Network Kansas

HINU's 2nd Annual BIPOC Entrepreneur Summit Registration
2024-02-21 08:00 - 2024-02-22 17:00 (America/Chicago)

For Small Businesses: Tax Filing Season Readiness Webinar
2024-02-28 10:00 - 11:00
Sponsored by SBA St. Louis District Office
Presented by IRS Stakeholder Liaison
Topics will include:

Earned Income Tax Credit: Learn about how to claim this important refundable tax credit.
Other Tax Credits: Learn about other tax credits available and how to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for 2020 and 2021 if you haven’t filed returns for those years.
IRS Online Tools: Learn about IRS Online Account, Identity Protection PIN and more.
Get ready to file: Gather your tax documents now to make filing easier.
VITA Sites: Learn about free income tax preparation and assistance available at local sites.

Questions? Call us 314-539-6600 or email StLouis@sba.gov.
Eventbrite limiting registrations to 25 attendees, but there are plenty of slots available. Please add yourself to the waitlist and we’ll release your ticket OR email Thomas.Yochim@sba.gov and he’ll send you the Outlook invitation.

Business Resiliency Bootcamp
2024-03-01 08:00 - 15:30
The Kansas Small Business Development Center is offering a Business Resiliency Bootcamp in your area!
The three workshops will target strategies for financial management, thrifty marketing, and using AI tools.
Full Breakfast, Lunch and Afternoon Snack Included!

Women's Forum - Spring 2024
2024-03-07 08:00 - 11:00
Are you ready to “Invest In Her”? Investing in yourself is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity and should be a priority in every woman’s life. Join us at the spring Women’s Forum where Dr. Lindsay Roberts will kickstart the inspiration as our keynote speaker on empowering her voice! Dive into breakout sessions on mentorship and negotiations, fuel your curiosity with our Q&A panel, and stick around for some empowering networking. Did we mention breakfast is included? It is!
Doors open at 8 AM for breakfast, with programming starting at 8:30 AM.

Vital Topics in Business
2024-03-07 09:00 - 10:00
A monthly meet-up reviewing vital topics in business. Topics include digital marketing, business ideation, bootstrapping, side hustles, funding, and value propositions.

Topics:

The Startup Roadmap
Intro to Digital Marking
Side Hustle Success
Funding Steps to Success

This workshop will be held in-person at the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library in Topeka, KS. You can learn more about the library at https://tscpl.org/.

2024 Greater Kansas City Supplier Diversity Reverse Expo
2024-03-12 09:00 - 14:00
The Greater Kansas City Supplier Diversity Reverse Expo was created to assist diverse businesses getting connected with Federal agencies, State of Kansas, local Kansas county/municipal procurement, local educational institutions, local certifying entities, prime contractors and potential opportunities as well as provide our exhibitors leads for more diverse vendor pools.
Businesses will have the opportunity to meet with procurement professionals from public agencies and large prime contractors at one time AND in one location! The procurement professionals are in the booths while businesses roam freely through the expo hall, meeting with agency representatives, learning of upcoming opportunities, marketing their company’s products and services and networking with other business attendees.

The Importance of Working Capital for Sales Growth and Global Market Success
2024-03-13 14:00 - 15:00
Join us on March 13th, 3-4p ET for a roundtable of experts on financing as we discuss the importance of working capital and how effective utilization of working capital can facilitate profitability and growth as well as enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. small businesses.

This is free event is for businesses, banks, and counselors to gain a better understanding and appreciation of asset-based lending. You will hear from:

Brian Gordon: Senior Vice President, International Trade Finance, Commerce Bank
Daniel Pische: National Director of Trade Finance, U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of International Trade
John Addessi: Johnson County Community College Kansas Small Business Development Center

Utilization of and access to working capital is essential in today’s business world. It supports sustainable operations and growth for small businesses, both domestically and overseas.

Working capital expertise, especially at community banks, can be key for client attraction and retention.

Whether you are a business, a banker, or a small business service provider, tune in for this discussion and gain a greater appreciation of the significance and future of working capital for business growth.

Creative Change Coalition
2024-03-13 14:00 - 15:30
Thinking about murals in your community? Wondering where to start? Murals can bring beauty and meaning to places AND they also can bring people together, create conversation and build relationships.
Guest presenters Jane Golden, founder & Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia and Amber Hansen and Reyna Hernandez of Mural On The Wall (OTW) based in Vermillion, SD, will share strategies and practical guidance for organizations considering working on mural projects.
This session will cover practical considerations including finding partners, budgeting, and building lasting community engagement and participation. Following the presentations, there will be breakout rooms where you can dive deeper with the presenters on specific topics. At the end of the workshop, for participants interested in continuing to connect with colleagues across the country, we will host an optional Open Hangout time.

Business Resiliency Bootcamp
2024-03-14 08:00 - 15:30
The Kansas Small Business Development Center is offering a Business Resiliency Bootcamp in your area!
The three workshops will target strategies for financial management, thrifty marketing, and using AI tools.
Light Breakfast, Lunch and Afternoon Snack included!

Business Resiliency Bootcamp
2024-03-18 08:00 - 15:30, 2024-03-20 08:00 - 15:30
The Kansas Small Business Development Center is offering a Business Resiliency Bootcamp in your area! Don’t miss out!
The three workshops will target strategies for financial management, thrifty marketing, and using AI tools.
Light Breakfast and Lunch included!

Understanding the Basics of Digital Marketing
2024-03-20 09:00 - 10:30
During this interactive workshop you will learn the basic fundamentals of digital marketing such as social media, search engine strategies, branding and paid media. You will also be given a worksheet to help you develop and build your marketing strategy that is unique to your orgagnization. Following the workshop we will allow ample time for questions from participants.

Business Resiliency Bootcamp
2024-03-22 08:00 - 15:30
The Kansas Small Business Development Center is offering a Business Resiliency Bootcamp in your area! Don’t miss out!
The three workshops will target strategies for financial management, thrifty marketing, and using AI tools.
Light Breakfast and Lunch included

NSF Startup Funding Webinar
2024-03-27 10:00 - 11:00
Learn about best practices and strategies to help you craft a
compelling National Science Foundation (NSF) Project Pitch.
This workshop will include tips to help you meet requirements
of the Project Pitch’s four key elements: Technology
Innovation, Technical Objectives and Challenges, Market
Opportunity, and The Company and Team.
In addition, you will have the opportunity to connect with NSF
Program Director and ask direct questions about the NSF SBIR
program. There will be 10 minute One-on-One sessions after
the presentation for additional questions and answers to
anyone interested.

Remote Work Wednesday: Remote Work and Mental Health
2024-04-03 12:00 - 13:00
K-State Research and Extension State Specialist, Dr. Elaine Johannes, will present strategies to guard against mental health challenges related to remote work.

Kansas Business Expo
2024-04-04 09:00 - 16:00
Exciting News for 2024! We’re thrilled to introduce a groundbreaking initiative that merges two powerhouse events, the Kansas Minority Business Summit and the Kansas Workforce Development & Education Summit. This dynamic fusion creates an unparalleled synergy of insights, resources, and networking opportunities, forming a dream team of information essential for businesses throughout Kansas.

Delve into the Kansas Minority Business Summit, a gathering designed to unite minority business owners and entrepreneurs from across the state. This summit is dedicated to providing a wealth of resources, invaluable information, and networking opportunities tailored to foster the growth and prosperity of their enterprises.

Alternatively, the new Expo gives KMBS attendees access to explore the Kansas Workforce Development & Education Summit, a concentrated effort to address the workforce challenges confronting many Kansas businesses. This summit brings together a diverse spectrum of professionals, including business owners, human resources experts, educators, and policy makers. Their collective aim is to scrutinize the state’s workforce needs and collaboratively identify opportunities to address them.

Indecisive about which summit to attend, or perhaps your schedule only allows for one? Fear not! Now, you have the unique opportunity to attend both summits at a single, convenient location. Bring along key members of your team to divide and conquer, ensuring that you won’t miss a single enlightening moment. Join us as we elevate the business landscape in Kansas with this exceptional combination of knowledge and networking.

Chamber Issue Forum featuring Mayor Lily Wu
2024-04-11 12:00 - 13:30
The Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce will host a moderated conversation with Wichita Mayor Lily Wu on April 11 at DoubleTree by Hilton Wichita Airport. Decisions made in City Hall have an impact on your business. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear the Mayor discuss issues that shame our local economy.

Non Profit 101
2024-04-11 18:00 - 19:30
April 11 | 6PM-7:30PM
Washburn University School of Law
Room 150
2073 SW Washburn Terrace E Topeka, KS 66621

During this workshop we will discuss the formation process and tax exemption topics including State and Federal level filings. We will also discuss governance areas such as Bylaws, policies and procedures you should have in place for your organization.
Law students from Washburn University will
present during this workshop.

April Simply Social
2024-04-16 16:00 - 18:00
Get together with other WIBA members for an afternoon of networking and socializing. Register early and join us at the Kansas Humane Society, there will also be tours of the facility and some special visits from the residents.
We would love to help the animals they have there. The top 3 items they are in need of are: soft treats, spray cheese and Churu for cats. So please grab a pack to bring with you!

Unleash the Power of Your Credit
2024-04-18 10:00 - 11:00
Are you a passionate entrepreneur but lack established business credit? Don’t let that hold you back! This session equips you with knowledge and strategies to leverage your personal credit history and build a solid foundation for your business finances.
Date: Thursday, April 18
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 am
Cost: None
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at 12:00 pm on April 17, 2024

Small Business, Big Protection: The Role of LLCs and Operating Agreements
2024-04-18 18:00 - 19:30
Join us for an enlightening workshop that delves into the pivotal role of Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and the critical importance of Operating Agreements. In this comprehensive session, participants will gain a deep understanding of how LLCs can serve as a versatile and advantageous business structure, offering both liability protection and flexibility.

Entrepreneurial Financial Literacy Month
2024-04-21 14:30 - 16:30
Are you ready to take charge of your finances and elevate your business to the next level? Don’t miss our upcoming roundtable event titled Entrepreneurial Financial Literacy Month, hosted by Dr. Donnetta Watson, the founder of The Black Mastermind Group.

Event Details:

Title: Entrepreneurial Financial Literacy Month Roundtable
Date: April 21, 2024
Time: 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm Central Time
Location: Kansas City, Kansas

At this engaging session, we’ll break down the complexities of financial literacy into practical, actionable insights tailored specifically for black business owners like you. Don’t let the jargon intimidate you—understanding your money is essential for your business’s success.

It’s time to have these crucial conversations. As entrepreneurs, we often feel pressured to keep our financial challenges private. However, sharing and learning from each other’s experiences can be transformative.

Come join us for an empowering discussion that will equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate your business finances confidently. Secure your seat today! To register Click Here.

Let’s empower ourselves and our businesses together!

April Coffee & Conversation
2024-04-25 07:30 - 09:00
Join us bright and early for breakfast and conversation. It is a great way to start your day. Let’s meet at 7:30 am with fellow WIBA members as we have coffee and network, then get seated for breakfast and continue valuable conversations.
This month we will hear from WIBA member, Jenny Bowers with Super Pools, as she tells of her personal and professional journey.

2nd Annual Douglas County Pitch Competition
2024-04-25 09:00 - 16:00

WIBA Government Affairs Committee Meeting
2024-04-25 16:00 - 17:00
Held at 4pm in the WIBA Conference Room on the 4th Thursday of the month.
WIBA members discuss current situations that could affect businesses. By knowing the issues we face, businesses have the opportunity to expand services and gain market share while saving money and being more frugal when needed. They try to keep an eye on things and report back each month with updates and insights.

Shocker New Venture Competition Tradeshow
2024-04-26 10:30 - 13:10
Immerse yourself in innovation as up to 16 teams of talented WSU students showcase their entrepreneurial spirit. Each competing team will have interactive booths, giving you the opportunity to explore groundbreaking business ideas.
Your presence matters, come and support the next generation of entrepreneurs as they take their visions to the next level!

Shocker New Venture Competition Finals
2024-04-26 10:30 - 13:10
Step into the future of entrepreneurship at the Shocker New Venture Competition Finals. With up to 6 teams of WSU students competing, this event promises a thrilling showcase of innovative business pitches.
Be part of the excitement as the finals unfold, leading to the presentation of awards. Join us for an afternoon of inspiration, discovery, and the celebration of aspiring entrepreneurs on their journey to bring groundbreaking ideas to the marketplace!

Support WSU's Aspiring Entrepreneurs at the Shocker New Venture Competition
2024-04-26 10:30 - 16:30
The day kicks off at 10:30 am with the Trade Show, where students will showcase their startup ideas in innovative booths until 1:00 pm.
Enjoy a complimentary lunch and gain valuable insights from a successful entrepreneur during the keynote speech from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
Then, from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm, witness the excitement as students present their final pitches and compete for $25,000 in prizes.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the entrepreneurial journey – save the date for April 26th!

Business Solutions Seminar
2024-04-30 08:30 - 10:30
Business Resilience: Proactive Strategies to Move Your Business Forward in the Current Environment
WIBA Business Solutions Seminar events are designed to help businesses learn and grow based on the feedback we receive from members.
These learning events are free and open to members and guests!
We will begin check-in at 8:30 am with networking, coffee and a light breakfast.
Hear from a panel of experts on practical strategies to enhance business resilience. Learn how to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

Life of an Entrepreneur Speaker Series
2024-04-30 14:00 - 17:00
Are you struggling with failure? Conni’s got you covered!
Join us for an inspiring event series on turning failures into stepping stones for success!
In the journey of entrepreneurship, setbacks are inevitable. But what if we told you that failures can be your greatest teachers? Join us for an enriching discussion led by Conni Mansaw, founder of CM Consulting and Development Services, as we explore how to transform failures into valuable learning opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
Learn strategies for analyzing failures as opportunities for growth
Discover how setbacks can fuel your journey towards success
Network with fellow entrepreneurs and share insights
This event is FREE and open to the public!
Register now to secure your spot at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeafQiKhx-JEmgUF3EBx11yfnIJoq7at-jkmKN-HVMREaRoWQ/viewform
About Conni Mansaw: With a passion for leadership development and community empowerment, she is a seasoned communicator and team-building coach. Through her leadership training organization, she has helped individuals and organizations thrive by embracing growth through adversity.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs! #EmbraceFailureWithConni #Entrepreneurship #SuccessMindset #LearnAndGrow
