Workshop: Strengthen & Scale: Practical Tools to Grow Your Business (CATALYST)

George Kimble with the Maricopa Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will guide participants through the robust support services available to small business owners. Learn how SBDC provides one-on-one, no-fee, and confidential business counseling; assistance with business planning; access to capital; financial reviews; sales and marketing strategy; and more. Participants will also discover the no- or low-cost training programs, tools, and resources SBDC offers to help businesses at every stage of growth. Plus, get an inside look at their signature “4-Legged Stool” concept and how it supports long-term business success.










Jän Simon with Robertson Ryan & Associates / Foundation Insurance Services will help demystify the often-confusing world of business insurance. Gain a clear understanding of what coverage your business may require—from general liability and workers’ compensation to commercial auto, professional licenses, and bonds. Jän will walk you through the essentials, outline common gaps, and equip you with the key questions every business owner should be asking to ensure you are fully and consistently protected.












Heather Parker with The Parker Law Office will explore the essential legal considerations every business owner should understand—whether you’re just starting out, currently operating, or navigating changes within your business. She will cover key topics such as choosing the right business structure (LLC, Corporation, etc.), understanding and using agreements and contracts effectively, and recognizing situations where consulting an attorney is in your best interest. Through practical guidance and real-world examples, Heather will walk participants through legal best practices to help strengthen, protect, and confidently grow their business.






Geoffrey Cummings and Brennan Wemmer with National Bank of Arizona will provide a clear and practical understanding of SBA Loan Essentials. Since accessing capital is often one of the biggest challenges for small business owners, SBA loans can offer a powerful solution.
Hear directly from the experts as they explain how SBA loans work, what is required to apply, how they differ from traditional lending, and why they can be a strategic tool for helping small businesses grow and reach the next level.






DeDe Jacques with Account on DeDe shares essential tips and strategies for small business bookkeeping and taxes. Learn practical steps to stay compliant, organized, and stress-free—because what you don’t know can cost you later. DeDe will provide insights on what to watch for, how to keep your finances simple and consistent, how to plan effectively, and when investing in an accountant can be a smart decision for your business.














Stuart “Zero” Preston with Cingularis will present 7 Steps to Smarter Marketing with a Little Help from AI, providing a strong foundation for a marketing strategy designed for success. Stuart will guide participants through choosing the best platforms, defining your brand and target customers, promoting your business consistently, and understanding the value of customer feedback. Learn how to make your website work harder for your business and discover practical ways AI can help streamline your marketing efforts and lighten your workload.










Ashlee Hanover with Desert Financial will close out the day with “To Mingle or Not to Mingle: Best Practices for Personal vs. Business Finances.” Managing personal and business finances separately can often be confusing for small business owners and, if mishandled, can create complicated situations. Ashlee will help clarify the distinctions, provide practical guidance, and walk participants through best practices to confidently manage both personal and business finances for long-term success.









Must meet minimum registration requirements

This workshop is made possible, in part, by these Foundation Donors: