Austin Small Business Connections Conference
About this Event
Austin Small and Minority Business Resources, in partnership with Austin Economic Development and Austin Financial Services, invites you to the 4th Annual Small Business Connections Conference on Wednesday, August 19, from 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. at the Palmer Events Center.
This no-cost, full-day conference brings together Austin's small business community for a day of learning, networking and resource-sharing. Whether you're an established business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur or somewhere in between, you'll connect with the people, programs and tools you need to grow and thrive.
This year's theme, Small Business Strong, celebrates the resilience, creativity and economic impact of Austin's small businesses. From neighborhood storefronts to home-based startups, small businesses are the backbone of our local economy and this conference is designed to help them remain vibrant, resilient and STRONG.
What to Expect
- Expert-led sessions on access to capital, marketing, contracting with the City, navigating permits and licenses and building business resilience
- A resource expo featuring City departments, local lenders, chambers of commerce and nonprofit business support organizations
- Networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs and small business owners from across Austin
- One-on-one connections with representatives from Small & Minority Business Resources, Economic Development and Financial Services
Who Should Attend
- Current small business owners
- Aspiring entrepreneurs
- Freelancers and independent contractors
- Nonprofit leaders
- Anyone interested in starting or growing a business in Austin
Event Details
- Date: Wednesday, Aug. 19
- Time: 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
- Location: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704
- Cost: Free and open to the public
- Parking: Validated
- Registration: Required via Eventbrite
Agenda
?: 08:00 AM - 02:30 PM
Sign in/Registration
?: 09:00 AM
(Elevator) Pitch, Perfect
Info: Can you explain what your business does in 30 seconds? A strong elevator pitch opens doors at every networking table you sit down at. Start your morning at the 4th Annual Small Business Connections Conference with a session built to sharpen yours. 9–9:30 a.m., first floor.
?: 09:00 AM - 09:45 AM
Coffee Connections Networking Hour
Info: Coffee Connections is an open networking hour built for real conversation, with no formal program and no pitch required. Grab a seat, meet a fellow Austin business owner and trade the kind of advice that only comes from someone doing the same work. Staff will be on hand to make introductions and point you toward the right resources.
?: 10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Welcome
Info: It starts here. Edward Campos of Austin Small and Minority Business Resources, James Scarboro of Austin Financial Services and leadership from Austin Economic Development open the 4th Annual Small Business Connections Conference.
?: 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM
Upcoming Projects and Opportunities
Info: Want to know what the City is building next? Austin Capital Delivery Services, Austin Financial Services and more walk through upcoming City of Austin projects and the purchasing opportunities that come with them.
?: 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Lunch Break and Networking
Info: Lunch is included, served by two local food trucks: I Juan Tacos and Stack City BBQ. Tacos, barbecue sandwiches and a vegetarian option. Two small businesses feeding a room full of small businesses.
?: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Connections Breakouts - Second Floor
Connection 1: Small Business Funding
Info: Accessing funding can be challenging. From microloans to business lines of credit to traditional business loans, the choices can be overwhelming. Presenters will share what lenders evaluate, discuss funding options, and answer your questions.
Connection 2: Procurement 101
Info: Throughout the year, the City of Austin buys all manner of goods and services. No matter your type of business, this sessions will help you understand how to do business with the City as a vendor and stay updated on upcoming opportunities.
Connection 3: Increase Your Sales NOW!
Info: Learn how to identify and organize your products or services by category, better understand your ideal customer, find the right audience, and create opportunities to sell more. Walk away with tools to improve your sales approach and start growing your business with confidence.
Connection 4: Certification 101
Info: Learn how to get certified as a Minority, Women-Owned, or Small Business and access contracting opportunities with the City of Austin. Discover certifications that can open doors to new opportunities for you and your business.
Connection 5: Build an Ecosystem: Diversifying Revenue
Info: Revenue diversification and strategic partnerships aren't separate business strategies—they're two sides of the same growth strategy. Through practical examples and real-world stories, discover how collaborating with organizations and businesses that already serve your ideal customers can help you grow smarter, reduce risk, and build a resilient business ecosystem.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
