Citizen Potawatomi Community Development Corporation

Blogging for Small Business: How to Improve SEO and Drive Website Traffic
2026-04-09 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Chicago) | ONLINE
Blogs remain one of the most effective ways to increase website traffic, but many business owners overlook blogging in their content marketing strategies. A well-written blog can help search engines prioritize your content for potential clients and organically drive them to your business.
In this webinar, you’ll learn how to use blogging as a marketing tool that helps your business get found online, build trust with your audience, and bring more people to your website. You’ll also learn how to create effective blog posts and see how one well-written blog turned into content for email, social media and other marketing channels.
Participants will receive a Blog Content Planning Workbook and SEO Blog Template to help apply what they learn.

Why blogging is still one of the most powerful tools for small business marketing
How blogging helps your SEO and Google rankings
The Blog writing system, keywords, structure, headline and hooks to get clicks
How investing in one blog can save you time creating marketing content across the board

Business Start Up
2026-04-10 10:30 - 12:00 | ONLINE
It’s back to basics! If you want to start a business but aren’t sure where to begin, then this class is for you. In this workshop, our SBDC professionals will address many of the questions you should ask yourself before beginning the process of starting a new business. Attendees will learn about legal business structures, small business tax basics, best management practices, basic marketing strategies and market research. We will also talk about how to write a business plan and the importance of financial statements. After attending, you will have the opportunity to connect with one of our SBDC Business Advisors to get assistance in moving through the stages of your business venture. Attendees will receive a copy of the presentation along with helpful handouts, and have the opportunity to ask questions.
Speaker(s): OKSBDC Business Advisor
Co-Sponsor(s):
Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Language assistance services are available for limited English proficient individuals with appropriate advance notice. Please contact OKSBDC Training Manager Cindy Ruminer by email at cindy.ruminer@oksbdc.org or call 580-745-2877. All SBDC programs and services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. “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.” This training event is supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering, I certify that I am legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, in accordance with applicable federal law and regulations.

How to Actually Grow Your Business - Build a 12-Month Growth Plan
2026-04-14 12:00 - 13:30 | ONLINE
Most small business owners want to grow but struggle to decide where to focus next. Trying to pursue more customers, higher prices, better margins, and new offers all at once leads to wasted time, inconsistent execution, and slower growth. To grow your business effectively, you need to identify the best opportunity for your business and focus your efforts on it.
In this webinar, our expert presenter will show you how to choose the right growth strategy based on your business’s current performance, priorities, and constraints. You’ll learn how to evaluate whether your next step should be gaining more clients, increasing revenue, improving margins, or refining your offers. You’ll also learn how to identify the biggest obstacles that could limit growth, from capacity and conversion issues to pricing and margin challenges.
You’ll leave with a clear decision on which growth strategy to prioritize and a focused 12-month plan you can confidently execute.
Learning objectives:

How to evaluate your business to determine the best growth opportunity
How to decide whether more customers, higher revenue per client, better margins, or offer changes should be your focus
How to pinpoint the key constraints that could limit your growth
How to translate your decision into a clear, focused 12-month plan

Canva 1.0
2026-04-15 11:00 - 12:00 | ONLINE
If Canva feels overwhelming — or you know just enough to get by — this class is for you.
In Canva 1.0, we’ll cover the essentials, so you feel confident using Canva for everyday business needs. This is a virtual beginner-friendly session focused on real use cases, not design theory.
You’ll walk away knowing how to create clean, professional graphics quickly.
What You’ll Learn
• Canva dashboard + tools overview
• Creating:
• Social media posts
• Documents
• Simple templates
• How to save, organize, and reuse designs
• Sharing designs with staff or collaborators
• Easy design tips to make graphics look polished fast
This is a hands-on, interactive class where you’ll actively work on your own business during the session. You’ll engage live, receive guidance and walk away with tools, content and confidence you can use immediately.
Presenter: Lauren Denny, Kiamichi Technology Center
This event is presented by the Oklahoma Commercialization Network (OCN), powered by Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST), in collaboration with i2E, Inc., The Verge OKC, REI Oklahoma and Gradient Innovation Hub.
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. Women’s Business Center (WBC) services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities and language assistance services for clients with limited English proficiency will be provided if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact REI Oklahoma WBC at (800) 658-2823.

Business Smart
2026-04-16 11:00 - 12:00 | ONLINE
If you’re looking to start a business and have questions on where to begin, this workshop covers those first steps. Maybe you have a business idea and need to answer a few questions to give the idea more structure. Have you thought of a clever name, registered your business, or opened a bank account? Now what? In this workshop, we will be covering the following topics: Market Feasibility Key sections of a business plan Factors to consider when determining legal structure Where to find funding Key resources for your business The goal of this workshop is to provide direction to new entrepreneurs and introduce you to the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center. Attendees will have a better understanding of initial steps to starting their business.
Speaker(s): OKSBDC Advisor Shannon Spier OKSBDC Advisor Greg Jones
Co-Sponsor(s):
Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Language assistance services are available for limited English proficient individuals with appropriate advance notice. Please contact OKSBDC Training Manager Cindy Ruminer by email at cindy.ruminer@oksbdc.org or call 580-745-2877. All SBDC programs and services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. “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.” This training event is supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering, I certify that I am legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, in accordance with applicable federal law and regulations

Understanding Small Business Tax Requirements
2026-04-20 11:00 - 12:00 | Kiamichi Technology Center – Talihina, 13739 SE 202nd Raod, Talihina, OK, 74571, United States
Understanding tax responsibilities is an essential part of running a successful small business. Understanding Small Business Tax Requirements is an informative discussion designed to help small business owners gain a clearer understanding of what is required of them and how to be prepared.
This workshop provides a broad overview of the key tax responsibilities small businesses may face and highlights the importance of proper planning, organization, and recordkeeping. Participants will explore what it means to be tax-ready, how business structure can impact tax obligations, and the importance of staying informed about filing requirements and deadlines.
The goal of this session is to equip small business owners with greater awareness and confidence so they can take proactive steps toward compliance and financial preparedness. Whether you are just getting started or want to ensure you are on the right track, this discussion will help you better understand your responsibilities and how to prepare for them effectively.
Speaker(s): Trinity Lively Oklahoma SBDC Business Advisor
Co-Sponsor(s): Kiamichi Technology Center
Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Language assistance services are available for limited English proficient individuals with appropriate advance notice. Please contact OKSBDC Training Manager Cindy Ruminer by email at cindy.ruminer@oksbdc.org or call 580-745-2877.
All SBDC programs and services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. “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.”
This training event is supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering, I certify that I am legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, in accordance with applicable federal law and regulations

Food Truck 101
2026-04-21 09:30 - 11:00 | Great Plains Business Development Center, 1601 SW Park Ridge Blvd, McMahon Lecture, Lawton, OK, 73505, United States
Thinking about starting your own food truck?
Join us for Food Truck 101! Whether you’re just starting to brainstorm or you’re ready to hit the road, this session will cover the essentials of getting your mobile business off the ground.
Presented by Bryan Cauthon, Customized Training Coordinator & Restaurant Owner with Special Guests Brady Roach, Comanche County Health Department.

Understanding Small Business Tax Requirements
2026-04-21 11:00 - 12:00 | Kiamichi Technology Center – StiglerCamopus, 1410 Old Military Road, Stigler, 74462, United States

Make Your Website Work for You
2026-04-22 11:00 - 12:00 | ONLINE
Want to learn the best tips for launching or sprucing up your business website?
In this workshop, Google’s Maria Elena Duron will help entrepreneurs discover how to create a search-friendly website that drives user action and supports your business goals. Whether launching a new website or sprucing up an old one, this workshop is for you.
Speaker(s): Maria Elena Duron, Google Expert Trainer
Co-Sponsor(s):
Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Language assistance services are available for limited English proficient individuals with appropriate advance notice. Please contact OKSBDC Training Manager Cindy Ruminer by email at cindy.ruminer@oksbdc.org or call 580-745-2877.
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.
This training event is supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering, I certify that I am legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, in accordance with applicable federal law and regulations

HHS DOI Buy Indian Industry Day & Matchmaking
2026-04-27 - 2026-04-28 | Okana Conference Center, 639 First Americans Boulevard, Oklahoma City, OK, 73129, United States
Make plans to join us in Oklahoma City for the 4 Annual Buy Indian Industry Day and Matchmaking Hosted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Interior, when we will focus on
“Strengthening Tribal Economies Through Federal Procurement: A Buy Indian Act Small Business Industrial Base Forum”.
This event is co-hosted by all 6 Native APEX Accelerators, and will have one day of training sessions, and one day of matchmaking with HHS and DOI buyers! There is no charge to attend!
Call 405-934-1990 and reference “4th Annual Buy Indian Industry Day & Matchmaking”
Questions?? Email apex@ncaied.org

Prepare for Event Success: Plan for Peak Demand, Operations, and Execution
2026-04-28 12:00 - 13:30 | ONLINE
Choosing to participate in a major event like the FIFA World Cup, the Olympics, trade shows, and festivals can be a big opportunity to reach new customers and sales. But once you’ve committed to participating, the real challenge is execution. Without a clear operational plan to deal with the increased demand and unexpected challenges, a big opportunity can quickly turn into a costly mistake.
In this webinar, you’ll learn how to prepare your business to run smoothly and perform at its best during major events. We’ll cover how to anticipate demand, plan staffing and inventory, and put simple systems in place so your business can handle the surge without disruption. By the end of this session, you’ll have a clear approach to operate with confidence, reduce stress, and make the most of the opportunity.
In this webinar, you’ll learn how to:

Anticipate demand and plan resources before, during, and after a major event
Build flexible staffing and inventory plans to handle spikes and slowdowns
Create simple workflows to keep operations running smoothly during busy periods
Prepare for unexpected challenges like shortages, delays, or demand surges
Keep your core business running smoothly while managing increased demand

Canva 2.0
2026-04-29 11:00 - 12:00 | ONLINE
Building on the foundation of Canva basics, this class shows you how to use the platform to the fullest!
What Should Be in Canva 2.0:
• Brand kits (colors, fonts, logos)
• Creating reusable content systems
• Advanced templates for:
• Reels
• Carousels
• Promotions
• Canva features that save time:
• Magic resize
• Bulk create
• Animation basics
• Designing for consistency across platforms
• How to design faster
This is a hands-on, interactive class where you’ll actively work on your own business during the session. You’ll engage live, receive guidance and walk away with tools, content and confidence you can use immediately.
Presenter: Lauren Denny, Kiamichi Technology Center
This event is presented by the Oklahoma Commercialization Network (OCN), powered by Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST), in collaboration with i2E, Inc., The Verge OKC, REI Oklahoma and Gradient Innovation Hub.
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. Women’s Business Center (WBC) services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities and language assistance services for clients with limited English proficiency will be provided if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact REI Oklahoma WBC at (800) 658-2823.

CPCDC Lunch and Learn -Growing your Financial Garden
2026-05-07 12:00 - 13:00 | South Reunion Hall, 1702 Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK, 74801, United States
CPCDC’s May Lunch & Learn events for 2026- Growing Your Financial Garden!
Please join us for a fun and practical session to help you grow your finances by Saving and Investing!
Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: CPN- The South Reunion Hall

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: The Grand Casino-Deer Room
**Lunch is provided with registration**
Space is limited so sign up ASAP!

To register please email angela.franklin@cpcdc.org
Or call our office at CPCDC 405-878-4697 x 4257

Business Loan 101
2026-05-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Great Plains Business Development Center, 1601 SW Park Ridge Blvd, McMahon Lecture, Lawton, OK, 73505, United States
In this workshop, you will…

Develop and qualify your business idea with market research.
Understand the important legal and financial considerations.
Learn the steps to build your business brand.
Discover the marketing and sales strategies.
Receive information on business funding.

CPCDC Lunch and Learn Growing your Financial Garden
2026-05-21 12:00 - 13:00 | Grand Casino Hotel & Resort, 777 Grand Casino Boulevard, Shawnee, OK, 74804, United States

Writing a Business Plan
2026-05-26 09:00 - 11:00 | Great Plains Business Development Center, 1601 SW Park Ridge Blvd, McMahon Lecture, Lawton, OK, 73505, United States

New Business Workshop - Hear Directly From the Oklahoma Tax Commision
2026-05-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Gordon Cooper Technology Center, 1 John C Bruton Dr., Shawnee, 74804, United States
New Business Workshop with the Oklahoma Tax Commission.

Business Setup – Complete the essential steps to register your company and build a solid legal foundation from day one.
Tax Mastery – Demystify your federal and state tax obligations to ensure you remain compliant while maximizing your financial efficiency.
Expert Support – Navigate common pitfalls through a live Q&A session and bridge the gap with valuable local business resources.

This workshop is free but registration is encouraged. For more information contact Cama Watts at camaw@gctech.edu.

Red Earth Festival
2026-08-01 - 2026-08-02
The Red Earth Festival Turns 40 and We’re Coming Home!

Get ready for a milestone year like no other.
In 2026, the Red Earth Festival is coming home to downtown Oklahoma City, for a two-day celebration of Native art, culture, and community.
This 40th Anniversary Festival will be bigger, bolder, and more unforgettable than ever before.
Buy Tickets or Register as an artist at the link below:
40th Anniversary Red Earth Festival Tickets

CPCDC Lunch and Learn Smart Spending at Home
2026-08-13 12:00 - 13:00 | South Reunion Hall, 1702 Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK, 74801, United States
CPCDC’s August Lunch & Learn events for 2026- Smart Spending at Home!
Please join us for a fun and practical session about Smart Spending at Home!
Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: CPN- The South Reunion Hall

Date: Thursday, August 20, 2026
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: The Grand Casino-Deer Room
**Lunch is provided with registration**
Space is limited so sign up ASAP!

To register please email angela.franklin@cpcdc.org
Or call our office at CPCDC 405-878-4697 x 4257

CPCDC Lunch and Learn Smart Spending at Home
2026-08-20 12:00 - 13:00 | Grand Casino Hotel & Resort, 777 Grand Casino Boulevard, Shawnee, OK, 74804, United States

CPCDC Lunch and Learn Peace Through Planning
2026-11-05 12:00 - 13:00 | South Reunion Hall, 1702 Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK, 74801, United States
Please join us for a fun and practical session to help you have Peace Through Planning!
Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: CPN- The South Reunion Hall

Date: Thursday, November 19, 2026
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: The Grand Casino-Deer Room
**Lunch is provided with registration**
Space is limited so sign up ASAP!

To register please email angela.franklin@cpcdc.org
Or call our office at CPCDC 405-878-4697 x 4257

CPCDC Lunch and Learn Peach Through Planning
2026-11-19 08:00 - 17:00 | Grand Casino Hotel & Resort, 777 Grand Casino Boulevard, Shawnee, OK, 74804, United States
