Citizen Potawatomi Community Development Corporation

How Packaging Can Build Your Brand, Reduce Damages and Waste, and Even Save Money
2021-02-09 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | ONLINE
Increased online shopping during the pandemic means consumers are being flooded with more packages than ever. Packaging can make your shipments stand out from those of other businesses and products, while helping reduce damages and save money.
In this session, Kim Dixon, FedEx Office Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, will discuss key packaging considerations for small-business shippers and share how optimizing your packaging can increase customers’ satisfaction and even reduce waste and cost.
You’ll learn about:

Packaging Basics for brand new shippers to save money in the long run
Custom-branded boxes and other packaging options to market your business
How to understand and calculate dimensional weight to decrease estimated shipping costs
How to utilize the experts at the FedEx Packaging Lab for package, freight and material testing to ensure better protection for your shipments and help reduce customer damage claims

Presented by Kim Dixon

As Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of FedEx Office, Kim Dixon leads a network of 2,100 digitally connected retail stores and customer locations, and 19 centralized print production facilities. Nearly 200,000 customers turn to these locations every day for expert print capabilities, customized packing and shipping, and same-day delivery, making it a one-stop shop for small-business owners.

Under Dixon’s leadership, FedEx Office team members take great pride in understanding each customer’s needs, developing innovative solutions and delivering world-class service that bring their visions to life, watching start-ups grow into thriving businesses.

Sponsored by

Vitural Training: Intro To LinkedIn
2021-02-09 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Chicago)
Date/Time:
February 9th, 2021
Start Time: 2:00 pm
End Time: 3:30 pm

We’ll provide an overview of the business social media platform, share how to create a professional profile, best practices to using LinkedIn and using the platform to build a business.
Presenter: Stephen Koranda, CDME, CTA, is a 20-plus year marketing professional.
Koranda is Principal and Sr. Consultant for Back To You Marketing, a marketing agency and tourism consultancy firm based in Norman, Oklahoma, that counsels small businesses on their marketing initiatives to grow their business. Koranda speaks regularly on marketing, sales, social media, email marketing, and customer service. Koranda is the Authorized Local Expert for Constant Contact, the email service provider and marketing toolkit.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Virtual Training: Excel ~ Introduction to Formulas & Functions
2021-02-10 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Chicago)
Date/Time:
February 10th, 2021
Start Time: 10:00 am
End Time: 11:30 am

This session covers the basics of functions and formulas in Excel. Participants will learn the keys to error-free formula entry, how to edit a worksheet, how to use functions like Sum and Average, and working with Autoformat and Autocomplete. The presenter will also include tips for efficiently creating large sheets using the Autofill and Autosum features of Excel.
We’ll have plenty of time for Q&A with the presenter at the end of the session!
Presenter: Chris Hennes, Pioneer Library System
Workshop provided by Pioneer Library System and REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

The Essentials of Great Product Photography
2021-02-10 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Great product photography is essential for any artist or craftsman who needs to showcase their work through photos. Learning to take great photos helps build trust in your products by giving consumers a true representation of your work. Whether it’s to build your artist portfolio or sell your work online, you’ll benefit from expert product photography tips taught by Native photographer, Roxanne Best.
The Photography Workshop will take place over two 2-hour sessions. The first session will be on Thursday, February 11th at 11:00 am Pacific / 12:00 pm Mountain / 1:00 pm Central. There will be a session at the same time on Friday, February 12th. The workshop is free and open all entrepreneurs.
This workshop will be delivered online utilizing the Zoom platform. The workshop can be taken on computers and smartphones.

Marketing Strategies to Grow Your Business
2021-02-10 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Chicago)
From engaging customers to managing a marketing plan with varying budgets, join for a session on marketing strategies.

About this Event

Future Proof is a program that assists businesses with identifying new markets, pivoting their business model, and developing and implementing a deep digital transformation plan. Join via Zoom link below.

Marketing is one of the most obvious ways to grow your business. It’s a growth strategy we’re all familiar with, but it can feel like a big step for business owners who lack the expertise or experience to know how to market effectively in today’s economy.

In this online interactive Q&A, we’ll discuss low cost ways that you can start attracting more customers and generating more revenue from the ones that you already have.

Join us for a short presentation on:
● How to re-engage existing customers
● How to identify and attract new customers
● How to develop a marketing plan
● Low cost no cost marketing ideas you can use

Followed by a Q&A
● We’ll discuss some of the unique challenges small business owners are facing and how to deal with them
● You will get the opportunity to have your questions answered by entrepreneurs who understand the challenges you’re going through

Sign up today to secure your spot and start growing your business.

Please register and complete the survey questions upon checkout. Please note that this session will be recorded. Join via Zoom here at 2pm.

Native AG Producer Taxes and Finance Toolkit
2021-02-10 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago)
As tax season approaches do you want to learn more about how Native agriculture producers can prepare and complete forms like the Schedule F?
Join this series of webinars to learn how to be well prepared for lender meetings, thus cultivating a positive borrower relationship. We will cover preparing a balance sheet to convey your financial position; understanding the Sch. F tax form to share farm profitability; and telling your story to your lender, preparing a cash flow plan and other business planning tools.

Topic: Balance Sheets –
Speakers: Denny Everson and Pauline Van Nurden
Watch Here

Date: February 3rd 2pm CT
Topic: Taxes – Schedule F
Speakers: Rob Holcombe

Date: February 10th 2pm CT
Topic: Telling my story to a lender & modeling cashflow
Speakers: Denny Everson and Pauline Van Nurden
Hosted by the Mvskoke Fund
Delivered by the University of Minnesota’s Center for Farm Financial Management
Partners include Native360 Loan Fund
Sponsored by the Native American Agriculture Fund

You can join for all three events here!

Virtual Training: Business Basics: Starting Your Own Business
2021-02-11 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Chicago)
Date/Time:
February 11th, 2021
Start Time: 9:00 am
End Time: 11:00 am

To start your own business you need to know the questions to ask, location and structure types, how to register in Oklahoma, preparation of the business plan, understanding business financials, and the steps to getting financed. Federal, state, and local resources will also be discussed in this session. This seminar is a broad overview of the different areas to consider when starting a new business. There will be plenty of time allotted to ask questions of the instructors and business experts.
Speakers from Francis Tuttle, Moore Norman Tech, OKSBDC, and REI Women’s Business Center.
Partners: Francis Tuttle Launch Pad, Moore Norman Tech, Better Business Bureau of Central Oklahoma, OKSBDC, and REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and PRIME programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

The Essentials of Great Product Photography
2021-02-11 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago)
Great product photography is essential for any artist or craftsman who needs to showcase their work through photos. Learning to take great photos helps build trust in your products by giving consumers a true representation of your work. Whether it’s to build your artist portfolio or sell your work online, you’ll benefit from expert product photography tips taught by Native photographer, Roxanne Best.
The Photography Workshop will take place over two 2-hour sessions. The first session will be on Thursday, February 11th at 11:00 am Pacific / 12:00 pm Mountain / 1:00 pm Central. There will be a session at the same time on Friday, February 12th. The workshop is free and open all entrepreneurs.
This workshop will be delivered online utilizing the Zoom platform. The workshop can be taken on computers and smartphones.
This workshop is being funded in part by the USDA Rural Development, the Small Business Administration, and the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

Get Your Local Business On Google Search and Maps
2021-02-11 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Chicago)
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 Business Profile on Google 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 your Business Profile to connect with potential customers

Presented by: Cheri Bales

Cheri Bales, M.A., is the owner of Hannah/Gold Communications LLC, and a Certified SCORE Kalamazoo/SW Michigan Mentor. She has more than 30 years of experience in marketing strategy with business and education and regularly helps small businesses select the right marketing mix, then implement and evaluate it.
She is a regular SCORE presenter and did 23 live marketing and social media webinars for SCORE between April and August 2020. She is a marketing strategist who helps small business owners break down the steps to marketing success.
Sponsored by: Grow with Google

BUSINESS START UP WORKSHOP
2021-02-12 10:30 - 11:30 (America/Chicago)
Topic: Start-up Assistance

Please join us as we review 13 questions to consider when starting a business. SBDC Advisors will discuss business start up walkthrough and business planning. Attendees will walk away with a business plan outline and handouts.
Speaker(s): Dana Hugle & Henry Lehr
Co-Sponsor(s): KTC
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.

Fee: No Cost

How to Research to Find New Customers
2021-02-16 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
To register, please visit: ntv.bz/research
In this webinar, Lynn Wilson, IDRS’ Microenterprise Development Specialist and marketing research guru will teach you to use a free library resource to find more customers for your business. Reference Solutions, a subscription database offered for free by many libraries, is used to conduct market research by providing instant access to comprehensive business and consumer listings.
The workshop will take place on Tuesday, February 16th at 5:00 pm Pacific / 6:00 pm Mountain / 7:00 pm Central. The workshop is free and open all entrepreneurs. This workshop will be delivered online utilizing the Zoom platform. The workshop can be taken on computers and smartphones.
This workshop is part of a monthly series produced by IDRS unlocking marketing research tools, tips, and tricks that potential entrepreneurs and small business owners can utilize in their planning to start and grow a business. This is a repeat of our Reference USA workshop from January
What is Reference Solutions?
Reference Solutions is a subscription database offered by most libraries in the U.S. which is used by many small businesses to conduct market research by providing instant access to comprehensive business and consumer listings.
How can I use it for my business?
With Reference Solutions, you can generate lists of potential customers to market your products or services to, based on demographic information such as gender and income. The database also allows you to segregate the list based on consumer lifestyles and purchasing habits, such as people who like to RV travel or people who purchase pet-related products. The database is ideal for identifying a target market for a product or service, studying the demographics of a community, researching consumer demand for new businesses, researching a community before opening a business, determining how many competitors are in your market and estimating the number of potential customers based on hobbies, interests, and other demographics.
Here is just one example of how the data base can be used.
Four Seasons Landscape and Lawn Care:
Cherokee business owner Clint Wilson has a lawn care and landscaping service in northeastern Oklahoma. Business has been good but he would like to expand and take on new customers. He has determined his best target market to be single women with plenty of disposable income living in nice homes. With the Reference Solutions database, Clint generated a list of single women living within a 40 miles radius of his community, own a home with a value of over $200,000 and household income over $100,000/year.
With the list he generated he can mail a brochure to prospective customers or stop by the person’s house to provide a business card. Using other tools in the database, he can determine if there are specific areas where potential customers are located so he can set out signs or even purchase billboard advertising in that area. He can also look up the addresses on Google earth so he can actually see the person’s yard. This will enable him to be prepared to give the owner some suggestions for landscape improvement and be better prepared to give a price quote when he talks to the customer.
About our presenter:
Lynn Wilson serves as the Microenterprise Development Specialist for the IDRS Acorn Project. She has championed small businesses and entrepreneurs for 16 years working with tribal communities across Indian Country including her own tribe where she continues to provide small business support services for the Tribes’ CDFI & Commerce division.
Lynn’s work has focused on entrepreneurial training, business counseling, economic and demographic and social research related to economic development. Since 2009 she has taught part-time for the School of Business and Technology at Rogers State University and the Institute of American Indian Arts. Prior to coming to IDRS, She served as the lead certification trainer for the Indianpreneurship Journey curriculum while on staff at ONABEN. Lynn received her M.B.A and Professional Certification in Entrepreneurship from Cameron University and is a certified market research specialist through the National Center for Economic Gardening. She lives in Claremore, OK with her husband Clint (also a Cherokee Citizen) and their two sons, Chandler and Quinton.
This workshop is being funded in part by the USDA Rural Development, the Small Business Administration, and the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

Virtual Training: Excel ~ Intermediate Formulas & Charting
2021-02-17 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Chicago)
Date/Time:
February 17th, 2021
Start Time: 10:00 am
End Time: 11:30 am

This session will cover useful techniques when working with formulas in Excel. Participants will also learn the basics of using Excel to display their data visually using charts.
We’ll have plenty of time for Q&A with the presenter at the end of the session!
Presenter: Chris Hennes, Pioneer Library System
Workshop provided by Pioneer Library System and REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Virtual Training: Quick Books Desktop: Downloading Bank Transactions
2021-02-17 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago)
Join us to hear from a certified Quickbooks pro advisor about:

downloading transactions from the bank into your Quickbooks desktop
how to identify and organize deposits, bills, and transfers
how to accept and deny transactions
setting up rules to save you time and energy

There will be plenty of time for discussion with the expert and an addition “tips and shortcuts” sheet provided at the conclusion of the virtual session.
Presenter: MJ Brienen, QuickBooks Pro Advisor
MJ Brienen is a seasoned professional focused on helping businesses in many stages of development to set-up, maintain, or fix their QuickBooks systems. She works to help uncover the secrets to QuickBooks® and how the program can be used most effectively by businesses. Brienen has a background in banking, sales, project management, and working with websites.
Workshop Provided by: Back Office Success and REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Discovering the Tools for Creating a Successful Business
2021-02-17 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Entrepreneurs are truly a special breed! It takes a specific set of skills and characteristics to be successful in entrepreneurial ventures. In this fun, dynamic, and interactive session being presented by Camille Koster, you’ll learn:

The secret success factors of the entrepreneurial mindset used by the world’s top entrepreneurs

Why the entrepreneurial mindset is the most important skill you need to make your business a success (yes, even more important than cash flow!)

How to use the entrepreneurial mindset to accelerate your business even when nothing else is

How to continually grow and sharpen your entrepreneurial mindset to reach new levels in your business (and life) sooner

This workshop is part of a series based on teachings from the book “Who Owns the Ice House?” by Clifton Taulbert. This is a repeat of our January Do You Have What It Takes webinar.
The workshop will take place on Wednesday, February 17th at 5:00 pm Pacific / 6:00 pm Mountain / 7:00 pm Central. The workshop is free and open all entrepreneurs.
This workshop will be delivered online utilizing the Zoom platform. The workshop can be taken on computers and smartphones.

Choose the Right E-Commerce Technology to Grow Your Small Business
2021-02-18 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Chicago)
There are three critical components to success for an online business – a product that consumers want, building a strong brand, and selecting the right technology at the right time. Evaluating and choosing the right technology can be overwhelming – especially as you’re starting up and growing fast.
Ryan Kelly, FedEx Vice President of Global E-Commerce Marketing, will break down the steps you need to take to navigate the options and highlight real examples of what technologies some small businesses are using to successfully grow their online business. Tune in to help make the best choices for your business and products.
You’ll learn about:

Multi-channel selling and the pros and cons of selling on your own online store versus marketplaces
The most important e-commerce platform capabilities to consider
Other types of technologies to help grow your business
When and how to upgrade or add technology solutions

Presented by Ryan P. Kelly

As Vice President of Global E-Commerce Marketing for FedEx Services, Ryan Kelly is responsible for the leadership and strategic direction of the enterprise’s global e-commerce vision. With more than 20 years in the financial and logistics sectors, Ryan has extensive experience in leading strategy, sales, marketing, product management, research, and communications teams.

This background has given him an inside view of the many vital parts of successfully launching and scaling a business. Combined with his “customer-first” approach, his expertise has helped him establish strategic relationships within the broader e-commerce ecosystem to aid small businesses.

His passion for helping businesses of all sizes – from start-ups to Fortune 100 companies – makes him a popular speaker on e-commerce, supply chain and logistics, and returns-related topics.

Sponsored by

Virtual Training: How To Do Business With The Government
2021-02-18 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Chicago)
Ever wondered if your business could sell to the federal government? Which federal agencies would be interested in what you sell? What does it take to become a federal contractor? Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTAC) provides marketing and technical assistance to businesses & industry clients interested in selling products and services to federal, state and local governments. The primary purpose of PTAC is to expand the economy in Oklahoma by providing specific, tangible resources to Oklahoma business and industry clients through job retention and growth.
Presenter: Ron DeGiacomo, OkPTAC Coordinator
Workshop provided by: Kiamichi Technolocy Center and REI Women’s Business Center
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Etsy Craft Entrepreneurship Online
2021-02-19 10:00 - 12:00, 2021-02-26 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
The IDRS Acorn Project is hosting a free live online workshop for artists and craftsmen who are interested in learning how to sell their goods through Etsy. Etsy is the leading global marketplace for selling handmade and vintage goods to more than 40 million customers. IDRS has created the Etsy Craft Entrepreneurship Workshop for Native artists/crafters that are looking to expand their customer base beyond the boundaries of their own community and sell to consumers world-wide.

The course is taught by award-winning Cherokee artist, MaryBeth Timothy. MaryBeth and her husband operate MoonHawk Art LLC, an art business located in Muskogee Oklahoma which specializes in Native American and wildlife art.
MaryBeth creates new original art and through sublimation printing, offers her and her husband’s images on a variety of items, such as ceramic decorative tiles, coffee mugs, cuff bracelets and t-shirts. While MaryBeth primarily sells through venues such as gift shops and art markets, she has been able to expand and reach a worldwide market through her Esty store.
The Etsy class will take place over four 2-hour sessions. The first session will be on Tuesday, February 2nd at 11:00 am Pacific / 12:00 pm Mountain / 1:00 pm Central. There will be a session at the same time on Wednesday, February 3rd; Thursday, February 4th; and Friday, February 5th. The workshop is free and open all entrepreneurs.
This workshop will be delivered online utilizing the Zoom platform. The workshop can be taken on computers and smartphones.
Course Agenda
Day 1
Introductions
Break
Course overview
Why sell on Etsy?
Day 2
Recap of session 1
Homework discussion
How to stand out on Etsy
What you need to do before opening your Etsy store
Break
Taking great product photos
Day 3
Recap of session 2
Homework discussion
How to list your items on Etsy
Break
Etsy search engine optimization
Indian Arts & Crafts Act
Pricing & fees
Etsy payment
Developing your store policies
Day 4
Recap of session 3
Homework discussion
Creating your store profile
Sales strategies
Break
Communicating with customers
Shipping products
Collecting sales tax
Promoting your store on Social media
How to set up coupons and special offers
Where to get help.

Improving Your Credit Score
2021-02-23 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Credit plays an important role in the development of your business. Whether seeking financing from a lender or even through credit cards, credit determines the availability of credit and the cost that you pay for access to those funds. In addition, some auto insurers and employers also base decisions on credit. In this webinar, learn what makes up your credit score, where you can find your credit report for free, and tips for improving your score.
This webinar is totally free!
Presented By: Mark Thompson. Mark serves as Executive Director for IDRS. He has an exceptionally strong background in business and business law. He has specific skills and background in financial accounting and controls, personnel management, information systems, accounting software, costs and income projections and analysis, bidding government contracts, and marketing.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Lynn Wilson at 918-978-7622.

Shoestring Solutions to Common Startup Issues
2021-02-23 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Chicago)
The idea of starting a business can be quite daunting, and especially in today’s times.
In this hands-on startup webinar, USA TODAY senior small business columnist and author of The Small Business Bible, Steve Strauss will help you understand what the most common startup pitfalls are and how to avoid or solve them – without spending a lot of money!
Topics of this session include:

Getting a website for free (or almost free!)
DIY legal and operations
Marketing on a shoestring
And more…

Steve is a one-of-a-kind presenter and we’re sure you will enjoy this lively, valuable startup webinar!

Presented by: Steve Strauss
.

Often called “America’s small business expert,” Steve Strauss is a best-selling author and USA TODAY columnist, as well as an attorney, thought leader, and the author of 17 books, including The Small Business Bible. His content and media appearances reach millions.
Steve regularly speaks around the country and around the world and he is often tapped to be a spokesperson for companies like Bank of America and Microsoft. He sits on advisory boards for the World Entrepreneurship Forum, SCORE and P&G. The Strauss Group creates exceptional content for Fortune 500 companies down to small chambers.
Steve’s latest venture is the tech startup, TheSelfEmployed.com. Steve has a combined 100,000 social fans/followers/likes. He also really dislikes ketchup.

Virtual Training: QuickBooks Online: Getting Started
2021-02-23 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Chicago)
Are you just getting started with QuickBooks Online? Join us for this informative virtual workshop as we share the benefits and downsides of the online version of QuickBooks. This workshop will help you to decide what subscription you may need, how to create a new company file, how to convert an existing QuickBooks Desktop file to the Online version, and how to use the Online dashboard features.
Instructor: Savanna Dixon, CPA
Workshop is provided by REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Better Ways To Manage Your Social Media Content
2021-02-24 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Chicago)
Do you have your content calendar and plan for social media marketing but you are still forgetting to post? Is it hard to make it back to log on to post everyday or maybe you have too many accounts to juggle? If you answered YES to any of the above questions then you don’t want to miss this webinar.
In this 60 minute webinar, you will learn how by using content management apps, you can to schedule your posts in advance. We will cover what features to look for in a content manager app and how much will it cost? Tune in to find out. Join social media expert, Roxanne Best, as she helps you manage your content so your social media channels never run dry!
The workshop will take place on Wednesday, February 24th at 12:00 pm Pacific / 1:00 pm Mountain / 2:00 pm Central. This workshop will be delivered online utilizing the Zoom platform. The workshop can be taken on computers and smartphones.
All Native entrepreneurs and community members are welcome. If you know of anybody that would be interested or could benefit from this webinar, please share it with them!

Roxanne Best (Colville) is a multi-talented and multi-disciplinary entrepreneur. Roxanne is a photographer and operates Roxtography in Omak, WA. She specializes in lifestyle portraits, special events, and business imagery. She is also a yoga instructor, culinary artist, storyteller, and small business consultant. She can be found at roxtography.com.

Virtual Training: Excel ~ Pivot Tables & Analyzing Your Data
2021-02-24 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Chicago)
Date/Time:
February 24th, 2021
Start Time: 10:00 am
End Time: 11:30 am

This session will introduce participants to working with and analyzing their data in Excel. Specifically, we’ll cover how to manage and analyze large amounts of information by working with Pivot Tables, Conditional Formatting, and Charting. The presenter will also share some additional ways to work with data, both on-screen and printed, and will demonstrate other features that can assist in interpreting your data.
We’ll have plenty of time for Q&A with the presenter at the end of the session!
Presenter: Chris Hennes, Pioneer Library System
Workshop provided by Pioneer Library System and REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Business PR Strategies
2021-02-24 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Chicago)
From garnering publicity to creating community initiatives, join for a session on business PR strategies.

About this Event

Future Proof is a program that assists businesses with identifying new markets, pivoting their business model, and developing and implementing a deep digital transformation plan. Join via Zoom link below.

Publicity is an incredible way to bring more attention and customers to your business. And it’s also a strategy that every single business owner can use regardless of their skill set or experience.

Unlike marketing, PR allows you to tap into audiences that are much larger than your own and allows you to create an instant connection to customers who are right for your brand.

In this online interactive Q&A, we’ll discuss how any business can start getting free publicity, and help you answer questions you have that are specific to generating publicity for your own business.

Join us for a short presentation on:
● How to get free publicity for your business
● How to create community initiatives to help build your brand
● How to create a community around your business

Followed by a Q&A
● We’ll discuss some of the unique challenges small business owners are facing and how to deal with them
● You will get the opportunity to have your questions answered by entrepreneurs who understand the challenges you’re going through

Sign up today to secure your spot and start growing your business.

Please register and complete the survey questions upon checkout. Please note that this session will be recorded. Join via Zoom link here at 2pm.

Expand to New Markets with Small Business International Shipping
2021-02-25 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago)
Many small-business owners want to speed up growth by selling and shipping to international customers, but don’t know where to start. Navigating the many processes and requirements may seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, international shipping can be simpler than you might think.
In this webinar, Stephen Smith, FedEx Marketing Director, discusses how to prepare for shipping internationally.
You’ll learn about:

How to choose and use International solutions, services, and resources
The basics of customs brokerage and clearance activities
Getting a rate, filling out documents, finding codes/customs documents/duties & taxes
Overcoming common obstacles and preventing delays

Presented by Stephen L. Smith

Stephen Smith is Marketing Director for FedEx Services, supporting FedEx Logistics (Supply Chain, Freight Forwarding and Customs Brokerage), Sensor Based Logistics and the enterprise Healthcare vertical.
During his 16-year FedEx career, he has gained a deep understanding of international shipping as Marketing Manager for FedEx International Deferred and Express products and roles on several international marketing teams.
Stephen has experience supporting multiple small businesses including his father’s 35-year air conditioning and heating company, and his wife Elizabeth’s small animal veterinary practice.

Sponsored by

Virtual Training: Use YouTube to Grow Your Business
2021-02-25 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago)
Date/Time:
February 25th, 2021
Start Time: 1:00 pm
End Time: 2:00 pm

Get best practices for creating a YouTube Channel and compelling video content that promotes your products and services and drives engagement with your brand.
In this workshop we’ll discuss best practices for:

Understanding different video formats
How to setup a YouTube channel
Making good creative, and how to target and measure the results

Presenter: Maria Elena Duron, Grow With Google Professional Trainer
Workshop provided by REI Women’s Business Center
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Business Basics: Human Capital Management
2021-03-02 08:30 - 10:30 (America/Chicago)
Date/Time:
March 2nd, 2021
Start Time: 8:30 am
End Time: 10:30 am

Are you tired of running your business alone? Do you have a job advertised and are only getting poor applicants? Do you know how much your employees really cost your business? In this workshop, we will examine the basics of hiring and managing employees.
We will cover:

knowing when it’s time to hire someone
how to craft a job description and the basics of interviewing
what you need to keep now that you have your first employee
compliance issues and necessary documentation for having employees
leading a strong team

Both new and existing small business owners will benefit from this workshop.100
Speakers from Francis Tuttle Launch Pad, Moore Norman Technology Center, OKSBDC and REI Women’s Business Center.
Partners: Francis Tuttle Launch Pad, Moore Norman Technology Center, Better Business Bureau of Central Oklahoma, OKSBDC and REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Reach More E-Commerce Customers with Expert Online Marketing Tips
2021-03-02 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago)
With so many consumers shopping online due to COVID-19, it’s crucial to know how to reach them in order to expand your customer base and sales.
Jason Blickhan, FedEx Sales Director, will share tips small-business owners can use to market their e-commerce stores online.
He’ll show you how to use online marketing to keep existing customers, reach new customers, and take advantage of the recent spike in online shopping to boost your long-term growth. Attend his webinar and walk away with practical tips for digital marketing.
You’ll learn about:

Building a marketing plan for your website, social channels, media, and more
Things to consider, such as budget, business needs, the audience, your Brand’s story and purpose
Improving your customer’s experience through engaging info about your company and products

Presented by Jason Blickhan

Jason Blickhan is a Sales Director of Field Sales for FedEx Services, leading the efforts of the Southern California sales organization to achieve superior results in top-line revenue and market share growth.
Customer-driven and an expert on e-commerce, Jason has served on the board of several committees within FedEx, including E-Commerce Development and Returns Management
Sponsored by

Virtual Training: QuickBooks Online: Creating Customers, Invoicing & More
2021-03-02 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Chicago)
This course is about how to use the basic QuickBooks Online Functions which you need to know in order to be proficient. You will learn how to navigate through QuickBooks Online, get useful shortcuts to help you work more quickly, create customers, create invoices, and receive payment for invoices, among other things.
Instructor: Savanna Dixon, CPA
Workshop is provided by REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.

Virtual Event: How To Write a Business Plan
2021-03-03 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Chicago)
This workshop will take you through the step-by-step process of developing a business plan. While eah business needs a unique plan, the basic elements are the same. You will receive a template to work from, and REI WBC representatives will be available to review your plan and make suggestions during the ongoing process.
Presenters: REI Women’s Business Center
This workshop is provided by REI Women’s Business Center.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. WBC and 7j programs and 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 Lori Smith, WBC Assistant at PO Box 1335, Durant, OK 74702 or call 800-658-2823.
