Events/Workshops

Are you intimidated by numbers? If so, this two-part seminar is for you. Accounting for Entrepreneurs takes the mystery out of number crunching and puts it into easy-to-understand terms, in a playful environment. You will learn how to create income statements and balance sheets, track inventory, understand cash flow and liquidity, and apply this knowledge to real-life situations. Take the mundane tasks of accounting and business finance and make them something you can easily learn, understand, remember and use! Part II is Wednesday, September 29 from 9 am-1 pm.

Speaker: Jim Olp, Denver Metro SBDC As senior business consultant for the Denver Metro SBDC, Jim Olp assists clients with financial analysis and funding options. He has a depth of experience derived not just from his many years working with SBDCs, but also from his ownership of more than a dozen small businesses. He has taught virtually every aspect of small business management and operations at the college level for more than two decades. Olp has exceptional expertise in business financing options and can assist clients in structuring their business plans and pro forma projections toward the goal of securing financing. Jim earned his bachelor’s degree from King’s College with a double major in history and political science with a minor in English. He earned his master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh with a major in political science and a minor in computer science.

The FastTrac GrowthVenture Program is targeted specifically to entrepreneurs who have experience running their business. FastTrac focuses on the issues you need to: - Make critical decisions about your business vision and strategy - Iinvestigate next-stage growth and opportunity - Plan for strategic growth - Build and maintain a competitive advantage - Lead with clarity - Maximize cash flow for future profitability This intensive 10-week training business planning course is designed for entrepreneurs who wish to expand their current venture and take it to the next level. This course will help you ask the questions and get to know the answers that every entrepreneur needs to know before growing a business venture. FastTrac provides a practical, hands-on and commonsense approach to business management. In addition to regular classroom instruction, the course features: - Guest speakers, including accoutants, attorneys, and bankers - Networking opportunities with local business leaders and participants - A comprehensive textbook, workbook, and resource guide - Free business consulting from the Denver Metro SBDC - Interaction with business loan officers concerning your financial needs

Speaker: Jim Olp, Rosy McDonough

Attorney Theresa Pickner walks you through the nuts and bolts of starting your own business, including legal entity selection, taxes (sales, use, and payroll), liability protection, registering your trade name, and more. This workshop will help save time and stress by helping you determine which agencies to contact along with the forms you will need, and by providing the information necessary to make key decisions before completing your paperwork. Attendees will receive a packet containing reference materials and forms you will need to get your business started right away. Attendees may also arrange for a private consultation for up to an hour with Theresa Pickner at no extra charge.

Speaker: Theresa Pickner, Attorney at Law

In this overview seminar, you will learn the proper steps to take to launch your new business venture including legal structures, required licenses and forms, tax requirements, financing considerations and more. Bring all of your questions about launching your business and meet others who are doing the same.

Speaker: Jayne Reiter, Denver Metro SBDC Jayne Reiter is our business consultant at the West Metro Satellite SBDC. In her role as a business counselor, she guides SBDC clients through start-up issues, marketing, alternative financing and business plan development. Reiter has more than 20 years experience in sales and marketing. In her career, she has owned and operated her own retail and sales business. She is dedicated to helping small business owners achieve their goals in growth and expansion. Reiter holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in adult education.

Learn more about starting a small business in Colorado. This webinar will provide an overview of the steps needed to launch a business including: legal structures, required licenses and forms, tax requirements, business planning, and financial considerations. It is suggested that new businesses attend this course before pursuing individualized business counseling with the Northeast-East Central Colorado SBDC.

Speaker: Jesse Esparza, SBDC Business Counselor

Looking to jump start your business concept? This 2-day Boot Camp will help you quickly develop your business plan and determine the feasibility of launching your business. This workshop will consist of 12 hours of training and cover Entrepreneurial Essentials, Marketing, Organizational Issues, and Financial Overview. In addition, each participant will be required to schedule 3 hours of free, one-on-one counseling with an SBDC counselor. The goal of this Boot Camp is to allow participants to have business plan or feasibility study completed in 2 days. The course fee includes registration for two participants and one set of materials. An Additional set of materials are available for $40. This Boot Camp is for anyone thinking of starting a business. A needs based scholarship is available for Adams County Residents to subsidize most of the cost of this program. Call 303-460-1032 for more information.

This course will show you in great detail, exactly how to strategically manage your budget(s) in order to:1) Maximize your monthly cash flow and cash deposits, 2) Build powerful credit profiles and scores, and 3) Pay off all of your debts in about 25% of the time. Much of what you will learn is proprietary in nature, it is not taught anywhere else, and the results and benefits to both business owners and consumers can be quite staggering. If you are a start up business, thinking of starting a business, or even a well seasoned and successful business, this is a course that you cannot afford to miss! (Minimum class size is 6 and 20 maximum.)

Speaker: John Deckys

Join us for this informative seminar that covers all the basics of preparing a successful business plan. We will discuss the purpose of a business plan, what it contains, what financial documents you will need, and how to determine start-up costs. You will be given a copy of a sample business plan. You will also learn what not to include in the document. This is a seminar every business owner should take, especially if you are planning to secure outside financing.

Speaker: Jayne Reiter, Denver Metro SBDC Jayne Reiter is our business consultant at the West Metro Satellite SBDC. In her role as a business counselor, she guides SBDC clients through start-up issues, marketing, alternative financing and business plan development. Reiter has more than 20 years experience in sales and marketing. In her career, she has owned and operated her own retail and sales business. She is dedicated to helping small business owners achieve their goals in growth and expansion. Reiter holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in adult education.

This free workshop is designed to educate small business owners about how to avoid financial pitfalls that are common in leasing and finishing a space. We will discuss the basics about lease issues, construction issues and the typical landlord’s process. Topics include; condition and delivery of the space, construction allowance, rent commencement date, hiring an architect and general contractor, construction issues, obtaining the proper construction permits, landlord’s pre-construction meetings, notice of non-liability and contractor’s indemnity requirements. (Minimum class size is 6 and 20 maximum.)

Speaker: David Bragg, Grande River Construction

Human resource (HR) management is the utilization of individuals to achieve organizational goals and objectives. At every level of an organization, Human Resource Management plays an important role. This training class provides an overview of the core functions of HR Management such as recruitment, compensation, training, and performance management. Furthermore, it will help managers develop a framework for dealing with employee relations issues and resolving conflicts in the workplace. (Minimum class size is 6 and 20 maximum.) Instructors: TBD

Learn about legal structures, registration, licenses, market research, business planning, obtaining financing, insurance, taxes, employer responsibilities, and sources of assistance.

Speaker: Jesse Esparza, North Metro SBDC

An early morning two-hour workshop that covers business registration and forms, business entity-type selection and other timely tips every prospective entrepreneur needs before starting a new business venture.

Speaker: Tom Selken

This workshop will discuss the importance of By-laws/Operating Agreements, Buy/See Agreements, Articles of Incorporation/Organization, Subscription Agreements and Stock Certificates for multi-owner businesses.

Speaker: Kevin Houchin

Location, Location, Location! Site selection is one of the most important components of a successful business. This class will discuss how to analyze a business location, consider moving or changing how a space is used, and examine the building condition. We will also look at the benefits and disadvantages of using a Tenant Rep. (Minimum class size is 6 and 20 maximum.)

Speaker: Brian Veatch, KW Commercial

Through this workshop, learn the basics of business taxes, including forms of different business entities, business use of home and car, record keeping, Schedules C, SE, and ES Form 1040 and more.

Speaker: Fran Coet, CPA, CVA, & CFP Coet & Coet PC

In this overview seminar, you will learn the proper steps to take to launch your new business venture including legal structures, required licenses and forms, tax requirements, financing considerations and more. Bring all of your questions about launching your business and meet others who are doing the same.

Speaker: John Green, Johnson & Wales University John Green is an accomplished organizational, business and professional development mentor with a demonstrated ability for helping people identify, utilize and grow their talents, strengths and abilities. He has developed and cultivated personal and professional growth in hundreds of clients, business owners and professionals. He is an effective program designer, implementer and presenter, recognized for improving individual, workplace and entrepreneur performance. Greene has provided one-on-one counseling and workshop delivery to displaced professionals from technology, telecom, manufacturing, marketing and distribution environments. He has successfully transitioned these experiences and skill sets to a variety of programs including Career Continuation, Resume Creation, Interviewing Skills, Change Management, Best Hiring Practices, Successful Goal Planning, Business Planning and Implementation workshops, as well as personal development experiences. He is experienced in both the corporate and entrepreneurial sectors. He has been associated with major retailers, distributors and sales organizations at all levels of management in national and international arenas. He has been instrumental in successful business start-ups on and off the Internet, including sales, consulting and marketing ventures. In addition, he has extensive community and educational affiliations with organizations and universities nationwide.

The purpose of this workshop is to provide attendees with examples on how to implement geolocation into their small business. Geolocation utilized GPS technologies to augment the virtual and physical environment that the customer experiences. Participants will also become familiar with readily available tools that will allow them to explore geographical spaces, increase their location-awareness and tag their businesses for GPS enabled devices.

This information-packed workshop will give you a good understanding of what you need to consider in order to start a profitable business. Get your questions answered and learn all about starting a successful business, including some of the basic requirements needed to launch your business. Topics discussed will include: •Legal Structure •Registration Requirements •Necessary Recordkeeping •Marketing •Financing Your New Venture

Speaker: Caroline Hanna, South Metro Denver SBDC Business Consultant

This class is part of the Pathways to Success Start-up Series. The class will discuss entity types, selection criteria, along with license and sales tax information.

Speaker: Robin Shea, Loveland SBDC Director

This course will show you in great detail, exactly how to strategically manage your budget(s) in order to:1) Maximize your monthly cash flow and cash deposits, 2) Build powerful credit profiles and scores, and 3) Pay off all of your debts in about 25% of the time. Much of what you will learn is proprietary in nature, it is not taught anywhere else, and the results and benefits to both business owners and consumers can be quite staggering. If you are a start up business, thinking of starting a business, or even a well seasoned and successful business, this is a course that you cannot afford to miss! (Minimum class size is 6 and 20 maximum.)

Speaker: John Deckys

The NxLevel for Entrepreneurs course is a 12-session program that focuses on better business practices while producing a comprehensive business plan.

Speaker: Dr. Simon Walls

Learn the key elements of a successful business plan and why creating a business plan is an essential step for any entrepreneur or business owner. This course will guide you in creating your own individual business plan and provide you the tools to make it easy. Fee for the class includes a copy of the book, "Successful Business Plan Secrets & Strategies" by Rhonda Abrams.

Speaker: Robin Shea

Access a wealth of free industry data, market data, and business plan resources with a Business Information Specialist at the Boulder Public Library. While all are welcome to attend, our friends at the libary have designed this workshop with Boulder SBDC clients in mind. Save yourself countless hours by hearing about the variety of print and digital resources that the library provides - many of them accessible from your home or office. Once you have attended the workshop, you may schedule an individual appointment to receive specific recommendations for books, periodicals, and databases relevant to your business.

Speaker: Eladia Rivera and Terzah Becker, Business Information Specialists, Boulder Public Library

Join us for this informative seminar that covers the basics of preparing a successful business plan. Topics to be discussed include: •The purpose of a business plan •What information your plan should contain •The financial documents you will need •How to determine start-up costs •Market research and its importance •What lenders look for

Speaker: Chuck Hahn, SBDC Business Consultant

This class will answer important questions that many small business owners may have, such as: What insurance do you really need? What are the differences between group and individual policies? How do I compare different plans? These questions and many more will be covered in depth.

Speaker: Chris Davies, Choice Plus Ins; Kendall Payne, Payne Ins Agency

Do you own an existing business and need to write a business plan? Looking for a course that will walk you through everything that you need for your business plan? This 15-week intensive course will provide you with all the tools and resources you need to finish your business plan by the end of the course. The course fee includes registration for two participants and one course text. An additional course text may be purchased for $100. The NxLeveL Entrepreneurial Training program is an award winning business training course designed for entrepreneurs seeking knowledge and practical skill for starting, managing and growing their businesses. By combining education, counseling and networking, the NxLeveL Entrepreneurial Training Program helps entrepreneurs strategically plan their business’ NxLeveL of Success! This course is offered in two formats: face to face and online. Both start January 20, 2010 and meets until May 5, 2010. The face to face meeting meets every Wednesday. Participants in the online section will meet on 1/20/10 at 6pm for online orientation and to receive class text.

Speaker: Chris Luchs, Lead Instructor

This seminar will focus on introducing business owners and leaders to the world of insurance. Topics covered include: Life, Executive benefits, estate planning issues, workmen’s comp and rate development, policy pricing considerations, and discussing the audit process.

Speaker: Fran Armendariz, New York Life; and Terri Hauk, Hauk Agency

We will have an on-site lender to provide you with concrete facts about lender requirements, loan types, and loan application development. Please register on-line or call (970) 667-4106 prior to the event date. This event is for Larimer SBDC Clients.

Worried that your website may be opening you up to unknown liabilities? Have you heard about the FTC rules regarding online endorsements and wonder if your blog is what the rules were targeting? Are you curious if the person who added you to his email newsletter after a networking event without asking you violated the Can-Spam Act OR perhaps you adding that person to yours did? As the world of online marketing grows, more issues are being presented. Whether complaining about a company on Twitter can result in your name on a lawsuit or if online marketing is even allowed for certain professions, all businesses need to know the basics before starting a website. Please join attorney Elizabeth Lewis as she discusses the common contracts needed for a website, the FTC rules regarding online endorsements, and the basics of the CANSPAM Act.

Speaker: Elizabeth Lewis, ESQ

As an extension of the Renewable Energy Taskforce, Renewable Smart-Tools helps emerging companies start-up and build a solid foundation and infrastructure that will sustain them into the future through mentoring and a monthly educational meeting with area business leaders. This month's topic is "The Insurance Side of Business." Join us as Megan Beski of Van Gilder Insurance discusses how to determine what kind of insurance your business needs and how to properly go about insuring your business ideas!

Speaker: Megan Beski, Van Gilder Insurance

This Leading Edge course using the NxLeveL® curriculum, also referred to as the "Entrepreneur Course", is a 13-session course designed for entrepreneurs who want to start a new business or expand an existing business, and need the skills to make it grow. It's been proven that the entrepreneur who plans is the entrepreneur who succeeds. For this reason, participants develop a comprehensive business plan during the course to act as the road map for future growth. You do not have to be a current business owner to participate! This course will cover all elements in a business plan. Includes planning/research; management/legal structure; marketing analysis & understanding; books, records & controls; financing your business & the deal making process, and much more. The workshop will be held weekly, every Monday evening from September 13 thru December 6, 5:00 - 8:00 PM. Fees include books and materials, dinner during each session, and pre-paid parking passes.,This Leading Edge course using the NxLeveL® curriculum, also referred to as the "Entrepreneur Course", is a 13-session course designed for entrepreneurs who want to start a new business or expand an existing business, and need the skills to make it grow. It's been proven that the entrepreneur who plans is the entrepreneur who succeeds. For this reason, participants develop a comprehensive business plan during the course to act as the road map for future growth. You do not have to be a current business owner to participate! This course will cover all elements in a business plan. Includes planning/research; management/legal structure; marketing analysis & understanding; books, records & controls; financing your business & the deal making process, and much more. The workshop will be held weekly, every Monday evening from September 13 thru December 6, 5:00 - 8:00 PM. Fees include books and materials, dinner during each session, and pre-paid parking passes.

Speaker: Harry Martinez & Matt Barrett,Harry Martinez & Matt Barrett

The Colorado Leading Edge Presents: NxLeveL™ for Entrepreneurs, a 15-week, intensive business planning course designed for existing entrepreneurs seeking knowledge and practical skills for managing and/or growing their business. This class is aimed at helping business owners who have been operating for over 18 months. Participants graduate with a fully executed business plan! Topics covered include: •Planning & Research: Entrepreneurial Essentials •Organizational Matters: Management & Legal Structure •Marketing: Market Research, Analysis & Understanding •Advertising: Strategies, Tactics & Implementation •Financial Overview: Books, Records & Controls, Financial Planning •Managing Your Money: Developing and Using Cash Flow Projections, Budgets & Assumptions

Speaker: Elena Vasconez, South Metro SBDC Consultant & Certified NxLeveL Trainer

“Don’t Cry About Your Lease” Want to improve your commercial real estate situation? Come and learn from this panel of experts on the many ways in which you can improve your business by taking care of your leases! Featured Topics and Panelists: “Staying vs. Going"-Mark Grillo of Grillo Commercial Real Estate "The Art of Subleasing"- Dan Beer of Cushman & Wakefield "Leasing vs. Buying"-Frederic de Loizaga of CBRE No cost to attend- breakfast is included!

Speaker: Mark Grillo, Grillo Commercial Real Estate; Dan Beer, Cushman & Wakefield; Frederic de Loizaga, CBRE

Do you have conflict in your workplace? At home? With your boss or co-workers? Do you avoid conflict at all costs? Do you welcome challenges and confrontations? Everyone has conflict in their lives to one degree or another, and managing the conflict effectively is the key to successful work and family relationships. This two-hour session will address some causes of conflict, assess your primary styles of managing conflict, discuss real-life work and home conflict situations, and identify others’ management conflict styles that impact your interactions. Special attention will be paid to the communication messages expressed during conflict and how to alleviate conflict using more effective messages. Attend this highly informative and interactive session!

Speaker: Erica Nagel - Allgood Owner/consultant Enhanced Communication Erica L. Nagel Allgood is an owner/consultant of Enhanced Communication for over 18 years and an Assistant Professor of Communication at Regis University for over 14 years. She is pursuing her PhD in Education, specializing in Organizational Her areas of emphasis in facilitating, coaching and consulting for the past 18 years include leadership development, conflict management, change management, and team dynamics. Erica provides each of her clients with a full assessment, individual and group training and consulting, material development, and management reports to detail employee achievement. She co-authored a team training text, The Team Trainer: Winning Tools and Tactics for Successful Workouts. The text provides background in small group communication theory and concepts as well as various small group training activities.

Join us for a FREE workshop on "Achieving Wow." This engaging topic was presented in the July issue of New Business Denver. Learn how to build a memorable brand by creating a communications strategy that helps you build customer relationships that nurture loyalty and drive sales. This workshop takes small businesses through a ten-step process from defining objectives, building a plan, evaluating results, and showcasing tools available to make it easy to get started in implementing the plan. Co-author Sophia Farina, marketing director with Quark Inc. will be the featured speaker. Introduction of the topic will be made by Tameka Montgomery, executive director of the Denver Metro SBDC.

Speaker: Sophia Farina, Quark

The Colorado Leading Edge Presents: NxLeveL™ for Entrepreneurs, a 15-week, intensive business planning course designed for existing entrepreneurs seeking knowledge and practical skills for managing and/or growing their business. This class is aimed at helping business owners who have been operating for over 18 months. Participants graduate with a fully executed business plan! Topics covered include: •Planning & Research: Entrepreneurial Essentials •Organizational Matters: Management & Legal Structure •Marketing: Market Research, Analysis & Understanding •Advertising: Strategies, Tactics & Implementation •Financial Overview: Books, Records & Controls, Financial Planning •Managing Your Money: Developing and Using Cash Flow Projections, Budgets & Assumptions

Speaker: Elena Vasconez, South Metro SBDC Consultant & Certified NxLeveL Trainer

This session provides business owners with essential information regarding basic insurance coverage necessary for most small to medium sized businesses. Attendees will learn how to assess which coverage they must have, as well as eliminate coverage that is unnecessary or not cost effective. The materials include a description of ways owners can cut insurance costs, while maximizing protection. Attendees will leave: 1. Understanding the types of insurance coverage they must consider for their business; 2. Knowing the pitfalls of being underinsured; and 3. With confidence, knowing they won’t overspend on insurance while protecting the key pieces of their business. This session will also include an interactive discussion from a panel of insurance representatives from local insurance compay, Six & Geving. You can register by calling (719) 255-3844, or by clicking on the link below.

Speaker: Erin Kristofco, attorney

The Colorado Leading Edge Presents: NxLeveL™ for Entrepreneurs, a 15-week, intensive business planning course designed for existing entrepreneurs seeking knowledge and practical skills for managing and/or growing their business. This class is aimed at helping business owners who have been operating for over 18 months. Participants graduate with a fully executed business plan! Topics covered include: •Planning & Research: Entrepreneurial Essentials •Organizational Matters: Management & Legal Structure •Marketing: Market Research, Analysis & Understanding •Advertising: Strategies, Tactics & Implementation •Financial Overview: Books, Records & Controls, Financial Planning •Managing Your Money: Developing and Using Cash Flow Projections, Budgets & Assumptions

Speaker: Elena Vasconez, South Metro SBDC Consultant & Certified NxLeveL Trainer

This class will help you learn good record keeping habits to reduce your costs and create efficiency. While record keeping is required by the IRS, good record keeping will help you monitor the progress of your business.

Speaker: Carla Ostic, CPA & Jenny Buchanan of Hanna, Holdredge & Associates

"Hiring & Firing for the Small Business" Legal Lunch Series: Presented by Minor & Brown, PC Join us as Attorney Kara M. Craig from Minor & Brown, PC discusses the legal considerations of hiring new employees and the proper procedures for doing so. She'll also cover the other end of the spectrum: what to do when you need to let an employee go. Learn about the laws and regulations regarding firing employees, and what you need to do to ensure you are compliant with these laws. Topics to be discussed include: Interviewing •Off limit questions •Background checks •Employment Eligibility Verification Hiring •ADA; Discrimination laws •Evolving issues with regard to protected classes in Colorado Contracts for Employment •Protection of trade secrets •Non competition and Non-solicitation Agreements •Work for Hire Firing •Warn Act •CO law governing an employer’s obligations upon termination •Unemployment Insurance •EEOC process We hope you join us for an informative discussion and question-and-answer session while you enjoy a catered lunch.

Speaker: Kara M. Craig, Attorney, Minor & Brown, PC

Most of us draw mental pictures of our customers or prospects on the telephone, often establishing long-term working relationships without ever meeting face-to-face. When we finally do meet, we're usually surprised his or her image doesn't match the picture we painted of him or her. It seems we're quick to visualize the person on the other end of the telephone, never realizing he or she is visualizing us as well. This fun, interactive seminar will teach you how to demonstrate characteristics that create a positive, memorable image. Using the word PICTURE, you will learn how various characteristics enable us to create a self-portrait everyone will remember with pleasure and won't be surprised to see. Improve your telephone communication skills through self-examination. Implement techniques that create a positive, memorable image. Learn why you should communicate personal relationship values during every customer interaction.

Speaker: Jeannie Davis, Now Hear This Jeannie Davis is an authority on telephone communication for great customer service and has trained thousands of individuals to maximize the profit- and image-building power of their #1 business communication tool. An influential speaker and trainer, she is the award-willing author of Beyond Hello and contributing author in Real World Customer Service Strategies That Work. Davis' respected affiliation with Fortune 500 companies and international associations is testament that her keynotes and seminars are beneficial to diverse organizations and industries. Program participants recognize her genuine passion for encouraging people to make beneficial behavioral changes - and showing them how to do it. Davis is immediate past president of the International Customer Service Association's Colorado Chapter and services on the Board of Directors for the Denver/Boulder Better Business Bureau Foundation. An active member of the National Speakers Association, she is a graduate of Leadership Denver, Leadership Aurora and a member of the Aurora Gateway Rotary Club.

The Loveland SBDC will be having an open house to celebrate 2 years serving the Loveland business community. Door prizes will be given out throughout the event.

This course is an introduction on how to use QuickBooks to best meet the needs of your business. The main objective is to introduce you to QuickBooks’ basic features and give you an opportunity for hands-on practice. You will learn about the types of information you need to track and how to enter that information to ensure proper bookkeeping.

Speaker: Heather Edwards, EKSH

This introductory, interactive workshop will cover how to properly utilize the QuickBooks program. You will learn how to set-up, back-up and store your company files, and also receive valuable accounting and bookkeeping tips. Learn How To: •Customize the Chart of Accounts •Create Invoices properly •Receive payments via Cash, Check and Credit Card •Reconcile bank accounts •Create Financial reports Each attendee will also receive a FREE QuickBooks starter kit!

Speaker: Brenda Sherman, CPA, Integrity Accounting and Tax Services, P.C.

The key to success in business is recognizing that a small percentage increase in each of the business' critical drivers can make all the difference in the world when it comes to your bottom line. One of the main critical business drivers, for example, is lead generation sources and the number of leads from each source. Leads are a business critical driver, but when asked, many business owners do not know the number of leads they get per day, per week or even per month. Lead generation is one of the most important drivers because what can be tested can be measured, and what can be measured can be improved. This seminar will help you to understand the business critical drivers that can move your business. These drivers assist you in determining the highest priorities in your business and help get you focused on the strategies that enable your business to become more successful. Through this interactive seminar, you will learn how to double or triple your company's profits.

Speaker: Earl Kemper, ActionCOACH Earl Kemper has more than 29 years experience as a wealth advisor, 27 years as a business coach and has sold seven successful businesses. Kemper applies a holistic view to the process of personal and business growth by addressing the human dynamics and social context in conjunction with sound strategies and business principles. He currently owns five successful businesses and frequently educates business and financial professionals across the world.

Intermediate QuickBooks is a continuation of the training offered in our QuickBooks for Beginners class. In this workshop, additional hands-on training will help you obtain a better understanding of why your financial records are so important and how this information can help you make managerial decisions within your company. Go through the transactions of a “sample company” to see how this program can improve your accounting practices. Topics covered include: •Creating Customers and Invoices •Credit Card Purchases and Payments •Receiving Payments from Customers •Entering and Paying Bills •Making Deposits •Understanding the Various Reports •Writing Checks •Back-up & Restoration of Your Company’s Files •Reconciling Bank, Credit Card Accounts

Speaker: Brenda Sherman, CPA, Integrity Accounting and Tax Services, P.C.

Do financial statements seem intimidating? Let us make them easy to understand! This seminar is an advanced continuation of Basics of Bookkeeping, and is taught by a local CPA. The class will cover balance sheets, income statements, statement of cash flow, financial projections, and budgeting. (Basics of Bookkeeping is recommended as a prerequisite only if you've no prior experience in bookkeeping). You can register by calling (719) 255-3844, or by clicking on the link below.

Speaker: Patti Asher, CPA (719) 227-1440; cpa@pjasher.com

Introduction to Quickbooks course: In today’s economic climate, you need an accounting system that will give you real-time, accurate information so that you can make good financial decisions about your business. Maybe you’ve heard of Quickbooks, but you are not sure how it works, or if it’s right for your business. This seminar will take the mystery out of Quickbooks and show you what a powerful, yet user-friendly tool it really is.

Speaker: Bethany McManus

This class covers how to manage your checkbook, handle credit card payments, reconciliation of accounts, accounts payable/receivable and analyzing your financials by using reports. This class is perfect for the person who has never used the program or is within their first year of ues.

Speaker: Rose Melville

This class is part of the Pathways to Success Start-up Series. A hands-on class to help you plan and understand the cash flow and cash needs of your business.

Speaker: Robin Shea, Loveland SBDC Director

Prerequisite: Must know Excel. This 4 hour workshop is a good place to start with compiling financial projections. It includes formulated spreadsheets that help create your budgets. Learn how to forecast sales and revenue, create a cash flow budget, determine time to secure funding, use financial statements to develop business plans, make better management decisions and set financial performance goals.

Speaker: Julie Cline

This class is geared to the existing business owner looking to grow their business. The instructor's forte is linking the accounting and finance functions to business operations. Easy to use practical tools you can apply to your business today.

Speaker: Sue Nylen, CPA, MBA

How to plan a successful web site – the complete guide! - Is this the first time you’ve needed a website? - Or maybe your first experience with putting together a website was less than successful? - Are you overwhelmed with not even understanding the jargon? - Choices, choices - where to even begin? Equip yourself with the basic know-how to plan a successful website. This comprehensive guide is the ideal starting point for people who want to learn what their options are and what’s really involved in having a successful web site. This workshop will guide you from your raw website idea through the development process to the ongoing promotion of a successful website. You can register by calling (719) 255-3844, or by clicking on the link below.

Speaker: Michelle Bracewell, Certified Webmaster

Understand the laws affecting online marketing; learn what agencies govern and regulate online marketing and how it can affect your business; avoid the legal issues associated with online marketing, social networking, privacy acts and/or issues associated marketing on the internet. Understand the laws regulating Telecommunications Act, Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, Franchise and Business Opportunity Rule, Lending Rules, Truth in Advertising, CANSPAM Act, Industry Specific Rules, Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and the Colorado Rules of Professional Ethics. You may be in violation of laws and regulations putting your business at risk. This interactive seminar will give you insight on ways to protect your intellectual property and avoid the pitfalls of online marketing.

Speaker: Elizabeth Lewis, ESQ. -Elizabeth Lewis owns the Law Office of E.C. Lewis, P.C. located in Cherry Creek where she is a practicing attorney. She holds a Masters in Computer Information Technology from Regis University and a Juris Doctorate from University of Colorado School of Law. She is licensed to practice law in the State of Colorado and the United States District Court for District of Colorado. She focuses her practice on helping small businesses with business formation, technology agreements, online agreements, employment/independent contractor agreements, sales and customer contracts, and the buying and selling of small businesses. She is a member of the Colorado Bar Association where she chairs the Young Lawyers Division of the Business Law Section and the Denver Bar Association.

This is a workshop for existing and startup businesses. This workshop covers getting to know your customers, competition and industry, positioning your business for success, developing smart marketing strategies, and developing a marketing plan.

Speaker: Bob Thilmont

Does Your Business Blog, Tweet or Poke? Which businesses are using Blogging, Social Network Sites (SNS), Podcasting, Wiki, Twitter and Flickr? These are all new web applications that can augment your marketing and customer service. This seminar is an overview of Web 2.0

Speaker: Chris Luchs

The ability to generate powerful content that search engines will notice, interact with your community in real-time, gather data faster than your competitors, and analyze your marketing metrics as they happen - can give you the edge you need to succeed. Nick Armstrong will be showing you step-by-step processes for achieving optimum marketing goals.

Speaker: Nick Armstrong, Web Strategist

Twitter is one of the most popular social networking tools for individuals and businesses. Twitter allows for quick office conversations, coordinating events in progress, delivers immediate customer service, and offers a novel way to market your business and expertise. During this workshop you will be provided with how to get started, how Twitter affects businesses, strategies for twitter implementation, and tools for managing your twitter account. You can follow the North Metro SBDC on twitter, just search for northmetrosbdc.

Speaker: Chris Luchs

In a tough economy, it's the soft skills that yield hard core results. In the past, we thought IQ was the key to success in life, but research now shows that it is our ability to understand our emotions and those of others that separate the winners from the rest of the pack. Emotional Intelligence is one of the most important concepts to hit the business world in recent years. It reaches into every aspect of your business. After this seminar, you will walk away with an understanding of 15 primary Emotional Intelligence attributes, how they show up in day-to-day business development and what you can do to raise your level in any of them. Learn why understanding yourself will help you sell more, and sell more easily. You will discover why traditional training of any kind does not stick and what to do about it. Learn a six-step process for consultative business development.

Speaker: Colleen Stanley, SalesLeadership, Inc. Colleen Stanley is the founder and president of SalesLeadership, Inc. She is a monthly columnist for Business Journals across the country, author of ‘Growing Great Sales Teams’ and co-author of "Motivational Selling." Stanley is the creator of EI Selling™, a unique and powerful sales program that integrates emotional intelligence skills with consultative sales skills. Prior to starting SalesLeadership, Colleen was vice president of sales and marketing for Varsity Spirit Corporation. During her 10 years at Varsity, sales increased from 8M to 90M. Little known facts: • Former triathlete (notice ‘former’) • Participated in the opening ceremonies of the 1984 Olympics • Made her first sale at age 6 Clients Include: Corporate Express, Orlando Magic, Vail Resorts, Leanin’ Tree, Arthur J. Gallagher, Siemens Corporation, Land Title Guarantee, Alps Mutual Fund, Lafarge North America, Alpine Bank, Gerald H. Phipps, New York Times Small Business Summit, Jones NCTI

Have you heard the term intellectual property and wonder if whether your business is creating it? Has your business created intellectual property but you are unsure about the best way to protect it? Are you starting an online marketing campaign and need to protect your business and its property while at the same time trying to get customers? Please join attorney Elizabeth Lewis as she discusses the types of intellectual property, common ways to protect it both offline and online, and what your business needs to know prior to starting an online marketing campaign.(Minimum class size is 6 and 20 maximum.)

Speaker: Elizabeth Lewis

This class is part of the Pathways to Success Start-up Series. Learn how to determine if there is a market for your product or service, identify your competition and discover trends in your industry.

Speaker: Robin Shea, Loveland SBDC Director

Every business needs to take a strategic approach to incorporating social media into their marketing plan. Do you have a Twitter feed and a Facebook page, but you're not quite sure what to do with them, or how to measure your results? Sean Macready will teach you strategies and tactics to help you create a successful social media campaign using simple tools and techniques that are credible and measurable.

Speaker: Sean Macready

The Secrets to Using the Internet to Market Your Business Over 68% of people begin their search for products and services on the Internet. Is your business showing up showing up #1? If not, this comprehensive workshop will provide you with all the insights you need to generate more business through the effective use of several online marketing tools. Some of the areas included is this session include: •Scoring at the top on Google •Using Paid Search •Social Media Marketing

Speaker: Webolutions, The Strategic Marketing Agency

This presentation teaches attendees how to strategically develop the most important piece of their Sales Cycle, the actual process they take from Handshake to Close. Unlock Your Organizations Potential to increase revenue, awareness, and customer service towards increased profits. While taking a “Nothing but Back to the Basics” approach, Progressive Impact touches on the foundational perspectives that often times get over-looked, under-developed, and not worth the foundation that they are paved upon. There are three developmental cycles within the “Sales” process: Promotion, Procedure, & Perfection! During this two hour presentation we are going to focus on the Procedural Sales Process from Handshake to Close, all while leaving you with the tools you need to develop it. Let’s Get Started! You can register by calling (719) 255-3844, or by clicking on the link below.

Speaker: Mark E. Bittle, strategic business planner, owner of Progressive Impact

This seminar is best for all audiences, beginner-advanced. This free interactive seminar will provide you with valuable information regarding best practices and winning strategies in email marketing as well as showing you how to get and keep quality subscribers, increase deliverability and open rates, tips for writing compelling content and more! Learn from valuable case studies of how other businesses have effectively used email marketing to boost their business Come and get valuable information to help you formulate a customer communication strategy that really works!

Speaker: Zak Barron, Constant Contact Inc