On-Demand Events

how to start

How to Apply for PPP: Self Employed, Sole Proprietors, & Independent Contractors

Since released in early 2020 under the CARES Act, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has undergone several changes.

Most recently, the Economic Aid Act of December 2020, renewed PPP funding allowing for first time and second time applications.

Our advisors walk through how PPP specifically works for you, whether this is your first time applying or you are seeking additional funds. We also explain how the allowable uses have been updated and expanded.

We cover:
• How to calculate the amount you are eligible for;
• Allowable payroll and non-payroll loan uses;
• Documentation needed; and
• Forgiveness enhancements

Register here

Webinar tailored for: Self-employed, Independent Contractors, Sole Proprietors with no employees

This webinar was recorded on 2/9/20

how to start

How to Start Your Business

Connecticut Small Business Development Center partners with aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their business dreams into a reality.

Join CTSBDC Microenterprise Business Advisor Mary Kay Della Camera in this recorded webinar as she walks you through everything you need to know about launching a successful business from the initial market research to obtaining the licenses and permits you will need.

Representatives from Key Bank explain the importance of a strong banking relationship as well as different financial options available to entrepreneurs.

This webinar will help you:

  • Assess your readiness to start a business
  • Determine the financial and market feasibility of your idea
  • Understand the basics of business planning
  • Prepare yourself for securing financing
  • Know the right steps in the right order to get your business started

There is no cost for this webinar recording, however registration is required.

Register here

This webinar was recorded on January 28, 2021

what's next

What’s Next: Rethinking Your Business in a Post-COVID World

As businesses look toward planning their future, CTSBDC is helping you adapt your business to the new normal.

In this recorded webinar, we will discuss the process of pivoting your business and discuss some of the CTSBDC tools available to help you review your financials, conduct a market analysis, and interpret industry trends.

Christine Sullivan, CTSBDC Operations Team Lead, presents these resources and help business owners understand how they can rethink their business strategy.

Topics we cover:

  • Pivoting and your business
  • Creating a crisis management team
  • Assessing your financial health

There is no cost for this recorded webinar, however, registration is required.

Register here

This webinar was recorded on January 19, 2021

Federal Funding Relief Updates

Federal Relief Funding Updates: Minority and Small Business Focus

With some guidelines now available – and at last the Paycheck Protection Program applications opening this week with select designated community financial institutions (view list here) – now is the time to line up your relevant documents.
Topics to be covered:
  • Updates to Unemployment & Tax Relief
  • PPP Guidelines for First-Time and Second-Round Applicants
  • PPP Revised Eligibility, Uses, & Forgiveness
  • Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) & Targeted Advance – Availability & Eligibility
  • Overview of Shuttered Venues Program
  • Highlight the specific portions of the legislation that serve minority-owned businesses.

This webinar was recorded on 1/13 and contains information specific to minority business owners.

Register here

This webinar was recorded on 1/13/21

Grow With Google

How to Apply for PPP: Self Employed, Sole Proprietors, & Independent Contractors

Reach more customers online with Google

Showing up when customers are searching online is more important than ever.

Ensure customers can find accurate, updated information about your local business on Google Search and Google Maps, no matter which device they use.

In this workshop, you will learn how to create and manage a Google business profile from start to finish.

In this session we’ll show you how to:

  • Create or claim your Business Profile on Google
  • Manage your business info across Google Search and Maps
  • Use Google My Business to connect with potential customers

Presenter: Sixcia Devine, Social Entrepreneur and Grow with Google Presenter
Moderator: Matt Nemeth, CTSBDC Business Advisor

Register here

This webinar was recorded on 12/9/2020

STEP Webinar

CT STEP Guidelines and Application

Please join the Connecticut Small Business Development Center, Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, and U.S. Department of Commerce to learn about the Connecticut State Trade Expansion Program (STEP).

STEP is funded in part through a grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  The program goal of STEP FY 2020 is to increase the number of eligible small businesses (ESBCs) that export, increase the value of exports by ESBCs, and increase the number of ESBCs exploring significant new trade opportunities.

STEP is designed to help small businesses get started exporting by providing funds to be used in a variety of activities, including:

  • Translation/Interpreter fees
  • US Department of Commerce commercial services fees
  • International materials/Collateral translation
  • Website translation and optimization
  • Export training registration fees
  • B2B matchmaking registration fees
  • Compliance testing
  • In-person and virtual Trade mission/Trade show cost (including registration/booth fee, furniture, graphics, signage, shipping)

This webinar will cover:

  • Overview STEP program guidelines
  • Creating a new account on the STEP Application Portal
  • Eligibility, application and required documents
  • Reimbursement request procedure

Register here

PPP Forgiveness

Latest PPP Forgiveness Updates

The Small Business Administration (SBA) & Treasury Department released updated guidelines for a simplified forgiveness process for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under $50,000. This critical update reduces the burden on smaller businesses and lenders not only by reducing paperwork but also by expanding forgiveness criteria.

In addition, specific guidance has been issued for those business owners who obtained a PPP loan and are now considering selling or bringing in additional partners to the business.

Register to learn what all this means for your business, and how we can help. At the end of the recording, we answered some questions from attendees.

Register here

This is a recorded webinar from 10/21/20. 

Phase 3

Phase 3: Strategies and Suggestions for Success

Learn how you can implement health and safety measures to prepare to bring your business indoors

CTSBDC brought together experts around the the state to discuss how small businesses are preparing to ensure employee and customer safety as they bring their business indoors. The panel includes:

David Lehman, Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development

Bob Cooke, Partner & Owner, Max’s Oyster Bar

Jennifer Kertanis, Health Director, Farmington Valley Health District

Paula Schenck, Research Associate and Advisor to physicians at the UConn Health Occupational and Environmental Medicine Clinic on environmental contributors to illness

This webinar provides:

  • Phase 3 guideline review
  • How restaurant owners are preparing for indoor dining
  • Working with your local health department
  • Low-cost, yet effective suggestions for air purification & ventilation

Register here

This is a recorded webinar from 10/29/20.