East County EDC

Ready to elevate your business idea? Join our workshop, "Business Plans That Get Results," designed to help both new and experienced business owners create plans that impress investors, partners, and lenders.

Course Details
Date: 8/7/2024
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 8/7/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/4bx6FKK

What to Expect:
- Components of an Effective Business Plan: Dive deep into the essential elements of a successful business plan, from executive summaries to financial projections.
- Strategic Planning for Growth: Discover how to strategically set your business on the path to success, identify growth opportunities, and conduct competitive analysis and market research.
- Financial Planning and Projections: Learn to create realistic revenue forecasts, budgets, and financial projections that showcase your business's profitability and growth potential.

Don't miss this opportunity. Register now!

Join our free online class "How Successful Companies Use Social Media" and learn how to transform your brand's online presence!

Course Details
Date: 8/6/2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 8/6/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3Vq70Iq

What You’ll Learn
- Foundational Focus: Discover the first thing every company must prioritize to connect with and retain their audience.
- The Common Misstep: Learn the costly mistake almost every company makes and how to avoid it for better engagement and profitability.
- Successful Companies' Simple Recipe: Decode the straightforward strategy that top companies use to dominate social media across various industries.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to transform your social media approach. Register now and elevate your brand’s online presence!

The East County EDC is joining the movement to fill the skills gap and inspire the future workforce by hosting a manufacturing expo on October 1, 2024! Visit https://eastcountyedc.org/me/ for more information and to register to exhibit!

Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of the San Diego Business Journal CEO of the Year award! 🎉 A special shout-out to our very own CEO, James Sly. We are honored to have a leader with such passion and drive to serve our community. To learn more about our organization and see what we're up to, visit www.eastcountyedc.org.

Meet one of our local East County manufacturers and a small business from La Mesa, The Jackalope (https://www.thejackalope.art/). They manufacture waxed canvas bags and accessories. They came out to showcase their products and ignite interest in our future creators!

We invite manufacturers of all sizes to join us on October 1st, 2024 from 11 AM-2 PM at our 9th Annual East County Manufacturing Expo. Visit https://eastcountyedc.org/me/ for more information and to register to exhibit!

Are you ready to create a sales plan that delivers long-term results? Join our workshop, "Creating a Sales Plan That Produces Long-term Results," and learn how to drive sustainable business growth!

Course Details
Date: 7/31/2024
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 7/31/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3KjvaPl

What You’ll Learn:
- Anatomy of a Sale: Understand the complete sales process, from lead generation to closing the deal. Learn how to navigate the sales funnel effectively and move prospects towards a successful close.
- Developing a Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Identify and articulate your USP to differentiate your offerings from competitors. Highlight the value you bring to your customers and stand out in the market.
- Identifying Key Ingredients for a Successful Sales Plan: Discover critical elements such as market analysis, competition understanding, and target audience definition. Set realistic sales goals and develop a sales budget aligned with your business objectives.

Don’t miss this opportunity to create a sales plan that drives results and fosters long-term business growth!

Did you know that our 8th Annual East County Manufacturing EXPO featured over 50 manufacturers and attracted over 1,000 attendees, including more than 800 high school students enrolled in San Diego manufacturing pathways?

Manufacturers join us on October 1st, 2024 from 11 AM-2 PM at our 9th Annual East County Manufacturing Expo. Visit https://eastcountyedc.org/me/ for more information and to register to exhibit!

Check out the Fox 5 News clip highlighting Sherida Bonton, one of the City of La Mesa's newest business owners! Sherida recently graduated from the City's Entrepreneur Accelerator (LEAP) program and opened her business, Flavour Spice & Tea. LEAP is a collaborative program with the East County EDC and the San Diego & Imperial Small Business Development Center. The City is currently in its third cohort. To learn more visit https://www.cityoflamesa.us/1814/La-Mesa-Entrepreneurship-Accelerator-Pro
FOX5 News Clip- https://youtu.be/bk_2v6d4690

Join us in supporting the East County EDC’s 9th Annual East County Manufacturing Expo at Cuyamaca College on October 1st, 2024! Celebrate local manufacturing achievements with your sponsorship, and help:
🌟Companies Showcase Products
💼 Businesses Recruit New Employees
🎓 Inspire Students
🔧 Empower Job Seekers
📚 Enhance Workforce Development
📈 Grow Manufacturing Enterprises

Partner with us to inspire and empower the next generation of manufacturers! Check out our Sponsorship Packet. https://conta.cc/3Y0cGvj

Ready to elevate your business idea? Join our workshop, "Business Plans That Get Results," designed to help both new and experienced business owners create plans that impress investors, partners, and lenders.

Course Details
Date: 7/24/2024
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 7/24/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3wOibSK

What to Expect:
- Components of an Effective Business Plan: Dive deep into the essential elements of a successful business plan, from executive summaries to financial projections.
- Strategic Planning for Growth: Discover how to strategically set your business on the path to success, identify growth opportunities, and conduct competitive analysis and market research.
- Financial Planning and Projections: Learn to create realistic revenue forecasts, budgets, and financial projections that showcase your business's profitability and growth potential.

Don't miss this opportunity. Register now!

Are you ready to leverage LinkedIn for business growth? Join our interactive workshop, "How to Find Business Using LinkedIn," and discover how to turn your LinkedIn profile into a tool for networking and business development.

Course Details
Date: 7/23/2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 7/23/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3yUJY4R

What You’ll Learn
- Profile Optimization for Maximum Visibility: Craft a compelling LinkedIn profile that showcases your business value, expertise, and unique offerings. Learn the importance of a professional photo, a compelling summary, and a detailed experience section.
- Strategic Networking and Relationship Building: Build a strategic network by connecting with key decision-makers, influencers, and potential clients. Master the art of engaging with connections through meaningful conversations and thoughtful comments.
- Content Strategy for Engagement and Visibility: Create and share content that resonates with your target audience. Utilize articles, posts, and updates to demonstrate your expertise and keep your network engaged. Learn how consistent, value-driven content can boost your visibility and attract business opportunities.

Don’t miss this chance to transform your LinkedIn profile. Secure your spot today!

In today's digital age, safeguarding your business from cyber threats is crucial. Join our workshop, "Cybersecurity Awareness – A Guide to Safeguarding Your Business," and learn how to protect your digital workspace.

Course Details
Date: 7/18/2024
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 7/18/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3KAhyj5

What to Expect
- Cyber-Fundamentals: Understand the basic concepts of cybersecurity, including malware, ransomware, and phishing. Learn about the types of cyber threats targeting remote workers and businesses.
- Best Practices for Data Protection: Discover effective practices such as using strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, secure Wi-Fi, and data encryption. Implement these practices in your daily routine to ensure maximum security.
- Secure Use of Collaborative Tools: Explore various collaborative tools for remote work, understanding their benefits and potential security risks. Learn how to choose and use these tools safely for secure and efficient team collaboration.

Register now and safeguard your business.

Are you ready to build lasting customer loyalty and stand out in today’s competitive market? Join our workshop, "Build Customer Loyalty with Excellent Customer Service," and discover how to transform every customer interaction into an opportunity for growth!

Course Details
Date: 7/17/2024
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 7/17/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3UQJCU5

What You’ll Learn:
- Understanding the Customer’s Perspective: Gain insights into the importance of empathy and understanding. Learn how to anticipate customer needs and exceed their expectations, fostering strong emotional connections.
- Building a Customer-Centric Culture: Explore strategies for fostering a customer-centric culture within your organization. Understand the role of leadership in setting the tone for service excellence and empowering your team.
- Communication Skills for Positive Interactions: Master effective communication techniques, including active listening and positive language. Learn how to build trust and rapport through clear and concise messaging.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take your customer service skills to the next level!

Are you struggling to connect with your audience on social media? Don’t miss out on our exclusive training session: "Use These 3 Stages Of “Awareness” To Get Customers & Clients Using Social Media".

Course Details
Date: 7/16/2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 7/16/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/4cePqgW

What You’ll Learn
Stage 1 - Unawareness: Introduce your brand gently to those who might not know they need your product or service. Create content that educates, entertains, and adds value to build trust and recognition.
Stage 2 - Problem Awareness: Connect with potential customers by empathizing with their problems. Educate them on possible solutions while subtly presenting your product as a viable option.
Stage 3 - Solution Awareness: Position your product as the best choice with compelling content. Utilize testimonials and strong calls to action to convert interested prospects into loyal customers.

This workshop is perfect for businesses eager to enhance their social media marketing strategy and build genuine connections with their audience. Secure your spot today!

Calling all Manufacturers! The East County EDC invites you to attend our 9th Annual East County Manufacturing Expo at Cuyamaca College on October 1st, 2024 from 11 AM-2 PM. Take advantage of this exclusive opportunity to elevate your company within the local community.

As an exhibitor, you will:
- Showcase Products: Present your latest innovations.
- Recruit Employees: Connect with job seekers and students.
- Inspire Youth: Engage with high school students interested in manufacturing.
- Empower Job Seekers: Highlight career opportunities in the sector.
- Attend Workshops: Participate in targeted business workshops.
- Connect with Learning Opportunities: Explore work-based learning programs.
- Meet Education Providers: Network with local education and training partners.

Don't miss this chance to make a significant impact and drive your business forward at the 2024 East County Manufacturing Expo! Secure your exhibitor ticket now.

Reserve your spot today! Visit our website for more information and to register to exhibit. https://eastcountyedc.org/me/

WEBINAR: Sales Planning- the Comprehensive Blueprint for Building Sales

Date/Time:
General Session 6/7/2024 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Session #2 6/14/2024 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Session #3 6/21/2024 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Session #4 6/28/2024 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Deadline: 6/7/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)

Space is Limited. Register at: https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18218

Program Format: Multi-session Course
Training Topics: Marketing/Sales
Description:


Improve your sales strategy and increase revenue with this four-week sales plan series. This course provides an extensive overview on clarifying your product or service and identifying your target customer, what to include in your business plan, how to create a sales plan, as well as techniques for post-implementation measurement and reinforcement of the sales plan. Participants who complete all four sessions will receive a certificate in business sales.

Instructions:
This is an online course. Zoom links are provided to registered participants via email upon registration and the day of the event.

Ready to elevate your business idea? Join our workshop, "Business Plans That Get Results," designed to help both new and experienced business owners create plans that impress investors, partners, and lenders.

Course Details
Date: 7/10/2024
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 7/10/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3WPku2t

What to Expect:
- Components of an Effective Business Plan: Dive deep into the essential elements of a successful business plan, from executive summaries to financial projections.
- Strategic Planning for Growth: Discover how to strategically set your business on the path to success, identify growth opportunities, and conduct competitive analysis and market research.
- Financial Planning and Projections: Learn to create realistic revenue forecasts, budgets, and financial projections that showcase your business's profitability and growth potential.

Don't miss this opportunity. Register now!

WEBINAR: How Successful Companies Use Social Media
Date: 6/4/2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PDT)
Registration Deadline: 6/4/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)

Space is Limited. Register at: https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18205

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, social media has become an indispensable tool for businesses aiming to thrive and expand. However, navigating the complexities of various platforms can be daunting, and not every strategy leads to profitability. "How Successful Companies Use Social Media" is a class designed to demystify the process and reveal how leading businesses leverage social media to boost their bottom line, rather than drain resources. This class is perfect for business owners, marketing professionals, and anyone looking to enhance their brand's online presence effectively.

Join our free online class "How Successful Companies Use Social Media" and learn how to transform your brand's online presence!

Course Details
Date: 7/9/2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PDT)
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: July 9, 2024, 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3XaQVc3

What You’ll Learn
- Foundational Focus: Discover the first thing every company must prioritize to connect with and retain their audience.
- The Common Misstep: Learn the costly mistake almost every company makes and how to avoid it for better engagement and profitability.
- Successful Companies' Simple Recipe: Decode the straightforward strategy that top companies use to dominate social media across various industries.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to transform your social media approach. Register now and elevate your brand’s online presence!

Are you ready to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? Don’t miss our “Start-Up Essentials: From Concept to Creation” series! Limited space available. Secure your spot now!

Course Details
Date/Time:
General Session 7/9/2024 4:00 PM- 8:00 PM (PDT)
Session #2 7/16/2024 4:00 PM- 8:00 PM (PDT)
Session #3 7/23/2024 4:00 PM- 8:00 PM (PDT)
Session #4 7/30/2024 4:00 PM- 8:00 PM (PDT)
Choose Your Modules: Attend the sessions that interest you most or complete all for a certificate of completion!
Point of Contact: Robyn Carlson (619) 258-3670
Registration Deadline: 7/9/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3ysOCqq

What to Expect
- Foundations of Entrepreneurship: Build your business from the ground up.
- Strategic Planning: Create a solid business plan.
- Legal Essentials: Understand business structures, contracts, and compliance.
- Marketing Mastery: Promote your business and attract customers.
- Financial Fitness: Manage budgets and cash flow.
- Interactive Workshops: Apply concepts to your business idea.

Spaces are limited, so act fast to secure your spot! Let's turn your ideas into success.

WEBINAR: Business Plans That Get Results
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Deadline: 6/12/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Space is Limited. Register at: https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18225
Learn strategies to start or grow your small business while writing a strategic plan that will get you focused in the right direction to capture the attention of investors, partners, and lenders. The “Business Plans That Get Results” workshop is an effective tool to help you brainstorm ideas to start or grow your business. Receive immediate feedback from an experienced entrepreneur. After this workshop, you're eligible to schedule an appointment to meet one-on-one with an SBDC business advisor to complete your business plan.

WEBINAR: Use These 3 Stages Of “Awareness” To Get Customers & Clients Using Social Media
Date: 6/11/2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PDT)
Status: Open - 50 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 6/11/2024 8:00 AM (PDT) -- No Fee

Limited Spots, Click Here To Sign Up- https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18210

We've all heard of that awkward guy who asks someone to marry him when they barely just met.
Believe it or not, many businesses act in the same way on social media.
The issue is that they don't understand the concept of "levels of awareness."
We'll cover the main 3 levels you need to understand so that you can stop being "that guy" and build your business.

Start-Up Essentials: From Concept to Creation
Date/Time:
General Session 7/9/2024 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM (PDT)
Session #2 7/16/2024 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM (PDT)
Session #3 7/23/2024 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM (PDT)
Session #4 7/30/2024 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM (PDT)
Status: Open - 11 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 7/9/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Fee: No Fee
Registration Link: https://conta.cc/3ysOCqq

Point of Contact: East County SBDC (619) 258-3670
Location: East County EDC 127 E Lexington Ave, El Cajon CA 92020

Program Format: Multi-session Course
Training Topics: Business Start-up/Preplanning

COURSE DESCRIPTION
Are you ready to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? Join us for an interactive and informative series on starting your own business. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this series is designed to provide you with the practical tools and knowledge needed to launch and grow a successful business. Over four (4) weeks, participants will learn concept development to reduce failure, the necessity of marketing, the importance of financials, and what is needed to establish the business.

Do you have to attend every module in order to participate? NO! You choose which day(s) you would like to attend. Participants are not required to attend all four modules unless they wish to receive a certificate of completion.

WEBINAR: Build Customer Loyalty with Excellent Customer Service
Date: 5/23/2024
Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (PDT)
Registration Deadline: 5/23/2024 8:00 AM (PDT) -- No Fee
Space is Limited. Register at: https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18231

Learn tips and tricks to improve your customer service skills so that you can retain customers and grow your business!

WEBINAR: Business Plans That Get Results
Date: 5/22/2024
Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (PDT)
Registration Deadline: 5/22/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)
Space is Limited. Register at: https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18224

Learn strategies to start or grow your small business while writing a strategic plan that will get you focused in the right direction to capture the attention of investors, partners, and lenders. The “Business Plans That Get Results” workshop is an effective tool to help you brainstorm ideas to start or grow your business. Receive immediate feedback from an experienced entrepreneur. After this workshop, you're eligible to schedule an appointment to meet one-on-one with an SBDC business advisor to complete your business plan.

WEBINAR: How to Find Business Using Linkedin
Date: 5/21/2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PDT)
Status: Open - 49 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 5/21/2024 8:00 AM (PDT) -- No Fee

Space is Limited. Register at: https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18215

Learn how to do business and make money using Linkedin. This workshop will teach you everything you need to know to effectively leverage Linkedin as the connection tool it was designed to be.

WEBINAR: Cybersecurity Awareness - A Guide to Safeguarding Your Business
Date: 5/16/2024
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (PDT)
Status: Open - 100 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 5/16/2024 8:00 AM (PDT) -- No Fee
Limited Spots, Click Here To Sign Up- https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18236
Learn tips for safe, secure and effective remote working. This class provides information on cyber fundamentals, best practices for protecting your data, and an overview of the various collaborative tools you can use to empower your remote-working capabilities.

WEBINAR: Use These 3 Stages Of “Awareness” To Get Customers & Clients Using Social Media
Date: 5/14/2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PDT)
Status: Open - 48 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 5/14/2024 8:00 AM (PDT) -- No Fee

Limited Spots, Click Here To Sign Up- https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18209

We've all heard of that awkward guy who asks someone to marry him when they barely just met.
Believe it or not, many businesses act in the same way on social media.
The issue is that they don't understand the concept of "levels of awareness."
We'll cover the main 3 levels you need to understand so that you can stop being "that guy" and build your business.

WEBINAR: Business Plans That Get Results
Date: 5/8/2024
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PDT)
Registration Deadline: 5/8/2024 8:00 AM (PDT)

Space is Limited. Register at: https://sdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/login?event=18223

Learn strategies to start or grow your small business while writing a strategic plan that will get you focused in the right direction to capture the attention of investors, partners, and lenders. The “Business Plans That Get Results” workshop is an effective tool to help you brainstorm ideas to start or grow your business. Receive immediate feedback from an experienced entrepreneur. After this workshop, you're eligible to schedule an appointment to meet one-on-one with an SBDC business advisor to complete your business plan.

SANDAG Bike Anywhere Day is back! Join thousands on Thursday, May 16, and ride your bike to work, school, the beach, or…anywhere in the San Diego region (and pick up a free t-shirt at one of our 100 pit stops). Sign up for your chance to win one of three e-bikes, courtesy of Velotric. Lear more at SANDAG.org/bikemonth (para español, visita SANDAG.org/bici).