Biz2Grow

Pitch Deck Building and Practice
2025-12-13 15:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | VIRTUAL
This session is designed to help business owners prepare for capital-seeking opportunities. Participants work in two groups: one for building a pitch deck (a slideshow sales presentation required for seeking investment partners or loans) and one for practicing an existing pitch. We will explore what must be included in a 10-minute pitch, how to present compelling stories and metrics, and identify what finance professionals seek. Those who practice their pitch will receive 10 minutes to present and receive necessary expert feedback.

To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit biz2grow.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

The Cash Flow Masterclass
2025-12-12 12:00 - 13:30 | VIRTUAL
Are you stressed about managing your business’s cash flow? Join us for an in-depth masterclass where we’ll demystify cash flow and provide you with actionable strategies to keep your business running smoothly. We will cover how to speed up payments, manage expenses, and use financial reports to make smarter decisions. You’ll also see how QuickBooks can automate these processes, freeing up your time to focus on growth.

To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit biz2grow.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

AI and Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Business While You Grow
2025-12-10 13:00 - 14:30 | VIRTUAL
Explore how AI is changing the cybersecurity landscape, both for attackers and defenders. Walk away with practical steps to safeguard your business, plus learn how Verizon solutions can help you stay protected as you adopt new AI tools.

To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit biz2grow.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

2025 Leadership Conference
2025-09-22 08:00 - 2025-09-24 17:00 | Washington, DC, 400 New Jersey Ave NW, Washington, 20001, United States
Spend three days networking, learning, and connecting with fellow small business owners, industry experts, top brands, executives, and more!
Hear from inspiring keynote speakers, dive into breakout sessions on the topics that matter most to you, and enjoy evening receptions and mingling events.
This event will leave you feeling energized and excited to continue your entrepreneurial journey!
Learn more about the event here
Purchase Tickets Here (This link will redirect you to our host site. Scroll down and choose a “small business” ticket.)

Subscription-ready: Transform your website for predictable revenue
2025-07-31 12:00 - 14:00 | VIRTUAL
This is an advanced-level session that requires prerequisites: a built ecommerce website, and an email campaign application.
Consistent leads for your website are one of the main ways to increase your revenue as a small business owner. When clients stay in the loop on your business, you’ll have more consistent conversions and sales. Ready to step up your website game to boost your revenue? Sign up today!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

KIVA Information Call: Learn How to Access 0% Interest Loans
2025-07-23 14:00 - 15:00 | VIRTUAL
REGISTER HERE
Looking for capital to grow your business—without high interest rates or a lengthy approval process? Join us for a free KIVA Information Call to learn how you can access 0% interest, no-fee microloans up to $15,000 through the KIVA platform.
We’ll walk through who qualifies, how to apply, and how this unique crowdfunding model helps entrepreneurs like you gain visibility and support. Whether you’re just starting out or need a boost to expand, this session will help you decide if KIVA is the right fit.
Perfect for:

Startups and early-stage businesses
Entrepreneurs who need capital but may not qualify for traditional loans
Business owners with community support and a growth mindset

Bring your questions—we’re here to help!

The Best Conversions: Email marketing, lead magnets, and landing pages
2025-07-17 14:00 - 16:00 | VIRTUAL
This is an introductory-level session that provides a foundational overview of the topic.
Did you know that email marketing, over any other digital marketing niche, converts more viewers into sales. That’s more than social media or advertising. You are missing out on sales if you are not building an email list of customers and fans. Email marketing starts with a list that you own and control. Join us for a concise yet comprehensive exploration of email marketing best practices and strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting, this session has something for you! Don’t miss out – sign up now and unlock the full potential of your digital strategy!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Angel Investing 101: What Business Owners Need to Know
2025-07-17 12:00 - 13:00 | VIRTUAL
Curious about angel investing and how it could support your business? In this
webinar, we’ll break down what angel investing is, how it works, and what investors are
really looking for. Whether you’re actively seeking funding or just exploring your options,
this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate early-stage investment with
confidence.
Register Here
We’ll cover:
● What angel investing is and how it differs from other funding sources
● What investors look for in early-stage businesses
● How to position your business to attract angel investors
● Common red flags that turn investors away
● Practical tips for pitching your business and building investor relationships

About the Speaker:
Liz Sara is a successful businesswoman with more than 30 years of experience in the national entrepreneurship community. Most recently, she served as President of the SCORE Foundation and prior to that, was a presidential appointee as Chair of the National Women’s Business Council. Liz ran a successful marketing agency in the DC area, providing executive leadership to nearly 100 early stage tech companies for more than 20 years. Liz has been an angel investor for several years and a regular speaker at industry conferences and podcasts focusing on startups, entrepreneurship and access to capital.

Black Friday - Are You Ready?
2025-07-14 17:00 - 19:00 | VIRTUAL
This is an introductory-level session that provides a foundational overview of the topic.
Prepare yourselves, entrepreneurs! As the clock ticks closer to Black Friday, the starting gun of the most pivotal two months in the marketing calendar, it’s imperative to arm yourselves with readiness. Anticipate the surge, harness the frenzy, and pave the way to unprecedented profits!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Business Plan Bootcamp
2025-06-25 13:30 - 15:30 | VIRTUAL
The process of thinking about and crafting your business plan provides clarity and a “north star” for your business, while also demonstrating a solid understanding and vision for the operating model. Your business plan helps prioritize what is important, critical tasks, as well as a timeline. With growth, the business plan offers a common understanding of the vision to new team members, potential investors, financial institutions, etc. After spending close to two decades building businesses with the banking industry, Cate Luzio founded Luminary. She wrote a business plan in a week and launched 8 months later. Cate will be hosting this Business Plan Boot Camp, breaking down each point and the basis for eight essential elements founders should include in a business plan, and why they matter.
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Understanding Business Funding: Loans, Grants & Where to Start
2025-06-17 13:00 - 14:00 | VIRTUAL
Explore the full spectrum of funding options available to small business owners—from grants, loans, and lines of credit to venture capital and angel investors. This webinar will help you understand the pros and cons of each, how to align funding types with your business stage and goals, and whether you’re truly ready to seek capital. We’ll also introduce tools from the Hope2Women Funding Center to help you take the next step with clarity and confidence.
REGISTER HERE

Conceptualize, Build, and Launch Your App
2025-06-17 11:00 - 13:00 | VIRTUAL
Join us for this “Ask the Expert” session, tailored for small business owners aiming to develop their own app. Learn essential strategies from ideation to launch as our seasoned expert shares insights, best practices, and tools to navigate the app development journey. Gain clarity, overcome challenges, and plan for success in this dynamic event designed to enhance your entrepreneurial goals. Reserve your spot now and take the next step towards realizing your app aspirations. Don’t miss out—secure your place today!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Writing Compelling Content: What Not to Write
2025-06-12 11:00 - 12:30 | VIRTUAL
In this digital age, business owners must be storytellers and story writers, too. To engage prospects before they click away, you must communicate clearly and descriptively on websites, social media, advertising, and printed materials to compel readers to become customers and fans. We all know great writing when we see it, but what are some of the speedbumps to creating compelling content? What are some of the common mistakes when we write about our businesses, products, and services? In this Ask the Expert session, learn the best practices from a professional content creator. Sign up now!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

$10,000 Small Business Grant: Tips & Best Practices Info Session
2025-06-11 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-05-22 14:00 - 15:00 | VIRTUAL
Interested in applying for the $10,000 small business grant on Small Business Digital Ready? Join this session to learn all of the best practices to give your application the best shot at being a grant winner!
Register Here

Common Social Media Mistakes
2025-06-10 16:30 - 18:00 | VIRTUAL
You may be actively marketing your business using social media, but are you getting the results you want? Are you making the most of your social media activity? In this Ask the Expert session, we’ll discuss the most common social media mistakes that will prevent you from growing an engaged audience and strengthening your online presence. We will share strategies for using social media to effectively market your business. If you are a newbie when it comes to using social media for your business, this session is for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your social media to the next level. Sign up now!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Practical AI for Small Business: Sales and Lead Generation
2025-05-28 18:00 - 19:00 | VIRTUAL
AI can help small businesses find the right customers, follow up efficiently, and close more deals. In this session, Jacqui Jones, CEO of One Degree Marketing, will walk you through practical AI tools that can:

Identify high-potential leads to focus your efforts where they matter most
Automate follow-ups to keep prospects engaged without extra work
Improve conversion rates by personalizing outreach at scale

This session is part of Mastercard’s Practical AI for Small Business, a four-part series focused on practical AI applications for small business owners.
Register Here

Identifying & Addressing Customer Objections
2025-05-22 14:30 - 15:30 | VIRTUAL
Are you worried that you’re not selling as much or as well as you could? You are not
alone. Many entrepreneurs know they have a wonderful product or service offering, but they lack confidence in persuading others to buy it, and they fear rejection. But this, like many skills, can be improved with knowledge and honed with practice. You can develop your sales craft! You don’t want to miss this!
To get the most out of this session, users should have:

Your existing sales pitches
Business sales data to refer to
Common objections your customers pose after a pitch

To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Funding Q&A Session: Ask Your Funding Questions
2025-05-20 17:00 - 17:30, 2025-05-16 13:00 - 13:30 | VIRTUAL
HOPE2Women Funding Center Q&A Open Sessions are open to anyone that is exploring funding for their small business and have questions about the process.
Our team is ready to talk with you about all things capital, from loan types, business plans, financial projections, or getting connected to a Women’s Business Center. If we don’t have the answer, we’ll find you someone who does! All are welcome.
Register Here

Going Global: How to Scale with EXIM Bank
2025-05-20 13:00 - 14:00
Join the Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC), EXIM Bank, and HOPE2Women for an educational webinar that will guide you through the essential tools and resources for expanding your business internationally.
Learn best practices and strategies with Nada Allie, Business Development Specialist at EXIM Bank on how to access market research, find international buyers, secure financing, and more. Whether you’re new to exporting or looking to scale globally, this valuable session provides insights to help your business thrive in global markets.
Date: Tuesday, May 20
Time: 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET
Click here to register

Understanding Sales Metrics (KPIs)
2025-05-20 11:00 - 12:00 | VIRTUAL
Know your numbers! This webinar offers a comprehensive overview of financial, operational, and customer-related metrics, explaining how each one impacts the business. Participants will gain insights into tracking revenue, profit margins, customer acquisition costs, churn rates, and other vital metrics. In this Ask the Expert session, small business owners will learn how to identify and interpret the key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics essential for assessing their business’s overall health and performance. We will also cover tools and techniques for accurate data collection and analysis. By the end of the session, business owners will be able to leverage these insights to make informed decisions, drive growth, and ensure long-term success. Sign up now!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Writing Grants - Part 2 of 3
2025-05-19 15:00 - 16:00 | VIRTUAL
Thinking about pursuing grants for your small business and not sure where to start? This session is designed to equip entrepreneurs and business owners with the skills and knowledge necessary to secure grant funding. In this Ask the Expert session, we will cover the fundamentals of grant writing, including identifying appropriate grant opportunities, understanding eligibility criteria, and crafting compelling proposals that highlight the unique value and potential of their businesses. You don’t want to miss this!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Charla de pequeñas empresas: Events By Yudy
2025-05-16 15:00 - 16:00 | VIRTUAL
Únase a nosotros para una charla inspiradora e interactiva sobre pequeñas empresas en la que cada sesión reunimos a un nuevo panel de innovadores, solucionadores de problemas y pequeñas empresas como usted para compartir sus viajes personales y las soluciones que dieron forma a su negocio.
Estas conversaciones desentrañarán los desafíos a los que se han enfrentado, las estrategias que han empleado y las lecciones que han aprendido en el camino.
Esta sesión cuenta con Yudelka (Yudy) Carrera de Events By Yudy, enfocado en la planificación de eventos y catering.
Esta serie está diseñada para generar nuevas ideas, conectarlo con sus colegas de pequeñas empresas y fomentar el pensamiento creativo para ayudarlo a abordar los desafíos con una nueva perspectiva.
Sintonice para conversaciones sinceras, historias inspiradoras y conclusiones prácticas.
¡Regístrese ahora y sea parte de la conversación!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

What Goes Into a Marketing Plan?
2025-05-06 12:30 - 14:00 | VIRTUAL
Want to boost your visibility and attract new customers? This session is tailored just for you! Join an expert and a small group of peers to explore the essential components of a successful marketing plan. You’ll learn which marketing strategies are best suited for your business and which to avoid, how to effectively communicate your business story, identify your potential customers and discover where to find them, and determine where to focus your marketing efforts. Your expert will guide you through a straightforward, question-and-answer framework to help you create a clear, actionable marketing plan by the end of the session.
Who should register:

Business owners who want to better understand all aspects of marketing
Business owners developing a comprehensive marketing plan including target demographics, advertising, social media, and more
Business owners who are or will be seeking capital
Business owners who are struggling to be profitable

To Register for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Ways to Increase Your Cashflow
2025-05-05 14:30 - 16:30 | VIRTUAL
Cash flow liquidity can make or break a small business – especially in inflationary times like these. The amount of money that comes in and out of a business is a key indicator of its financial health. A consistent, positive cash flow can help you pay expenses, invest in new opportunities, and grow your business. Learn from our expert how to budget, make decisions for the short and long-term, and create a buffer in your day-to-day finances to keep you nimble and ready for anything. Sign up now!
To get the most out of this session, users should have:
Accounting software being used and a good understanding of their numbers.
To Register for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Boost Those Sales with Data
2025-05-05 11:30 - 12:30 | VIRTUAL
Unlock the power of data to boost your sales and grow your business! In this Ask the Expert session, learn the fundamentals of sales metrics and how to track and analyze them effectively. We’ll show you how to identify gaps in your sales performance and uncover the root causes behind them.
You’ll walk away with the tools and strategies to develop a solution, create an actionable plan, and measure your progress for continued success. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your sales strategy, this session will give you the foundation to take your business to the next level. Sign up now to start boosting your sales with data!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!

Practical AI for Small Business: Financial Management
2025-04-30 18:00 - 19:00 | VIRTUAL
Staying on top of your business finances doesn’t have to be overwhelming. AI-powered tools can help small business owners automate invoicing, track expenses, and predict cash flow, so you can focus on growth instead of spreadsheets. Ramona Cedeno, CPA, CGMA, and CEO of FiBrick, brings over 20 years of financial expertise to break down how AI can:
-Speed up payments by automating invoicing and reducing delays
-Simplify expense tracking so you always know where your money is going
-Improve cash flow forecasting to make smarter financial decisions
This session is part of Mastercard’s Practical AI for Small Business, a four-part series focused on practical, tactical AI applications for small business owners.
Register Here

Protecting Your Business in a Data-Driven World
2025-04-28 12:00 - 13:30 | VIRTUAL
In today’s digital marketplace, small businesses and nonprofits face growing challenges around data security, online advertising, and customer trust. Join us for an engaging panel discussion designed to help you make sense of data privacy — and what it means for your business.
Hear from national experts in privacy, cybersecurity, and advertising transparency as they share practical tips and real-world examples that small business owners can use right away.
Register Here
What You’ll Learn:

How to protect your business and customers with smart privacy and cybersecurity practices
The most common (and costly) pitfalls in online advertising
How data privacy can give small businesses a competitive edge
What current and emerging privacy laws could mean for your operations

Panelists:

Theodora Skeadas, Advisory Board Member, Cambridge Local First
Melanie Ensign, Founder & CEO, Discernible
Kimberly Lancaster, Founder & CEO, Avalon Privacy & Compliance
Arielle Garcia, Chief Operating Officer, Check My Ads
Moderator: Gwen Pokalo Hart

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, this session will equip you with the knowledge to better navigate the evolving digital landscape — and protect what you’ve built.

Using Local Resources to Grow Your Business
2025-04-24 15:00 - 16:00 | VIRTUAL
There’s a little-known secret in your town – hidden within universities, libraries, trade associations, and many other local groups, teams are ready to help you grow your business with special resources, guidance, and programs. Learn what these local resources typically have to offer, how to find them in your area, and how to get started.
In this Ask the Expert session, hear from a small business expert who has worked with local groups, schools, and associations to create lasting, impactful partnerships. Sign up now!
To Sign up for the Event:
-Visit hope2women.org/verizon
-Create a free account
-Search for this webinar under “events”
-Register!
