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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260409T140000
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DTSTAMP:20260420T225542
CREATED:20260326T180807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T180807Z
UID:10002914-1775743200-1775750400@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Marketing Plans Made Simple
DESCRIPTION:This workshop will walk you step-by-step through the essentials of creating a clear\, actionable marketing plan designed specifically for your creative business. You’ll learn how to set realistic goals\, identify your target audience\, and choose the marketing channels that will have the biggest impact. We’ll break down how to map out campaigns\, plan content\, and create a schedule you can actually stick to. \nYou’ll leave with easy-to-use templates for building your own marketing strategy plan\, plus practical tips for tracking results and adjusting your approach as your business grows. By the end of the workshop\, you’ll have a roadmap that makes your marketing feel focused\, intentional\, and doable. \nThis is a two-part virtual class. \nSession times: \nThursday\, April 9th\, 2:00-4:00pm\nThursday\, April 16th\, 2:00-4:00pm \nInstructor Bio: Liz Kantner is passionate about working with independent jewelry artists to help them to define their voices and thrive in the modern marketplace. After making her mark as Marketing Manager for Todd Reed\, Liz left to found her own company\, Stay Gold\, and also curated brands for JA New York’s New Designer Gallery. Liz now works exclusively for Stay Gold\, where she dedicates herself to a select roster of fine jewelry clients\, nurturing them to success through digital marketing\, trade show strategy\, sales-driving techniques\, and branding.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/marketing-plans-made-simple/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Craft Your Commerce,Learn,Online
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260320T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260320T110000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20260123T190010Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T190039Z
UID:10002898-1774000800-1774004400@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Orientation Session
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an information session to discover what resources are available at Mountain BizWorks that will help you start\, grow\, and thrive in your business. Hosted by our Learning Programs Manager\, Holly Rivers\, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about Mountain BizWorks’ small business lending and learning programs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/orientation-session-70/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Event,Learn,Online,Orientation Session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260304T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260304T123000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251117T170016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T180604Z
UID:10002884-1772616600-1772627400@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:FULL - Foundations Business Planning Course
DESCRIPTION:Our Foundations business planning course helps guide ideas from concept to reality in a participatory\, supportive learning environment.\nJoin a cohort of aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to gain an aerial perspective of your vision and the comprehensive business skills necessary to help bring your visions into reality. Participants will gain a clear aerial perspective of their business operations\, financials\, research and development\, and marketing strategies and you have the opportunity to leave the course with a business plan\, a clear vision for your business\, and concrete tasks for your future work. \nThroughout the course\, emphasis will be placed on developing the social capital of the group. Participants will be encouraged to gather feedback from their peers\, creating a strong network of deep support and synergy. For more info\, visit the Foundations Business Planning overview page. \nIf you have any questions please contact our team\,  classes@mountainbizworks.org. \nRegistration\nComplete the online registration form to hold your seat.  We will follow up with you within a few days. You are welcome to contact us with any follow-up questions or ask about the status of your request. \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/foundations-business-planning-course-18/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Course,Event,Foundations Business Planning,Learn,Online,Online Learning
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260213T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260213T123000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251117T165551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T205915Z
UID:10002883-1770976800-1770985800@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Financial Series
DESCRIPTION:What is covered:\nFinancial Tools – Financial Tools will introduce you to the tools to understand the basics of business finance so you can make informed decisions on how to organize and manage your business finances. Topics discussed are record keeping; bookkeeping; accounting; creating\, understanding and using financial statements and reports. \nAccounting Software – this class uses the accounting platform Quickbooks to provide an overview of online software\, the different subscription levels\, and will teach you how to navigate the dashboard and explore the reporting feature to generate reports that can be customized to your needs. When you complete this class\, you’ll know the best ways to get around\, enter day-to-day transactions\, get the information you need out of accounting software\, and powerful report tools that’ll help your business make good decisions. \nCost: $60 \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/financial-series-25/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Course,Event,Financial Series,Learn,Online
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T190000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251210T194734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251210T194734Z
UID:10002895-1770138000-1770145200@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Craft Your Commerce Book Club | Taxes for Humans by Hannah Cole
DESCRIPTION:Join author Hannah Cole for a two-part discussion of her new book\, Taxes for Humans. As both a tax expert and an artist\, Hannah excels at demystifying taxes for anyone\, but especially for creative people. If you’ve ever found yourself wanting a simple\, kind\, and practical explanation of how to handle your taxes as a self-employed person\, this book is for you. \nMeeting dates: \n\nTuesday\, February 3rd\, 5:00-7:00 pm\, in-person at the Center for Craft\nTuesday\, February 24th\, 12:00 – 2:00pm\, virtual via Zoom\n\nAbout the Book: \n“Equal parts empathetic and practical\, Taxes for Humans is a handbook for tackling the tax-season-scaries\, written specifically for people who are self-employed. Provides essential tax education for those pushed to the back of the financial line in America\, including women\, queer people\, and BIPOC folks\, this book provides the practical tools people need to understand their taxes\, conquer their fear of finances\, bulk up on tax benefits\, and end the tax season stronger\, smarter\, and more tax-savvy than ever–without sacrificing their sanity.” \nAbout the Author/Facilitator: \nHannah Cole is a tax expert who specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself\, she’s helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education\, through her Money Bootcamp program\, speaking engagements from Florida to Alaska\, and on the Sunlight Tax podcast. She is the founder of Sunlight Tax.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/craft-your-commerce-book-club-taxes-for-humans-by-hannah-cole/
LOCATION:Center for Craft – Michael Sherrill Loft\, 67 Broadway St\, Asheville\, 28801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Class,Craft Your Commerce,In-Person,Learn
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260126T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260126T183000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251121T220820Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251121T220901Z
UID:10002886-1769448600-1769452200@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Orientation Session
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an information session to discover what resources are available at Mountain BizWorks that will help you start\, grow\, and thrive in your business. Hosted by our Learning Programs Coordinator\, Amanda Ross\, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about Mountain BizWorks’ small business lending and learning programs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/orientation-session-67/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Event,Learn,Online,Orientation Session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260120T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260120T203000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251105T211448Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T161056Z
UID:10002876-1768932000-1768941000@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:FULL - Marketing & Branding Essentials Course
DESCRIPTION:Ready to Market Your Business? Start Here! \nYou’ve got a product or service you’re excited to share with the world—but how do you get the word out? With so many marketing options available\, it can feel overwhelming to create a strategy that’s both effective and affordable. \nJoin us for a 6-week course that will help you master the basics of branding and marketing. Together\, we’ll explore the fundamentals of: \n\nBranding: Build recognition and trust by establishing a strong identity and creating a connection with your audience.\nMarketing: Learn which tools and strategies will attract\, engage\, and convert customers effectively.\n\nThis course includes interactive\, hands-on exercises to help you: \n\nDevelop a marketing plan tailored to your business.\nCraft website copy that captures your message.\nCreate engaging social media content and refine your brand’s aesthetic.\n\nBy the end of this course\, you’ll walk away with actionable tools to market your business confidently today—and a roadmap to grow into an enduring\, memorable brand! \nThis course is perfect for: \n\nBusiness owners with an established concept or business model.\nEntrepreneurs ready to bring their product or service to market.\nAnyone eager to learn the essentials of marketing and branding while creating a practical\, tactical marketing plan.\n\nRecommended but not required: Completion of our Foundations Course or prior business coaching.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/marketing-branding-essentials-course-3/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Course,Learn,Marketing,Online
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260114T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260114T203000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251117T164222Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260108T195412Z
UID:10002880-1768411800-1768422600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:FULL - Foundations Business Planning Course
DESCRIPTION:Our Foundations business planning course helps guide ideas from concept to reality in a participatory\, supportive learning environment.\nJoin a cohort of aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to gain an aerial perspective of your vision and the comprehensive business skills necessary to help bring your visions into reality. Participants will gain a clear aerial perspective of their business operations\, financials\, research and development\, and marketing strategies and you have the opportunity to leave the course with a business plan\, a clear vision for your business\, and concrete tasks for your future work. \nThroughout the course\, emphasis will be placed on developing the social capital of the group. Participants will be encouraged to gather feedback from their peers\, creating a strong network of deep support and synergy. For more info\, visit the Foundations Business Planning overview page. \nIf you have any questions please contact our team\,  classes@mountainbizworks.org. \nRegistration\nComplete the online registration form to hold your seat.  We will follow up with you within a few days. You are welcome to contact us with any follow-up questions or ask about the status of your request. \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/foundations-business-planning-course-17/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Course,Foundations Business Planning,Learn,Online,Online Learning
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260112T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260112T120000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251212T133526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251212T133526Z
UID:10002896-1768212000-1768219200@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Money Mondays: Monthly Financial Check-Ins for Creative Entrepreneurs
DESCRIPTION:Stay grounded\, organized\, and financially on track with Money Mondays\, a monthly group session designed to help you meet your financial goals with clarity and confidence. Led by experienced bookkeeper and accountant Deanna Lynch\, these sessions offer expert instruction\, practical tools\, and space for open discussion and peer support. \nWhether you’re refining your budget\, untangling your bookkeeping system\, or preparing for tax season\, Money Mondays will help you stay accountable and make informed decisions for your creative business. \nEach session includes:\nGuided instruction from Deanna Lynch\nQ&A time to address real-time questions\nWorksheet takeaways\nOffice Hours: hands-on time to work through your numbers in a group setting with Deanna \n2026 January – June Monthly Topics \n\nJanuary 12 —Year End: Looking back and re-orienting for the year ahead\nFebruary 9 —What to keep track of (what are expenses\, what does your accountant need\, what do you need to file taxes\, what info do YOU need\nMarch 9 —Chart of Accounts: what it is and how to make it work for your business\nApril 13 —Making a Business Spending Plan\nMay 11— Personal Finance Goals\n\nMoney Mondays will take a summer break in June-July\, and then resume in August and continue through the end of the year. Those who register for the winter-spring series will get the first opportunity to register for the summer-fall series. \nInstructor Bio: \nDeanna is a professional handweaver and part-time bookkeeper for small businesses. She has worked with a variety of industries over the years and is well versed in Quickbooks and helping businesses get set-up with appropriate record keeping systems. With both a creative and business background\, her approach to financials and information management is approachable. She emphasizes the use of systems that are flexible and can grow with your business and are tailored to each business’s unique needs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/money-mondays-monthly-financial-check-ins-for-creative-entrepreneurs-spring-2026/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Craft Your Commerce,In-Person,Learn
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251203T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251203T110000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251014T132910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T132951Z
UID:10002872-1764756000-1764759600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Orientation Session
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an information session to discover what resources are available at Mountain BizWorks that will help you start\, grow\, and thrive in your business. Hosted by our Learning Programs Coordinator\, Amanda Ross\, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about Mountain BizWorks’ small business lending and learning programs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/orientation-session-65/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Event,Learn,Online,Orientation Session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251107T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251107T123000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250616T170245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251009T160138Z
UID:10002829-1762509600-1762518600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Financial Series
DESCRIPTION:What is covered:\nFinancial Tools – Financial Tools will introduce you to the tools to understand the basics of business finance so you can make informed decisions on how to organize and manage your business finances. Topics discussed are record keeping; bookkeeping; accounting; creating\, understanding and using financial statements and reports. \nAccounting Software – this class uses the accounting platform Quickbooks to provide an overview of online software\, the different subscription levels\, and will teach you how to navigate the dashboard and explore the reporting feature to generate reports that can be customized to your needs. When you complete this class\, you’ll know the best ways to get around\, enter day-to-day transactions\, get the information you need out of accounting software\, and powerful report tools that’ll help your business make good decisions. \nCost: $60 \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/financial-series-24/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Course,Event,Financial Series,Learn,Online
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251105T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251105T203000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251007T121329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251009T160320Z
UID:10002871-1762363800-1762374600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Foundations Business Planning Course
DESCRIPTION:Our Foundations business planning course helps guide ideas from concept to reality in a participatory\, supportive learning environment.\nJoin a cohort of aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to gain an aerial perspective of your vision and the comprehensive business skills necessary to help bring your visions into reality. Participants will gain a clear aerial perspective of their business operations\, financials\, research and development\, and marketing strategies and you have the opportunity to leave the course with a business plan\, a clear vision for your business\, and concrete tasks for your future work. \nThroughout the course\, emphasis will be placed on developing the social capital of the group. Participants will be encouraged to gather feedback from their peers\, creating a strong network of deep support and synergy. For more info\, visit the Foundations Business Planning overview page. \nIf you have any questions please contact our team\,  classes@mountainbizworks.org. \nRegistration\nComplete the online registration form to hold your seat.  We will follow up with you within a few days. You are welcome to contact us with any follow-up questions or ask about the status of your request. \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/foundations-business-planning-course-8/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Course,Foundations Business Planning,Learn,Online,Online Learning
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251105T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251105T153000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20251015T200805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251016T172014Z
UID:10002873-1762353000-1762356600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:The 2025 Solar Deadline: How to Lock in Your Savings
DESCRIPTION:If you’ve been thinking about adding solar to your business or nonprofit\, now is a great time to act. Federal incentives that could cover 30% or more of your project cost will be harder to claim after 2025. Join us on November 5th for a webinar with Scott Zintz of Sugar Hollow Solar and Eric Burton of Mountain BizWorks to learn about these incentives\, how to start your solar project\, and financing options available to help with the upfront cost.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/electrifywebinar/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Electrify Fund,Growth Initiative,Online,Webinar,Workshop
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251030T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251030T163000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250930T164924Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T164924Z
UID:10002869-1761816600-1761841800@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Scaling Up Food and Beverage Manufacturing Businesses
DESCRIPTION:This event is part of the Asheville Local Lab series to advance the food and beverage manufacturing industry in WNC\, from our partners at Mechanism (formerly the Urban Manufacturing Alliance). \nScaling Up is a one hour industry focus group open to owners and employees of food and beverage manufacturers and value-added food or beverage companies. \nThere is no limit to the scale of the business that can participate\, we welcome soloprenuers and those with 100+ employees and everything in between. And we want companies at any stage of development\, from those working out of your home kitchen to companies with their own production facility. \nInsights shared at this discussion will help inform recommendations for new shared resources\, infrastructure\, and investment in strategies to remove barriers to scaling and sustaining businesses in Western North Carolina Region. \n“See the other events in our Asheville Local Lab series HERE\, and please share this invite within your network. We look forward to seeing you soon!”
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/scaling-up-food-and-beverage/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Partner Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251029T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251029T183000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250911T001110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T001151Z
UID:10002866-1761759000-1761762600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Orientation Session
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an information session to discover what resources are available at Mountain BizWorks that will help you start\, grow\, and thrive in your business. Hosted by our Learning Programs Coordinator\, Amanda Ross\, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about Mountain BizWorks’ small business lending and learning programs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/orientation-session-63/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Event,Learn,Online,Orientation Session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251024T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251024T130000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250616T165412Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250617T171017Z
UID:10002828-1761300000-1761310800@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Weathering the Storm: Smart Financial Practices for Hurricane Relief Funds
DESCRIPTION:This workshop is designed to equip you with the tools and knowledge to manage donations and disaster-related expenses effectively. Whether you’ve received community support or government grants\, understanding how to track\, report\, and account for these funds is essential for financial transparency and compliance. \nDuring this 3 hour session\, you’ll learn how to properly record donations\, distinguish between restricted and unrestricted funds\, and ensure compliance with tax regulations. The workshop also covers best practices for budgeting hurricane-related expenses and avoiding common pitfalls. Through case studies and group exercises\, you’ll gain hands-on experience in creating systems for financial accountability. \nJoin us to build confidence in managing disaster-related finances while supporting your business’s recovery and sustainability. \n  \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/weathering-the-storm-smart-financial-practices-for-hurricane-relief-funds/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Event,Learn,Online,Workshop
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251009T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251106T130000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250827T193801Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T155916Z
UID:10002861-1760004000-1762434000@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Invested Course
DESCRIPTION:Thursdays\, October 9 – November 6\, 10 am – 1 pm – virtual \nIn these interactive sessions\, you will be guided through the intricacies of acquiring capital (money)\, offering practical strategies and actionable insights to empower your business journey. From traditional bank loans to alternative financing options\, we’ll engage with the diverse avenues available for accessing funding. \nThe 5-session course will launch on October 9th.\nKey Topics Include: \n\nUnderstanding the fundamentals of debt and equity financing.\nAssessing your business’s capital needs and financial readiness.\nExploring traditional and alternative sources of debt capital.\nLeveraging assets and collateral.\nEvaluating the pros and cons of raising investor capital.\nCrafting effective business valuations\, investment plans and investor pitches.\nNegotiating equity agreements and managing investor relations.\nExploring the importance of and different types of exit strategies.\n\nWhether you’re a solopreneur with a promising idea or a seasoned entrepreneur seeking growth opportunities\, this workshop will provide invaluable insights to help you navigate the complex landscape of small business funding. Join us and unlock the potential of your business with the right capital strategy. \nCourse participants will also have the opportunity to pitch their business at the capstone Mountain Raise event in November.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/invested-fall-2025/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Invested,Learn
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250924T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250924T110000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250617T153652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250617T153705Z
UID:10002833-1758708000-1758711600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Orientation Session
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an information session to discover what resources are available at Mountain BizWorks that will help you start\, grow\, and thrive in your business. Hosted by our Learning Programs Coordinator\, Amanda Ross\, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about Mountain BizWorks’ small business lending and learning programs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/orientation-session-61/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Event,Learn,Online,Orientation Session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250923T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250923T193000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250328T173001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250731T153102Z
UID:10002798-1758648600-1758655800@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Craft Your Commerce Book Club | How to Not Always Be Working by Cody Cook-Parrott
DESCRIPTION:We’re back\, bookworms! This fall\, Craft Your Commerce will be digging into the book How to Not Always be Working\, by Cody Cook-Parrot. \nFrom the publisher: “Filled with practical advice to help you curb your unhelpful obsessions and build boundaries between your work\, your job\, and your life—How to Not Always Be Working is for any- and everyone who wants to create a sacred space in their lives.” \nThis book is great for anyone looking feeling overwhelmed with information and an ever-increasing to-do list in our fast-paced\, hyperconnected world\, but it is especially relevant for independent entrepreneurs and freelancers\, who already have less separation between work and life than those with a nine-to-five. Or maybe you are a creative who is on the nine-to-five grind\, but want to create more space for your creative work – this book is for you too! \nBook Club will meet twice to discuss this book\, once in-person\, and once virtually for a Q&A with the author. See dates below. \nNote: The author of How to Not Always Be Working went through a name change since publishing\, so the name on the cover is Marlee Grace rather than Cody Cook-Parrott. You may find the book listed under either name online. \nMeeting Dates and Times: \nTuesday\, September 23rd\n5:30-7:30 pm\nIn-Person\, Print House in Downtown Asheville \nTuesday\, October 21st\n5:30-7:30 pm\nVirtual Q&A with the author via Zoom \nAbout the Facilitator: \nJ. Faye D’Avanza serves artists and creative communities as a consultant and facilitator based in Asheville\, NC. With a vision to transform the world of creativity and how we care for it\, she shares stories and tools for creative regeneration in her Substack newsletter Keeping Creative Time. A writer and librarian\, she is certified as an Inward & Artward Creative Facilitator\, and is the founder of Library of Care\, a holistic education + resource hub for creative healing\, and thriving in the burnout age. Learn more about working with Faye at jfayedavanza.com and on Instagram @libraryofcare.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/craft-your-commerce-book-club-fall-25/
LOCATION:Print House\, 29 Carolina Ln\, Asheville\, NC\, 28801
CATEGORIES:Class,Craft Your Commerce,In-Person,Learn
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250923T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250923T130000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250618T162814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T174918Z
UID:10002835-1758621600-1758632400@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Foundations Business Planning Course
DESCRIPTION:Our Foundations business planning course helps guide ideas from concept to reality in a participatory\, supportive learning environment.\nJoin a cohort of aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to gain an aerial perspective of your vision and the comprehensive business skills necessary to help bring your visions into reality. Participants will gain a clear aerial perspective of their business operations\, financials\, research and development\, and marketing strategies. They will leave the course with a comprehensive business plan\, a clear vision for their business\, and concrete tasks for future work. \nThroughout the course\, emphasis will be placed on developing the social capital of the group. Participants will be encouraged to gather feedback from their peers\, creating a strong network of deep support and synergy. For more info\, visit the Foundations Business Planning overview page. \nIf you have any questions please contact our team at classes@mountainbizworks.org. \nRegistration\nComplete our online registration form to hold your seat in the cohort of your choice.  We will follow up with you within a few days. You are welcome to contact us with any follow-up questions or ask about the status of your request. \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/full-foundations-business-planning-class/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Course,Foundations Business Planning,Learn,Online,Online Learning
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250917T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250917T140000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250903T205142Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T205142Z
UID:10002863-1758114000-1758117600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:RAISING DOUGH: Creative Funding Strategies for Food/Beverage Manufacturers
DESCRIPTION:Do you make food & beverage products? Do you operate a shared kitchen? Have you ever struggled with a funding issue? Well this is for you! \nUrban Manufacturing Alliance (UMA) is hosting a 3-part\, virtual learning series\, beginning in September\, that will bring together national stakeholders to discuss capital. Hosted by Audra Ladd (UMA)\, each session will together a national organization and one of the businesses they support. We will spend time with them hearing about their experiences\, strategies\, and solutions to capital problems. Over the course of 3 sessions\, we will discuss and develop a shared resource to be developed with the information from these sessions. \nWhether it’s a brand incubator\, or a shared logistics provider\, our guests will talk about their organizations and how their wins could benefit those currently in the thick of it. This series is for food and beverare product manufacturers\, shared kitchens\, capital providers\, economic development specialists\, suppliers\, technical assistance providers\, or intermediaries within the food & beverage product sector. \nGrab your drink of choice\, get your favorite notebook\, and update your LinkedIn – we’ll see you starting in September! \n\nSession 1: Wednesday\, September 17th / 1:00-2:00pm ET\nSession 2: Wednesday\, October 15th / 1:00-2:00pm ET\nSession 3: Wednesday\, November 19th / 1:00-2:00pm ET
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/creative-funding-for-food-and-beverage-manufacturers/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Partner Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250912T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250912T123000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250502T221330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T221348Z
UID:10002816-1757671200-1757680200@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Financial Series
DESCRIPTION:What is covered:\nFinancial Tools – Financial Tools will introduce you to the tools to understand the basics of business finance so you can make informed decisions on how to organize and manage your business finances. Topics discussed are record keeping; bookkeeping; accounting; creating\, understanding and using financial statements and reports. \nAccounting Software – this class uses the accounting platform Quickbooks to provide an overview of online software\, the different subscription levels\, and will teach you how to navigate the dashboard and explore the reporting feature to generate reports that can be customized to your needs. When you complete this class\, you’ll know the best ways to get around\, enter day-to-day transactions\, get the information you need out of accounting software\, and powerful report tools that’ll help your business make good decisions. \nCost: $60 \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/financial-series-22/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Course,Event,Financial Series,In-Person,Learn
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250910T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250910T130000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250902T152624Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250902T152624Z
UID:10002862-1757505600-1757509200@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Ingredients for Growth: Funding for Food & Beverage Manufacturers
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Urban Manufacturing Alliance\, as a part of the ongoing Asheville Local Lab Series on food and beverage manufacturing. \nThis Stakeholder Conversation will bring together community members within the food & beverage manufacturing and capital landscape in Western NC to discuss how capital can better support them. \nWe welcome small business lenders\, community development entities\, mission-driven funds that support the food system\, farmers market managers\, shared kitchens\, food business technical assistance providers\, retailers and wholesalers carrying local products\, and other champions of local goods to join this working session! \nAttendees will collectively map and discuss the regional capital landscape for food and beverage producers and those they work with. \nSee the other events in the Asheville Local Lab Series HERE\, and save the date for an in-person event happening in Asheville on October 30th. We’ll see you there!
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/ingredients-for-growth-funding-for-food-beverage-manufacturers/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Partner Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250908T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250908T203000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250616T164356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T151425Z
UID:10002826-1757354400-1757363400@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:FULL - Marketing & Branding Essentials Course
DESCRIPTION:Ready to Market Your Business? Start Here! \nYou’ve got a product or service you’re excited to share with the world—but how do you get the word out? With so many marketing options available\, it can feel overwhelming to create a strategy that’s both effective and affordable. \nJoin us for a 6-week course that will help you master the basics of branding and marketing. Together\, we’ll explore the fundamentals of: \n\nBranding: Build recognition and trust by establishing a strong identity and creating a connection with your audience.\nMarketing: Learn which tools and strategies will attract\, engage\, and convert customers effectively.\n\nThis course includes interactive\, hands-on exercises to help you: \n\nDevelop a marketing plan tailored to your business.\nCraft website copy that captures your message.\nCreate engaging social media content and refine your brand’s aesthetic.\n\nBy the end of this course\, you’ll walk away with actionable tools to market your business confidently today—and a roadmap to grow into an enduring\, memorable brand! \nThis course is perfect for: \n\nBusiness owners with an established concept or business model.\nEntrepreneurs ready to bring their product or service to market.\nAnyone eager to learn the essentials of marketing and branding while creating a practical\, tactical marketing plan.\n\nRecommended but not required: Completion of our Foundations Course or prior business coaching.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/marketing-branding-essentials-course-2/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Course,Learn,Marketing,Online
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250825T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250825T183000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250617T153337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250617T153406Z
UID:10002832-1756143000-1756146600@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Orientation Session
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an information session to discover what resources are available at Mountain BizWorks that will help you start\, grow\, and thrive in your business. Hosted by our Learning Programs Coordinator\, Amanda Ross\, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about Mountain BizWorks’ small business lending and learning programs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/orientation-session-60/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Event,Learn,Online,Orientation Session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250812T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250812T160000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250714T173457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T173618Z
UID:10002853-1755003600-1755014400@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Design Decoded: Canva for Professionals
DESCRIPTION:Design Decoded: Canva for Professionals is a hands-on learning lab (aka action workshop)\, led by Top 5% Canva Designer and local creative entrepreneur\, Cortina Caldwell. Already using Canva at your job\, but feel like your marketing materials are missing the mark? This learning lab is for you! Grab your laptop and cozy up to this interactive session with a top-rated Canva designer for pro-tips that will WOW your audience. We’ll cover posters\, merch\, decks\, video reels + a few features you didn’t know you needed! \n👉 After registering\, email any design you want considered \nfor the live coaching part of the lab (cortina@brandevangelist.io). \nAll registrants will receive a recording of the workshop\, and an access link for the Discord community. \nInstructor Bio: \nCortina Jenelle Caldwell (Cortina) is a brand strategist utilizing technology\, media and design to spark new ideas\, human connections and place-based experiences through visual storytelling and creative architecture. Cortina earned her Masters in Business Management & Leadership (2015) after soft launching a creative consultancy (2014) in response to the limited resources available to Appalachian entrepreneurs in the creative sector. Cortina was awarded Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year by WNC MEDWeek (2012); going on to join the ranks of 40 Under Forty (2013); a Tzedek Impact Award for her work under the Artists Designing Evolution (adé PROJECT) umbrella (2019-2020); KNOW Women of Asheville (2021); several industry awards for Brand Evangelist including “Most Client-Focused Copywriting and Branding Agency” by the Southern States Business Awards; and membership in prestigious creative leadership cohorts – ArtsBuild’s Periscope Chattanooga and River City Company’s Emerging Producer Program (2024-2025). Cortina is also a certified creative facilitator and award-winning grant writer\, often using these skills to help nonprofits as low/pro-bono work. In early 2025\, Cortina gained notoriety for her extensive work and skills in Canva\, being applauded by the global platform as a “Top 5% Designer”; and became an inductee into Who’s Who in America for her contributions to media and business. Cortina credits her achievements to her circle of mentors\, especially her first true mentor\, her grandmother\, who taught her the joy of hard work\, importance of taking care of community\, and how to share God-given talents through entrepreneurship.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/design-decoded-canva-for-professionals/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Craft Your Commerce,Learn,Online
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250811T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250811T113000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250701T190846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250701T190846Z
UID:10002849-1754906400-1754911800@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Money Mondays: Monthly Financial Check-Ins for Creative Entrepreneurs
DESCRIPTION:Stay grounded\, organized\, and financially on track with Money Mondays\, a monthly group session designed to help you meet your year-end financial goals with clarity and confidence. Led by experienced bookkeeper and accountant Deanna Lynch\, these sessions offer expert instruction\, practical tools\, and space for open discussion and peer support. \nWhether you’re refining your budget\, untangling your bookkeeping system\, or preparing for tax season\, Money Mondays will help you stay accountable and make informed decisions for your creative business. \nEach session includes:\nGuided instruction from Deanna\nQ&A time to address real-time questions\nCollaborative cohort energy to keep you motivated\nHands-on time to work through your numbers \n2025 Monthly Topics \n\nAugust 11 – Budgeting 101 & Spending Plans\nSeptember 15 – Information Systems Mapping & Financial Organization\nOctober 13 – Pricing Strategies & Sales Tax Basics\nNovember 10 – Financial Goal-Setting & Strategic Spending\nDecember 8 – Annual Tax Prep & Schedule C Planning\n\nBring your questions\, your spreadsheets\, and your calculator—we’ll bring the guidance. \nInstructor Bio: \nDeanna is a professional handweaver and part-time bookkeeper for small businesses. She has worked with a variety of industries over the years and is well versed in Quickbooks and helping businesses get set-up with appropriate record keeping systems. With both a creative and business background\, her approach to financials and information management is approachable. She emphasizes the use of systems that are flexible and can grow with your business and are tailored to each business’s unique needs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/craft-your-commerce-money-mondays/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Craft Your Commerce,In-Person,Learn
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250806T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250806T203000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250502T220411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250523T133806Z
UID:10002815-1754501400-1754512200@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Foundations Business Planning Course
DESCRIPTION:Our Foundations business planning course helps guide ideas from concept to reality in a participatory\, supportive learning environment.\nJoin a cohort of aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to gain an aerial perspective of your vision and the comprehensive business skills necessary to help bring your visions into reality. Participants will gain a clear aerial perspective of their business operations\, financials\, research and development\, and marketing strategies and you have the opportunity to leave the course with a business plan\, a clear vision for your business\, and concrete tasks for your future work. \nThroughout the course\, emphasis will be placed on developing the social capital of the group. Participants will be encouraged to gather feedback from their peers\, creating a strong network of deep support and synergy. For more info\, visit the Foundations Business Planning overview page. \nIf you have any questions please contact our team\,  classes@mountainbizworks.org. \nRegistration\nComplete the online registration form to hold your seat.  We will follow up with you within a few days. You are welcome to contact us with any follow-up questions or ask about the status of your request. \n 
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/foundations-business-planning-course-15/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Course,Event,Foundations Business Planning,Learn,Online,Online Learning
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250729T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250729T110000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250502T215519Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T215532Z
UID:10002814-1753783200-1753786800@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Orientation Session
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an information session to discover what resources are available at Mountain BizWorks that will help you start\, grow\, and thrive in your business. Hosted by our Learning Programs Coordinator\, Amanda Ross\, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about Mountain BizWorks’ small business lending and learning programs.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/orientation-session-57/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Event,Learn,Online,Orientation Session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250708T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250708T160000
DTSTAMP:20260420T225543
CREATED:20250609T132338Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250609T133316Z
UID:10002823-1751979600-1751990400@wpengine.mountainbizworks.org
SUMMARY:Design Decoded: Canva for Creatives
DESCRIPTION:Design Decoded: Canva for Creatives is a hands-on learning lab (aka action workshop)\, led by Top 5% Canva Designer and local creative entrepreneur\, Cortina Caldwell\, thoughtfully crafted with the needs of creative entrepreneurs & contractors in mind. Treat this like Craft Your Commerce-sponsored “design office hours”—bring unfinished graphics\, branding questions\, or just show up ready to steal my favorite Canva hacks. \n👉 After registering\, email any design you want considered \nfor the live coaching part of the lab (cortina@brandevangelist.io). \n🎯 THE PROBLEM \n\nOverwhelmed by DIY design but can’t afford a pro?\nSpending too much time tweaking templates instead of growing your biz?\n\n🎯 WHAT THIS LAB WILL HELP YOU WITH: \n✔ Branding shortcuts – Set up a Canva brand kit (so everything stays on-point).\n✔ Pro design tricks – Make your marketing stand out (even if you’re not a designer).\n✔ Time-savers – Automate stuff you’re doing manually (resizing for IG\, LinkedIn\, etc.).\n✔ Money-savers – Tap into amazing tools inside Canva you’re probably missing.\n✔ Design with Confidence – Stop stressing over visuals and get back to making money. \n💡 BONUS: Join my private community Discord for ongoing support\, exclusive network discounts\, and first-look at future design\, marketing\, branding and business guides+ \nAll registrants will receive a recording of the workshop\, and an access link for the Discord community. \nInstructor Bio: \nCortina Jenelle Caldwell (Cortina) is a brand strategist utilizing technology\, media and design to spark new ideas\, human connections and place-based experiences through visual storytelling and creative architecture. Cortina earned her Masters in Business Management & Leadership (2015) after soft launching a creative consultancy (2014) in response to the limited resources available to Appalachian entrepreneurs in the creative sector. Cortina was awarded Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year by WNC MEDWeek (2012); going on to join the ranks of 40 Under Forty (2013); a Tzedek Impact Award for her work under the Artists Designing Evolution (adé PROJECT) umbrella (2019-2020); KNOW Women of Asheville (2021); several industry awards for Brand Evangelist including “Most Client-Focused Copywriting and Branding Agency” by the Southern States Business Awards; and membership in prestigious creative leadership cohorts – ArtsBuild’s Periscope Chattanooga and River City Company’s Emerging Producer Program (2024-2025). Cortina is also a certified creative facilitator and award-winning grant writer\, often using these skills to help nonprofits as low/pro-bono work. In early 2025\, Cortina gained notoriety for her extensive work and skills in Canva\, being applauded by the global platform as a “Top 5% Designer”; and became an inductee into Who’s Who in America for her contributions to media and business. Cortina credits her achievements to her circle of mentors\, especially her first true mentor\, her grandmother\, who taught her the joy of hard work\, importance of taking care of community\, and how to share God-given talents through entrepreneurship.
URL:https://wpengine.mountainbizworks.org/event/craft-your-commerce-design-decoded-canva-for-creatives/
LOCATION:Virtual\, Online — Zoom\, NC
CATEGORIES:Class,Craft Your Commerce,Learn,Online
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR