entrepreneurs Hosted by SBTDCApply Now for the SBTDC’s Taking the Leap for Military Entrepreneurs to Kickstart Your Business VentureEmbarking on a business journey without proper guidance can feel overwhelming. Why take the leap without the essential tools for success? These military cohorts—designed for active, reserve, spouse, or veterans—offer an opportunity for high-potential startups and founders to network with fellow military-connected entrepreneurs, as well as members of the North Carolina Veterans Business Association. Through interactive learning, participants will receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors and guest mentors, with a focus on how to leverage the skills and benefits of your military status. One of the biggest barriers military entrepreneurs face is access to funding. We provide information and introductions. Participants can anticipate acquiring the following: Business Plan Templates / Outlines / GuidesFinancial Projection TemplatesIntellectual Property GuideDigital Marketing StrategiesMarket and Industry InsightsCustomer Discovery TechniquesStartup ChecklistOur program requires an application for admission. Seats are limited, so apply now to secure your spot and kickstart your entrepreneurial journey! City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Jul
    16

    Partner Event: Go Global Road Show

    Jul 16–25 • Wednesday–Friday
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-16 00:00:00 2025-07-25 23:59:59 Partner Event: Go Global Road Show Hosted by EDPNCYour passport to global sales starts with export knowledge from the experts.The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina’s (EDPNC) International Trade team maintains three overseas offices that help companies like yours prosper in North Carolina by growing revenue through exporting. Once a year, this team of experts goes on the road to bring their expertise directly to you! You’ll have the opportunity to meet and work with our Foreign Trade Representatives (up to 2 markets) and learn about opportunities in global markets including Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Whether your company is currently exporting, export-ready, or you are interested in learning more about developing international marketing, the Go Global Road Show is an excellent opportunity for North Carolina companies to develop new foreign markets that can increase exports and profits. Our Foreign Trade Representatives and International Trade Mangers will: Conduct one-on-one consultations with export-ready companies.Show country specific presentations on targeted foreign markets.Provide introductions and networking opportunities.Representatives from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC), EXIM Bank and US Commercial Service will also be available at each location. Each day of this event will include: Individual one-on-one meetings with EDPNC’s Foreign Office Directors.A lunch program that includes presentations on foreign markets and networking opportunities.Whether you are interested in scheduling one-on-one meetings with EDPNC’s Foreign Offices or just wanting to attend the networking luncheon, you must submit the Expression of Interest form. After our review, you will be contacted to schedule meetings and/or register for the luncheon. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Jul
    16
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-16 10:00:00 2025-07-16 11:30:00 Partner Event: Mastering Global Expansion | New International Partners Hosted by EDPNCEstablishing strong international partnerships starts with clear expectations and well-structured agreements. Without a solid foundation, misalignment can lead to operational challenges, lost opportunities, and strained relationships. The EDPNC continues its six-part webinar series with a deep dive into best practices for setting expectations and crafting agreements that drive long-term success. Join us to learn how to build productive and profitable global partnerships. Join Zach Selch, international sales expert, mentor, and author, for a 90-minute strategy session on July 16th from 10:00 – 11:30 AM. With decades of hands-on experience leading international sales efforts, Zach will guide you through the critical steps of establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and agreements that set your global partners up for success. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Jul
    16

    Partner Event: SizeUp Open House

    2 p.m. • Wednesday
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-16 14:00:00 2025-07-16 15:00:00 Partner Event: SizeUp Open House Hosted by SizeUpWant to learn how to grow your business using the SizeUp program in your community? You're invited to join our FREE, expert-led webinar designed specifically for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. In this live, interactive session, you’ll get: • Hands-on training from the SizeUp team • Personalized support tailored to your business needs • Real-life examples how to use data to succeed • Actionable insights you can use to make smarter decisions and grow faster. Whether you're planning to open or are already running a business, this session will give you the SizeUp tools and guidance you need — all at no cost. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot! City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Jul
    16
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-16 18:00:00 2025-07-16 20:00:00 Partner Event: ​LGBTQ+ Business Networking Event Hosted by Harmony LGBT+ Chamber of CommerceJoin us for our monthly networking event to connect with fellow LGBTQ+ professionals in the Triangle area. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Jul
    16
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-16 18:00:00 2025-07-16 19:30:00 Partner Event: 8(a) Certification Hosted by Small Business AdministrationJoin us as we focus on the unique and valuable business assistance offered by the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development program. This robust nine-year program is designed to help program participant to ensure equitable access to contracting opportunities in the federal government. This presentation focuses on the processes and benefits provided by the 8(a) program and how this program can be maximized as a dynamic tool to pursue and capture new contract opportunities from the federal government. 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
  • Jul
    17
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-17 17:30:00 2025-07-17 19:00:00 Partner Event: Cómo hacer negocios con el estado de Carolina del Norte Hosted by Prospera Descubra cómo posicionar su negocio para competir y asegurar contratos con entidades públicas y privadas en el estado de Carolina del Norte. Temas a tratar:• Certificaciones clave• Procesos de licitación• Estrategias para administrar contratos de forma efectiva City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Jul
    17
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-17 18:00:00 2025-07-17 20:00:00 Partner Event: Starting Your Small Business in North Carolina Hosted by Small Business AdministrationNavigating the requirements for starting a business in North Carolina can be confusing and sometimes the information friends and websites offer isn’t completely accurate. We’ll discuss the state, local, and federal requirements for doing business in our state and where to find resources our state offers to help you succeed. I have an EIN, what now? What’s the difference between a DBA, Sole Proprietorship, LLC, Corporation, and an S-Corp? How much will this cost? How long does it take? Where do I go to register? How do I get a license? Can I do this from home? Do I need a State Tax Number? Speaker: Sharon Walker is a Sr. Small Business Advisor with the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. She is a business consultant with experience in customer service, technical support, and project management. Prior to coming to EDPNC, she has worked with government agencies, NC Department of Health & Human Services and NC Department of Revenue, and with large corporations, Kodak and WorldCom. 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
  • Jul
    21
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-21 16:30:00 2025-07-21 18:30:00 Partner Event: ​Business After Hours Hosted by Greater Raleigh Chamber of CommerceThis event is open to Greater Raleigh Chamber and Young Professionals Network members only. Meet New Connections and Network at Business After Hours The premier networking event for local professionals, Business After Hours offers hosts the chance to bring potential customers and vendors on site for a first-hand look at their company. Attendees make new business connections in an informal atmosphere. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet other Chamber members while you learn more about a local business. RSVP by July 14. City of Raleigh America/New_York public
  • Jul
    22
    Add to Calendar 2025-07-22 10:00:00 2025-07-22 12:00:00 Partner Event: Essential Cybersecurity Training: Protecting Your Business Hosted by Wake Tech Community College Small Business CenterThe Carolina Cyber Center and Wake Tech students will provide small business owners and entrepreneurs an introduction to the basic of cybersecurity for laypeople and provide tips and ideas that will help protect your business. After the one-hour presentation, there is an opportunity for individual businesses to have a FREE, no-obligation rapid-fire cyber risk assessment.  Speaker(s):Co-Sponsor(s):  Carolina Cyber NetworkFee: No Cost Wake Technical Community CollegeRTP CampusAuditorium, Building 110908 Chapel Hill RoadMorrisville, North Carolina 27560 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:
Housing and Community Development
Service Categories:
Small Business