Nevada SBDC

102 Website Review and Refresh
2025-04-15 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
102 is the website review, refresh, and what other ways to generate revenue through a website once your business is established.
You’ve built a business that works and now it’s time for the website to do more for you…what more do I need it to do?

Moving from a first version to an updated version – what do I need to consider before I do this?
Does your site pay for itself or is it a money hole? If its a money hole, how do we solve that problem?
Is the website the center of your lead generation or something else?
What are some common ways to update a site to make it look clean and modern? A 21st century design style?
What are you asking clients to do? Is it clear? Obvious? Simple? Central? Repeated?
Live Group Activity – What does your current website communicate to people that are not you?

Ryan Pramberg, Alexander Newby, and Rob Benson – this team of serial entrepreneurs have had their hands in non-profits, kickstarters, web design and development, and financial advising. We believe that the best strategy is to “show, not tell” as we build beautiful websites that convert for your business.

AI Pitch Competition
2025-04-16 16:00 - 20:00 | UNLV Black Fire Innovation, 8400 W. Sunset Rd., Las Vegas, NV, 89113, United States
Pitch Your AI Innovation & Win Up to $35K in Amazon Web Services (AWS) Partner Funding
Sponsored by AWS & PREDICTif Solutions | Hosted by SBDC Nevada
The Nevada Small Business Development Center (SBDC), in partnership with AWS and PREDICTif Solutions, invites small businesses to compete in an exclusive AI Pitch Competition on April 16, 2025, in Las Vegas.
This is your opportunity to showcase your AI vision in front of AWS leaders and industry experts, with a chance to win up to $35K in AWS partner funding to bring your project to life.
What’s at Stake?

Total funding of up to $35K to fuel your AI project

How It Works

Apply to Pitch– Up to 10 businesses will be selected. After submitting your RSVP, you’ll receive a confirmation if your application is chosen.
Public Pitch Format– Each company will pitch on stage in front of a live audience and expert panel. Each pitch will be 10 minutes, followed by a brief Q&A. Visual aids like PowerPoint may be used to support the presentation.
AI Use Case Requirement– Applicants must submit a 300-500 word synopsis outlining how they propose to use AI in their business. The more detailed and strategic, the better your chances of being selected.
Networking Opportunity– After the competition, engage with AWS and PREDICTif Solutions leaders to explore AI-driven business opportunities.

Who Should Apply?
This competition is ideal for small businesses that:

Are integrating AI-driven innovationinto their operations.
Need funding, resources, and expert supportto scale their AI vision.
Want to connect with AI and AWS industry leadersto refine and implement AI strategies.

Why Participate?

Secure funding & expert guidanceto implement AI in your business.
Exclusive opportunity to pitch directly to AWS & AI leaders.
Gain tailored feedback, high-value pitch setting.
Network with AWS and PREDICTif experts to explore AI-powered business growth.

About the Hosts & Sponsors

AWS(Amazon Web Services) is a global leader in cloud computing and AI innovation.
PREDICTif Solutionsis an AWS Advanced Tier Partner with 17+ years of experience in AI/ML, Generative AI, Data Analytics, and AWS cloud solutions.
Nevada SBDCprovides expert business guidance, training, and resources to help small businesses start, grow, and thrive.

How to Apply
Submit your RSVP through the form on this page.
Only selected applicants will receive confirmation to pitch.

Application Deadline:April 10, 2025
Competition Date:April 16, 2025
Location:Black Fire Innovation 8400 W Sunset Rd Suite 400, Las Vegas, NV 89113

Ready to showcase your AI innovation? Apply now!

Name(Required)

First

Last

Email(Required)

Enter Email

Confirm Email

Phone(Required)300 - 500 word synopsis

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Construction 1.0 Workshop
2025-04-16 17:00 - 18:30 | 8400 W. Sunset Rd #300, 8400 W Sunset Rd #300, Las Vegas, NV, 89113, United States
Join us, in collaboration with UNLV’s Office of Economic Development, and the Nevada State Contractors Board, for a dynamic, in-person, 6-week course designed to guide you through the construction industry. Gain essential insights into crucial construction business topics and receive a step-by-step walkthrough of the Nevada State Contractors Board application process. This course offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals, access expert support, and utilize resources to help you secure your contractor’s license. Don’t miss out on this chance to build a successful future in construction!
With over 25 years of experience in finance and banking, I have spent several years supporting entrepreneurs, particularly in the construction industry, as they establish and expand their businesses. My deep industry knowledge, combined with proficiency in Spanish and strong communication skills, allows me to provide expert guidance on business formation and operations. Passionate about addressing the misinformation often faced by small businesses, I am committed to educating entrepreneurs on effective strategies for success.

Session #1
2025-04-16
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #2
2025-04-23
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #3
2025-04-30
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #4
2025-05-07
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #5
2025-05-14
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #6
2025-05-21
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

How to Tell Your Story to Any Lender or Investor
2025-04-17 10:00 - 11:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
If you are thinking about or are in the process of taking out a loan for your business, considering or actively seeking investors to help grow, scale, and sustain your business, tried to secure loans, financing, and funding in the past without success, want to learn how your story can help you access capital . . . then this webinar is for you!
During this webinar, instructors Brandy M. Miller, Co-Founder of Path To Connections and award-winning copywriter and content creator, and Joylynn M. Ross, national bestselling author, Business Subject Matter Expert, and CEO of Path To Publishing, will introduce you to their universal Storytelling Framework in a fun, engaging, and entertaining method that will teach you:
HOW to tell your story to get lenders and investors leaning in, eager to listen
MISTAKES business owners make in sharing their story that keep lenders and investors from saying “YES!” to them
WHAT lenders and investors need from your story to be able to say “YES!” to you
WHY the lenders and investors NEED those things to be able to say “YES!”
HOW to relay your financial health through storytelling
Even more important than what you’re asking for is how you ask for it. Storytelling Experts Joylynn and Brandy will teach you how to use your story to increase your chances of securing your next loan or investment. Register for this webinar today.
BONUS – These speakers were just announced SBA Microenterprise Small Business of the Year! Come learn from award winning storytellers!

Construction 2.0 Workshop
2025-04-17 17:00 - 18:30 | 8400 W. Sunset Rd #300, 8400 W Sunset Rd #300, Las Vegas, NV, 89113, United States
Join us, in collaboration with UNLV’s Office of Economic Development, and the Nevada State Contractors Board, for an empowering 6-week, in-person course dedicated to construction marketing! This program covers essential strategies for winning contracts, establishing a strong marketing foundation, and creating impactful capability statements. Learn directly from seasoned professionals, connect with experienced contractors, and benefit from expert guidance from business advisors. Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your skills, expand your network, and gain the tools to elevate your contracting business!
With over 25 years of experience in finance and banking, I have spent several years supporting entrepreneurs, particularly in the construction industry, as they establish and expand their businesses. My deep industry knowledge, combined with proficiency in Spanish and strong communication skills, allows me to provide expert guidance on business formation and operations. Passionate about addressing the misinformation often faced by small businesses, I am committed to educating entrepreneurs on effective strategies for success.

Session #1
2025-04-17
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #2
2025-04-24
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #3
2025-05-01
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #4
2025-05-08
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #5
2025-05-15
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #6
2025-05-22
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Lending and Loan Tips for The Small Businesses Serving Rural Communities in Nevada
2025-04-29 12:00 - 13:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
For the small business owner who is seeking financing to launch, sustain, grow, and diversify their small business in rural Nevada. What are your lending options? How do you source them? What do you need to engage with them? These questions and more will be addressed in this webinar and follow-up discussion on best lending practices for the rural communities.
Speaker: Kathy Halbardier, Nevada SBDC Rural Business Advisor

Revamp Your Business Website for Success
2025-05-13 12:00 - 13:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
Join Jhonny Perez, owner of Burger Tech, a local digital marketing agency, to enhance your website’s performance, effectiveness, and online visibility. Your website acts as your digital storefront, and this webinar will guide entrepreneurs and small business owners in making it more appealing and functional.
Is your website outdated? Neglecting it can lead to functionality and security issues. Discover how to address common problems caused by neglect in this workshop.
Not getting the results you expected from your website? Effective planning is crucial. Learn essential elements every business website needs to convert visitors into clients.
Additionally, improve your website’s search engine ranking with beginner-friendly SEO tips. No technical jargon, just practical advice to boost your website’s SEO.
Jhonny Perez, a Las Vegas native, is the proud owner of Burger Tech (https://burger.tech/), a local web design and digital marketing agency. His journey began not only at a computer programming terminal but also behind an office desk, where he provided financial support to small businesses. Blending his technical expertise with a passion for small enterprises, Jhonny founded Burger Tech. Today, he finds joy in enhancing businesses’ online presence through services ranging from website design to SEO and various other forms of digital marketing. He remains dedicated to harnessing cutting-edge technologies to empower entrepreneurs in maximizing their online impact.
In collaboration with the Henderson Chamber of Commerce and Launchpad.

Credit 101: Building Strong Credit for Personal and Business Success
2025-05-14 13:00 - 14:30 | Innevation Center, 450 Sinclair Street, Reno, NV, 89501, United States
Understanding credit is essential for both personal financial health and business growth. Join us for Credit 101, an interactive panel event designed to demystify credit, empower you with practical strategies, and answer your most pressing questions.
Our expert panelists will walk you through:

The foundations of credit, including the 5 Cs of credit and updates to the credit scoring system
Personal credit: how to build it, repair it, and leverage it for business success
Business credit: why it matters, how it works, and how to establish and maintain it
The interconnectedness of personal and business credit
Real-world insights on common credit challenges, rejections, success stories, and strategies for making credit work for you

Moderator: Kelli Kelly
Panelists: Cydney Reid, Dereck Barrett, Josh Dunlap
Location: UNR Innevation Center – Concept Café
Refreshments Provided: Coffee, tea, and water
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring business owner, or simply want to better understand your financial tools, this session will equip you with the knowledge to take control of your credit future.
**Your information will be shared with the University of Nevada, Reno Innevation Center and U.S. Bank for this event.**

Where's the Contract? How to Do Business with General Services Administration (GSA) (Federal government level)
2025-05-15 10:00 - 11:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
A Nevada APEX Accelerator overview will be shared, plus learn about doing business with GSA so you can sell commercial products and services to the Federal government.
Presented by Jeremiah Mesquita, Government Contracts Advisor, Nevada APEX Accelerator, and GSA representatives
“Where’s The Contract?” is a no-charge monthly training program designed to put Nevada businesses on the path to securing government contracts and subcontracts and diversifying revenue sources.
Regarding the APEX Accelerator [formerly known as the Nevada Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC)] (note: see the updated webpage at https://goed.nv.gov/programs-incentives/procurement-assistance-outreach/ to become a client and follow us on the updated LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com): This APEX Accelerator is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense.
Regarding the Nevada SBDC: The Nevada SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with mental or physical disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the Nevada SBDC State Office at (800) 240-7094 to make arrangements. SBA cannot endorse any products, opinions or services of any external parties or activities.
This webinar is co-sponsored by two separate organizations, i.e., the APEX Accelerator and the Nevada SBDC.

Where's the Contract? Nevada APEX Accelerator overview, plus U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA's) overviews of the Working Capital Pilot Program and the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative
2025-06-03 14:00 - 15:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
A Nevada APEX Accelerator overview will be shared, plus learn about the SBA’s Working Capital Pilot Program that is designed to meet the needs of small businesses, and the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative that restores American economic dominance and national security by empowering small manufacturers.
Presented by Jim Hamoy, Government Contracts Advisor, Nevada APEX Accelerator, and SBA representatives
“Where’s The Contract?” is a no-charge monthly training program designed to put Nevada businesses on the path to securing government contracts and subcontracts and diversifying revenue sources.
Regarding the APEX Accelerator [formerly known as the Nevada Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC)] (note: see the updated webpage at https://goed.nv.gov/programs-incentives/procurement-assistance-outreach/ to become a client and follow us on the updated LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com): This APEX Accelerator is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense.
Regarding the Nevada SBDC: The Nevada SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.All services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with mental or physical disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the Nevada SBDC State Office at (800) 240-7094 to make arrangements. SBA cannot endorse any products, opinions or services of any external parties or activities.
This webinar is co-sponsored by two separate organizations, i.e., the APEX Accelerator and the Nevada SBDC.

Securing Funding with Your Story: What You Want to Say vs. What Needs to Be Heard
2025-06-11 10:00 - 11:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
There is so much you want to say when completing applications to secure funding, grants, loans, donations, sponsorships, and other opportunities. But knowing what you want to say versus what needs to be said – what needs to be heard by the listener – are two different things. And it could be the difference in whether you secure the funding.

This may very well be the most clear, concise, and succinct webinar you’ll ever attend on how to relay your story in the most clear, concise, and succinct way . . . in order to secure funding to help scale and grow your business, or build and sustain your non-profit.

In this webinar, taught by Business Subject Matter & Storytelling Expert, Joylynn M. Ross, of Path To Publishing and Path To Connections (awarded SBA Microenterprise Business of the Year 2025 for the Nevada District), you’ll walk away with all the storytelling ingredients that make up the recipe for funding success!

DIY Your Brand Video With AI (No Tech Skills Needed!)
2025-06-14 10:00 - 11:00 | 8400 W. Sunset Rd #300, 8400 W Sunset Rd #300, Las Vegas, NV, 89113, United States
You don’t need a camera crew or editing skills to create a high-impact brand video. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn how to use AI to script, narrate, and produce a professional-looking video that captures attention, builds trust, and converts viewers into customers.
This is perfect for small business owners, startups, and entrepreneurs who want a polished video on their website or social media—without the overwhelm.
You’ll learn how to:

Write a clear and compelling message with AI
Turn your script into a pro voiceover
Generate a full video with visuals, captions, and branding
Make your video feel on-brand and high-converting
Repurpose it across your website, social media, and email

Where's the Contract? Resources for Veteran-Owned Businesses
2025-06-18 14:00 - 15:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
A Nevada APEX Accelerator overview will be shared, plus learn valuable information that veteran-owned businesses will want to know in relation to selling goods and/or services to the public sector.
Presented by Jim Hamoy, Government Contracts Advisor and Emerging Small Business Coordinator, Nevada APEX Accelerator
“Where’s The Contract?” is a no-charge monthly training program designed to put Nevada businesses on the path to securing government contracts and subcontracts and diversifying revenue sources.
Regarding the APEX Accelerator [formerly known as the Nevada Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC)] (note: see the updated webpage at https://goed.nv.gov/programs-incentives/procurement-assistance-outreach/ to become a client and follow us on the updated LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com): This APEX Accelerator is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense.
Regarding the Nevada SBDC: The Nevada SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.All services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with mental or physical disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the Nevada SBDC State Office at (800) 240-7094 to make arrangements. SBA cannot endorse any products, opinions or services of any external parties or activities.
This webinar is co-sponsored by two separate organizations, i.e., the APEX Accelerator and the Nevada SBDC.

Construction 1.0
2025-06-24 17:00 - 18:30 | Innevation Center, 450 Sinclair Street, Reno, NV, 89501, United States
Join the Nevada SBDC, in collaboration with UNLV’s Office of Economic Development, and the Nevada State Contractors Board, for a dynamic, in-person, 6-week course designed to guide you through the construction industry. Gain essential insights into crucial construction business topics and receive a step-by-step walkthrough of the Nevada State Contractors Board application process. This course offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals, access expert support, and utilize resources to help you secure your contractor’s license. Don’t miss out on this chance to build a successful future in construction!

With over 25 years of experience in finance and banking, I have spent several years supporting entrepreneurs, particularly in the construction industry, as they establish and expand their businesses. My deep industry knowledge, combined with proficiency in Spanish and strong communication skills, allows me to provide expert guidance on business formation and operations. Passionate about addressing the misinformation often faced by small businesses, I am committed to educating entrepreneurs on effective strategies for success.

Session #1
2025-06-24
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #2
2025-07-01
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #3
2025-07-08
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #4
2025-07-15
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #5
2025-07-22
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #6
2025-07-29
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Construction 2.0 Workshop
2025-06-25 17:00 - 18:30
Join the Nevada SBDC, in collaboration with UNLV’s Office of Economic Development, and the Nevada State Contractors Board, for an empowering 6-week, in-person course dedicated to construction marketing! This program covers essential strategies for winning contracts, establishing a strong marketing foundation, and creating impactful capability statements. Learn directly from seasoned professionals, connect with experienced contractors, and benefit from expert guidance from business advisors. Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your skills, expand your network, and gain the tools to elevate your contracting business!
With over 25 years of experience in finance and banking, I have spent several years supporting entrepreneurs, particularly in the construction industry, as they establish and expand their businesses. My deep industry knowledge, combined with proficiency in Spanish and strong communication skills, allows me to provide expert guidance on business formation and operations. Passionate about addressing the misinformation often faced by small businesses, I am committed to educating entrepreneurs on effective strategies for success.

Session #1
2025-06-25
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #2
2025-07-02
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #3
2025-07-09
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #4
2025-07-16
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #5
2025-07-23
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Session #6
2025-07-30
5:00 PM
– 6:30 PM (PDT)

Sprint to Scale 2-Day Workshop
2025-07-02 08:00 - 16:00 | 565 Rio Vista Dr., 565 Rio Vista Dr., Fallon, 89406, United States
Embark on a transformative 2-Day journey with us to bring your business aspirations to life! Dive deep into the intricacies of business planning, set ambitious goals, and lay the foundation for your success through our dynamic and thought-provoking workbook and cohort style learning. Whether you’re starting a new venture or aiming to reach new heights, this program is your gateway to strategic growth and achievement. Don’t miss the chance to supercharge your entrepreneurial journey – enroll now and pave the way to your business dreams!
Kelli Kelly once sailed away on a tallship, cooked on dive boats in the Bahamas, worked her way up through corporate coffee, and ultimately earned an Associate’s in the Culinary Arts and a Bachelor’s in Organization and Project Management. After moving to Fallon, Nevada, Kelli found her calling in local and regional food systems while working at a farm-to-table restaurant. She was inspired to work with local farmers, ranchers, and value-added producers to promote sustainable agriculture and advocate for eating seasonally and within the foodshed. Kelli serves as the Agriculture and Food Systems Business Advisor for the Nevada Small Business Development Center housed at the Churchill Entrepreneur Development Association and is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Urban Leadership at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Kelli is an avid reader, a policy wonk, a slurper of dumplings, and a proud “person of the bean”

2024 Nevada Small Business Development Center State Star
President/Vice President/Secretary, Emerge NV
Member, Governor’s Council for Food Security
2019-2020 Chair, Nevada Farms Conference
Member, NevadaGrown Board of Directors
Member, Western Nevada College–Specialty Crop Institute Advisory Committee
Member, Northern Nevada Food Security Coalition
Member, Churchill County School District Career & Technical Education Advisory Committee
Member, Fallon Youth Club Board of Directors

Business Licensing Info Sessions
2025-07-10 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-07-17 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-07-24 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-07-31 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-08-07 11:00 - 12:00 | 2250 Las Vegas Blvd N., 2250 Las Vegas Blvd N, North Las Vegas, 89030, United States
Starting a business in Nevada? Join our free info-sessions to learn the step by step process to get your business licensed and legally operating. You will learn how to choose the right business structure, required local and state licenses, where to apply and how, common fees and timelines, and tools and resources for your business journey.
Sessions will be held every Thursday beginning July 10th and ending on September 25th. Please sign up for the date that best suits your availability.

Sesiones Informativas: Licencias De Negocios
2025-07-10 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-17 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-24 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-31 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-08-07 12:00 - 13:00 | 2250 Las Vegas Blvd N., 2250 Las Vegas Blvd N, North Las Vegas, 89030, United States
¿Estás por empezar tu negocio en Nevada?
Únete a nuestra sesión informativa gratuita para conocer el proceso paso a paso para obtener tus licencias y operar legalmente.
Aprenderás sobre:

Cómo elegir la estructura correcta (LLC, propietario único, etc.)
Licencias locales y estatales requeridas
Dónde y cómo aplicar
Costos comunes y tiempos de espera
Herramientas y recursos para ayudarte a crecer

Cada jueves desde el 10 de julio hasta el 25 de septiembre 12:00pm-1:00pm

Tax Essentials for Small Business Owners
2025-07-14 12:00 - 13:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
Designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners, this class covers the fundamentals of federal tax responsibilities, including income tax, self-employment tax, estimated payments, and common deductions. The course also provides a brief overview of Nevada sales tax rules, helping business owners understand when and how sales tax may apply to their products or services.

Taught by Lori Hauck, a Certified Public Accountant licensed in three states. She has over 15 years of experience teaching finance and accounting classes to college students and business professionals. She is an entrepreneur and international speaker on behavioral finance topics. She possesses a talent explaining financial topics to clients, students, and entrepreneurs in ways they can easily understand.

This is part of our State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) program powered by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) and funded by the U.S. Department of Treasury.

Grow Your Business with AI-Powered Tools by Google
2025-07-22 13:00 - 14:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful technology that can help simplify business tasks and create new opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs – but knowing how to use it may seem out of reach. Developed with input from experts at Google, this workshop will explain the basics of AI and how AI-powered tools by Google can help small businesses be more efficient, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth.Presenter is Roberto Martinez, Founder and CEO of Braven Agency & Smrts and Google Coach in California
Roberto is an entrepreneur, speaker, and educator with a wealth of experience in digital marketing, entrepreneurship, AI and technology. He’s passionate about helping businesses grow and succeed in the digital age running over 500 marketing and entrepreneurial workshops since 2017. He runs Braven Agency, a digital marketing agency, and SMRTS, a business intelligence AI software company.
He is Google’s California Coach, teaching small businesses how to leverage Google technology to grow. In 2020, he was appointed by the Mayor of Los Angeles as the City’s Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR), where he created and launched LA Optimized, an SMB program designed to digitize businesses to sell online during and post-pandemic. In January of 2024, Roberto launched Braven Creative Studios AI, an AI creative solution that has run AI training for Google, USC, and Amazon after securing certification from Google AI and ChatGPT. In 2024, he was selected by LA Times B2B Magazine as a DEIA Awardee.

Where's the Contract? SBIR/STTR: Nondilutive Federal Funding Opportunities for Early Technologies
2025-07-31 11:00 - 12:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
Join Logan Jones, Project Coordinator – Entrepreneurial Development Enterprise & Innovation from the Sierra Accelerator for Growth and Entrepreneurship (SAGE) at University of Nevada, Reno for an informative session on accessing nondilutive federal funding through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. This discussion will explore the small business innovation ecosystem, current federal funding trends, share key resources to support your application process in the state of Nevada, and provide actionable strategies and timelines for crafting a competitive proposal.
The webinar will conclude with a Q&A session, offering you the opportunity to get your specific questions answered and gain tailored advice for your business. Don’t miss this chance to unlock funding opportunities for your early-stage technology!
An overview of the Nevada APEX Accelerator will also be provided by an APEX representative.
Register by no later than July 30th, only using the following GoTo Webinar link:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2254809625564481371
“Where’s The Contract?” is a no-charge monthly training program designed to put Nevada businesses on the path to securing government contracts and subcontracts and diversifying revenue sources.
Regarding the APEX Accelerator [formerly known as the Nevada Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC)] (note: see the updated webpage at https://goed.nv.gov/programs-incentives/procurement-assistance-outreach/ to become a client and follow us on the updated LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com): This APEX Accelerator is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense.
Regarding the Nevada SBDC: The Nevada SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.All services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with mental or physical disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the Nevada SBDC State Office at (800) 240-7094 to make arrangements. SBA cannot endorse any products, opinions or services of any external parties or activities.
This webinar is co-sponsored by two separate organizations, i.e., the APEX Accelerator and the Nevada SBDC.

Mastering Cash Flow for Small Business Success
2025-07-31 12:00 - 13:00 | ONLINE, STATEWIDE, NV, United States
This class focuses on teaching small business owners how to effectively manage and forecast cash flow in practical ways. You’ll learn how to track income and expenses, plan for seasonality, and make informed decisions using simple tools and strategies. An ideal class for entrepreneurs who want to take control of their finances and build a resilient future.

Taught by Lori Hauck, a Certified Public Accountant licensed in three states. She has over 15 years of experience teaching finance and accounting classes to college students and business professionals. She is an entrepreneur and international speaker on behavioral finance topics. She possesses a talent explaining financial topics to clients, students, and entrepreneurs in ways they can easily understand.

This is part of our State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) program powered by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) and funded by the U.S. Department of Treasury.
