Tips and resources for your business

Blog

Blog

  • All
  • Aurora Team
  • Awards
  • blog
  • Business Tips
  • City
  • Consultants/Trainers
  • Customers
  • Disaster Mitigation
  • Economic Recovery
  • Events
  • Finances
  • Funding
  • Procurement
  • Resources
  • SBDC Programs
  • Solutions
  • South Metro Team
  • Veterans
  • Webinars
  • Workshops
All
  • All
  • Aurora Team
  • Awards
  • blog
  • Business Tips
  • City
  • Consultants/Trainers
  • Customers
  • Disaster Mitigation
  • Economic Recovery
  • Events
  • Finances
  • Funding
  • Procurement
  • Resources
  • SBDC Programs
  • Solutions
  • South Metro Team
  • Veterans
  • Webinars
  • Workshops
blogFundingResources

Funding Options Panel

Read More
blogFunding

Aurora Small Business Grant

For inquiries about your application status concerning the recent Aurora Small Business Grant Rescue Program, contact:  720-892-0620 | ARPAGrants@auroragov.org (program is now closed). Para consultas sobre el reciente Programa de Subsidios de Rescate para Pequeños Negocios de Aurora, llame al 720-892-0620 o ARPAGrants@auroragov.org (el programa ya esta cerrado). Impacted by COVID-19?  Apply for the Aurora Small Business Grant from June 27 to July 13, 2022, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act.  Qualifying businesses operating in March 2020 or earlier may apply for a grant of up to $10,000. Qualifying pandemic startups …

Read More
blogWorkshops

Strategic Management Tools

We encourage existing businesses to take this series of four webinars. A consultant will review your business model or your completed short and flexible business plan at the conclusion of the series. There is time between sessions to complete assignments. Four Thursdays, 1:00 – 2:30 PM June 2, 16, 30 and July 14, 2022

Read More
blogWebinars

Business Boost Program

For micro businesses: Give yourself a Business Boost!Attend a virtual summer series of trainings beginning June 14th to help build a basic foundation for your entry into the world of entrepreneurialism.  Learn about digital business tools and processes to increase operational efficiencies.   This program is designed to enhance the operations and scalability of small/micro-businesses to thrive in a digital world.  In cooperation with the Community College of Aurora, Arapahoe County, Douglas County, and Arapahoe/Douglas Works! …

Read More
Aurora TeamblogCity

Aurora Safety and Security Grant

$3 million Aurora Safety and Security Grant Program Funds allocated to eligible applicants may be used to make physical changes related to lighting, alarms, cameras, windows, entrance doors and mirrors, allowing law enforcement to more efficiently and effectively respond to public safety issues. The installation work will be awarded to city-approved, local contractors that can answer a call to service that has been posted.  Eligible applicants will go through a Safety and Security Assessment with …

Read More
FundingResources

EIDL Repayment

Manage your EIDL:  Learn how to monitor the status of your COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), make payments, and request a loan increase.   Create an account in SBA’s Capital Access Financial System (CAFS) to monitor your loan status. You must have a funded loan to access the CAFS system.    Enrollment and access instructions for borrowers may be found here.  Also, learn how to make a payment on your SBA loan or check your account balance and due date — click …

Read More
blogDisaster MitigationResources

SBA Declaration of Identity Theft

Do you suspect fraud related to an SBA loan?Please complete an SBA Declaration of Identity Theft.Note, also, the following websites:Office of the Inspector GeneralFederal Trade Commission IdentityTheft.govDept. of Justice National Center for Disaster Fraud

Read More
blogResources

Revisit the BizBeat from this site

The BizBeat is the Aurora-South Metro SBDC’s e-newsletter.  If you ever want to check back to take a peek at some of the stories and resource links, just hover over the Blog tab on the menu bar and click on BizBeat.  The BizBeat is intended to provide you with current resources and updates on small business information and news, from funding to training opportunities, success stories, consulting expertise and more!  To be added to the BizBeat e-list, …

Read More
blogResources

Englewood Small Business Resource Expo

The annual Englewood Small Business Resource Expo, coming up Wed., Sept. 22nd, 8:30-9:30 AM, is abbreviated this year and virtual, and will provide you with an update on the following small business resources: – Welcome – – Mayor Linda Olson, City of Englewood – Greater Englewood Chamber Overview – David Carroll, Executive Director – Englewood Economic Development Overview    – Darren Hollingsworth, Economic Development Manager, City of Englewood – Aurora-South Metro SBDC Overview – Marcia McGilley, Executive Director – Client Testimonial/Guest Speaker – …

Read More
blogWebinars

Entrenamiento para negocios de cuidado de niños basados en casa ¡Gratis!

Partes 1-6: miércoles, 15, 22, 29 de septiembre y 6, 13, 20 de octubre6:00 – 8:30 PM — seminarios virtuales — ¡Gratis! OBJETIVOS DEL TALLER: En esta clase Usted aprenderá técnicas y estrategias para manejar las finanzas, el mercadeo y las operaciones de su negocio. Establecerá su modelo de Negocio Aprenderá a maximizar sus ingresos Entenderá sus Costos y aprenderá a minimizar sus gastos Entenderá como utilizar los medios sociales para promocionar su negocio  Registración en línea:  https://bit.ly/3wvvuSD   …

Read More
blogWebinars

Home-Based Child Care Business Training – Free

“Thank you to the Aurora-South Metro SBDC for the wonderful Home-Based Childcare program.  I will start working in all the changes that I have to make to become a more successful business. I will definitely will set an appointment for help along the way.  Thank you again for this remarkable training.”  – Jessica Matheson, Adventures in Bethel, Inc., Parker LEADING EDGE Home-Based Child Care Business Training – FREESix-part series starts Tues., 7/13/21, 6PM – 8:30 PMSponsored …

Read More
blogEconomic Recovery

Climber Fund – videos en ingles y español

The CLIMBER (Colorado Loans to Increase Mainstreet Business Economic Recovery) Loan Fund provides up to $250 million in working capital loans to Colorado small businesses negatively impacted by the pandemic through 2023. Small businesses with 5-99 employees that were financially stable before the pandemic but now need help to survive may apply for working capital loans between $30,000 and $500,000.  Learn more about the CLIMBER Loan Program.   Find a participating lender to start your application.   Watch the video below with Richard Lewis, …

Read More
blogEconomic Recovery

Current Recovery Funds

There are excellent opportunities for businesses that have been negatively affected by the pandemic.  They include the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL – still open through December 31, 2021), the newer Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) and Shuttered Venues Operating Grant (SVOG), and the State of Colorado’s CLIMBER Loan Fund.  The Paycheck Protection Program funds have been exhausted.  Read on about each program. SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) — www.sba.gov/eidl  — Apply directly through the SBA. The deadline is December 31, 2021.   AFTER applying …

Read More
blog

Where is the Start-Up Money?

Where is the Start-Up Money? As we all have heard, there are grant and loan funds available: “billions for small business from the Federal government”.   Yes, that is the case for existing businesses.  The money has gone to the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL – still open through December 31, 2021), the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP – still open through May 31, 2021), and the newer Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) and Shuttered Venues Operating Grant (SVOG).  The State of Colorado has …

Read More
blogSBDC Programs

#SBDCDay, March 17, 2021

Over half of SBDC clients nationwide start a new business in their first year of working with their local SBDC, and 95% of SBDC clients recommend their local SBDCs. In 2020, during unprecedented challenges, SBDCs across the country served over 500,000 small businesses and entrepreneurs. AND, closer to home, Aurora-South Metro SBDC clients give us over a 95% satisfaction rating.  Visit https://americassbdc.org. What are you waiting for? Contact us today!303-326-8686 | info@Aurora-SouthMetroSBDC.com #SBDCDay Coming up on …

Read More
blogResourcesWebinars

Preparing For Taxes, English & Spanish

REGISTRATION IN ENGLISH: March 17 REGISTRACIÓN: 18 de marzo

Read More
blogEconomic RecoveryResources

Douglas County Small Business Expo

Douglas County is host to this Small Business Expo, a resource and economic update in conjunction with Arapahoe/Douglas Works! and the Aurora-South Metro Small Business Development Center (SBDC).    Hear from the U.S. Small Business Administration Colorado District Office, small business lenders and several small business programs on Monday, February 22nd, 1PM – 2PM Keynote Speaker: Patrick Holwell, Arapahoe/Douglas Works!  “The State of the Douglas County Economy” Receive up-to-date information on helpful resources to support small …

Read More
blogEconomic RecoveryWebinars

LEADING EDGE

STRATEGIC PLANNING IN 2021 Entrepreneurs with a completed flexible business plan are more likely to succeed.  LEADING EDGE™ is the business planning flagship program for entrepreneurs in the State of Colorado. LEADING EDGE™ is a course designed to help entrepreneurs create a short and flexible business plan that will help guide your business as you get underway. The fee-based series will take place online with SBDC certified instructors. Participants learn how to analyze economic opportunities and risk …

Read More
blogWorkshops

Calling New Entrepreneurs

We recommend “Fired Up: I Want to Start a Business!” as a first step — listed regularly on our training page:  www.Aurora-SouthMetroSBDC.com/training. After Fired Up, learn the essentials for launching, marketing and financing your entrepreneurial dream. Attend the upcoming four consecutive sessions in the LEADING EDGE™  Start-Up Essentials:  Launching Essentials, Marketing Essentials, Cash Flow Essentials and a new Business Plan Essentials. See dates and times at Aurora-SouthMetroSBDC.com/training. Receive one-on-one virtual consulting between sessions. Pre-register for all the details, …

Read More
blogDisaster MitigationEconomic Recovery

Keep Up with COVID-19 Business Information

The bill SB20B-001 provides $57 million in direct aid, grants, and annual fee waivers to struggling small businesses and also creates grant programs and allocates funds specifically for art and cultural organizations as well as minority-owned businesses.  Keep informed about funding programs at the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade (OEDIT)  (https://oedit.colorado.gov).  You may wish to read the bill details at COVID-19 Relief Small And Minority Businesses Arts Organizations | Colorado General Assembly (https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb20b-001) = = = …

Read More
FinancesResourcesSolutions

Kiva Crowdsourced Loans

Kiva is a non-profit that expands access to capital for entrepreneurs around the world. More than 2.5 million people have raised over $1 billion on Kiva. Could you be next? * Up to $15,000 at 0% interest, no fees* Free marketing and new customers* A great resource for start-ups AND existing, sophisticated businesses.   Especially during the time of COVID-19, businesses are using Kiva as emergency financing.  Enjoy learning about Kiva over lunch on Monday, December …

Read More
blogConsultants/TrainersResources

Clases e Información en Español

Profundizando en los Peligros de Construcción y Excavación de ZanjasParte 1 y 2:  el 26 y 27 de octubre | 5PM-7PM | Gratuito | Connect2DOT.org Hacer clic en el botón para registrarse Por favor pre-registrece para recibir información y recordatorios.Para mas información llama al: 303-326-8808. Hacer clic en el botón para registrarse Para Ayuda en Español Información en Español

Read More
blogDisaster MitigationEconomic Recovery

Business Conversations

Pivoting and Reopening Your Business for Success  Recommended:   Take each of the one-hour “Business Conversations” webinars for a complete look at how to pivot your business and reopen during the pandemic.  Bring your best practices and questions.  There will be plenty of time for discussion.  Titles include: Are You Financially Prepared for Best and Worst Case Pandemic Scenarios? What Should I Avoid in Digital Marketing? How Do I Transition to a Virtual Workplace? Is My Blog …

Read More
blogDisaster MitigationEconomic Recovery

PPP Flexibility Act and EIDL

  NOTE:  The EIDL loan application must be submitted by December 31, 2020:SBA – Disaster Loan Assistance (https://covid19relief.sba.gov) SBA Coronavirus Pandemic Disaster Loans Comparison (click here)PPP / EIDL comparison chart (click here).The EIDL and Advance is open for all small businesses again: www.sba.gov/disaster. Paycheck Protection Program (www.sba.gov/ppp)(updated) — Application Deadline: August 8th.Applications  are closed. Recent changes (summary from SBA June, 9, 2020):* Extends the maturity for loans made on or after June 5, 2020 from two …

Read More
blogDisaster MitigationEconomic Recovery

Return To Work – The New Normal

Alternative Funding Sources (requires a little research but may prove beneficial).Keep an eye on the state site for more opportunities: https://choosecolorado.com.Stay up-to-date here: www.ColoradoSBDC.com/covid. Tri-County Health Department Guidance for Businesses: link hereReopen Your Business — Energize Colorado linkPurchase PPE and other Supplies — Energize Colorado linkSCORE’s Checklist for reopening a general business during the COVID-19 pandemicColorado Department of Public Health and Environment contact page linkCDC’s Signage (free downloads). = = = = = = = …

Read More
blogDisaster MitigationResources

Virtual Coffee with the SBDC Director

Join the SBDC Executive Director, Marcia McGilley, for a cup of “Virtual Coffee” at 9AM (specific dates at the link below). Bring your business questions and small business assistance needs during this challenging time. Discussion topics will be announced. Instructions for the online connection will be sent in advance of the call. Please pre-register for all webinars at www.Aurora-SouthMetroSBDC.com/training. Remember that the SBDC offers virtual webinars and consulting, too. “Cares Act and Alternative Funding Sources” …

Read More
blogDisaster MitigationResources

SBA – CARES Act Programs, COVID-19 Resources

The Colorado SBDC Network is monitoring information about COVID-19. Business-related information is below, as well as trusted information about Coronavirus (COVID-19), please scroll and review the links: The Colorado SBDC — Stay current: www.coloradosbdc.org/covid.Alternative Funding Sources — A resource list compiled and updated by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT): Click here for the resource list — updated regularly. CARES Act and Alternative Funding webinar with David Benavides with the U.S. …

Read More
blogWorkshops

Calling New Entrepreneurs

Learn the essentials for launching, marketing and financing your entrepreneurial dream. Attend the upcoming three consecutive sessions in the free Start-Up Track: Launching Essentials, Marketing Essentials, Cash Flow Essentials and a new Business Plan session. See dates and times at Aurora-SouthMetroSBDC.com/training. Receive one-on-one virtual consulting between sessions. Pre-register for all the details, and you will receive updates, including specific instructions on how to JOIN the online classes. We recommend “Fired Up: I Want to Start …

Read More
blogWorkshops

Cottage Food Safety Training

Obtain your three-year certification that meets the food safety training requirement for Colorado Cottage Foods Act established and supported by the Colorado State Dept. of Health & Environment. Participants learn food safety guidelines and the specifics for operating a small home based cottage food business from a home kitchen. Learn about the most current Colorado Cottage Food Act and get a food safety certificate that applies no matter where you live in Colorado. It’s coming …

Read More
blogVeterans

Veterans: Meet Employers – 2/18

The 2019 HIRE Vets Medallion Program is now accepting applications! Learn more and apply online at www.HIREVets.gov. • The Award highlights companies and organizations committed to hiring and retaining America’s veterans in good, family-sustaining careers • The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is the only federal-level veterans’ employment award that recognizes job creators • The application deadline is April 30, 2019 • Award recipients will receive a certificate and digital images of the medallion for use …

Read More
blogProcurement

Mortenson 2020 Trade Partnership Open House 3/19

Read More
blogWorkshops

All-New Start-Up Tracks

The Aurora-South Metro SBDC has started a new set of workshops for our clients — a three-part series of “Tracks” — the first being for the Start-Up entrepreneur. If you have a solid business idea or are less than one year in business, this Start-Up Track is for you and for any entrepreneur who has started a business but needs to get new clients and start making a profit. Start-Up Track 1: Launching Essentials will …

Read More
City

4 Series de Clases Abiertas a la Comunidad

Éxito Para Negocios 4 SERIES DE CLASES ABIERTAS A LA COMUNIDAD 1. Pilares de Mercadotecnia Lunes 14 de octubre | 7:00-8:30 PM Estrategias de acuerdo a: – El Producto – El Precio – La Plaza – La Promoción 2. Prevención de Riesgos Lunes 28 de octubre | 7:00-8:30 PM – Como proteger sus activos contra perdidas – Como protegerse contra demandas legales, daños a terceros, perdida de ingresos  3. Empoderamiento Financiero Lunes 11 de noviembre …

Read More
Resources

Meet Your Small Business Resource Partners

Douglas County is host to the Small Business Resource & Lenders Fair in conjunction with the  Aurora-South Metro Small Business Development Center (SBDC).  Hear from the Small Business Administration, the Office of Economic Development and International Trade and small business lenders.   Representatives from the following nonprofit and government organizations will get you up-to-date on all the helpful resources each is offering to support small businesses:  Information Booths  • U.S. Small Business Administration              • SCORE …

Read More
Events

Making Cents of Marketing

Making Cents of Marketing Tuesday, October 1st | 9AM – 11AM Instructor:  Cathren Kayce Location:  Aurora Municipal Center, 2nd floor Aspen conference room Cost:  $15/person Please pre-register here in order to receive updates and reminders. Fee-based workshops are payable in advance via PayPal; see your registration confirmation for the link; if paying at the door, bring exact cash or check payable to the SBDC host “City of Aurora”.

Read More
Events

LEADING EDGE in Spanish — in Aurora

The Aurora-South Metro SBDC is excited to announce the first LEADING EDGE Strategic Planning Series to be held in Spanish in northwest Aurora presented by Mi Casa Resource Center: Éxito Para Negocios Cada lunes, 5:30-8:30 PM | 23 de Septiembre al 9 de diciembre Moorhead Recreation Center | 2390 Havana St. | Aurora, CO  80010 Si tiene preguntas o desea inscribirse, visite: MiCasaResourceCenter.org/Calendar llame al 303-539-5670 A 12-week program taught in Spanish for aspiring business …

Read More
Finances

The Cost of an Employee

Many small business owners do not have a firm grasp on the cost of an employee.  The cost is greater than the wage or salary you agree to pay the new employee.  The SBA’s article by Barbara Weltman, an attorney and small business advocate, is worth the short read at the SBA’s blog.    The SBDC is partially funded by the SBA. = = = = = Although we always recommend the services of a …

Read More
blogEvents

Government Contracting Workshop Series

The government contracting workshop series hosted by the Aurora-South Metro SBDC and sponsored by Connect2DOT and the Minority Business Office is wrapping up for 2019.  The workshops range from the perspective of a business wanting to discover the market potential for their business and what the government buys to the existing business wanting to become better at obtaining and maintaining government contracts. “Construction Scheduling & Project Management” is coming up THIS FRIDAY, September 6th, 9AM …

Read More
Events

Expand Your Business with Exporting

Are you thinking about expanding to markets outside the USA? Already exporting? This upcoming Small Business Administration/ Englewood Chamber of Commerce workshop will give you insights and connections. Don’t miss this chance to ask questions and get answers from the experts!

Read More
City

This Is Aurora

With Census 2020 just around the corner, the numbers are about to change. In the meantime, here is a current snapshot of the city of Aurora.  Click the image to download a PDF.  #ThisIsAurora #2020Census

Read More
City

Aurora Global Fest

Global Fest is THIS Saturday, August 17th, 11AM – 6PM Aurora Municipal Center | Great Lawn | 15151 E. Alameda Pkwy. | Aurora  80012 Global Fest is…a celebration of the cultures and communities that call Aurora home. It is a celebration of diversity, inclusion and a  great summer multicultural experience.  This unique Global event…is sure to entertain all ages. Included is a kids area, musical and dance performances, a fashion show, a parade of nations, …

Read More
Resources

Look Before You Lease

Do you plan to sign a lease without doing some research?  Not a good idea.  A common question at the SBDC:  I signed a lease, but I need to get out of the lease.  Can you help me?  The lease is a binding legal document.   So, we implore the new business owner, “Look Before You Lease!”  People tend to act on impulse, but YOU are a savvy business owner.  This workshop may be your ticket …

Read More
Solutions

SBIR Road Tour

Seeding America’s Future Innovations (TM) Friday, August 16th, 7:15 AM – 3:45 PM Attention:  Small Technology Firms, Technology Entrepreneurs, Innovators, Researchers The SBA SBIR Road Tour is coming to Colorado for the first time this year, and is stopping in Boulder. The SBIR Road Tour is a national outreach to provide technology funding opportunity through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.  Together these programs represent $2.5 billion in …

Read More
SBDC Programs

Navigating CDOT Systems

Do you want to know more about how to do business with the Colorado Department of Transportation?  Here’s your chance.  There’s a free webinar TOMORROW, July 17th, 11AM – 12PM — Navigating CDOT Systems, presented by the Program Manager for the Connect2DOT program, Cathy Kramer. You will receive an email from GoToMeeting with a link to join the webinar upon registration today. Otherwise, call in tomorrow morning, 303-326-8686, and the SBDC staff will forward the …

Read More
Solutions

SOS – Bogus Solicitations

The Colorado Secretary of State’s office today is alerting small business owners about potentially misleading notices requesting an extra fee for a third party to file business documents. The Secretary of State’s office has received multiple reports of these potentially deceptive or misleading solicitations being sent to Colorado businesses. The Colorado Secretary of State maintains an easy to use online filing system for businesses. Use of a third party to complete filings with the Secretary …

Read More
Aurora TeamConsultants/TrainersSouth Metro Team

Yoda Has Left The Building

It’s official — Small Business Specialist, Employee of the Year, Consultant of the Year, and Aurora Small Business Advocate of the Year is officially retired now — and still happier than a millionaire.  We will miss him.  He’s shown below with Glenn Plagens, Director of Business Support and Rural Prosperity, and to the right Chuck is with his colleague and long-time consultant Jim Olp.  Jim gave Chuck his ‘framed’ million!      We are excited …

Read More
Events

SKILLFUL Talent Lunch ‘N Learn

The Aurora Chamber and Arapahoe/Douglas Works! present  SKILLFUL® Talent Series Lunch ‘N Learn In this four-part training, you’ll learn how to adopt a skills-based approach to people management through activity-driven workshops using digital tools and free templates to set your company up for success. Businesses adopting this approach reduce staff vacancy by up to 70%, diversify their staff, double retention rates, and increase staff productivity on average by 22%. June 11th, 12PM – 3PM SKILLFUL Talent …

Read More
Resources

10th Women’s Small Business Conference

  10th Annual Women’s Small Business Conference   Thursday, July 18th | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM   Sky Ute Casino Resort | Ignacio, CO   $65/Attendee | $300/Exhibitor   Join the Colorado Small Business Development Center Network   and breakthrough to excellence with a day of educational seminars,   one-on-one consulting, valuable networking opportunities,   and exciting speakers! Sheri Tingey, Owner, Alpaca Raft Alpacka Raft started in the fall of 2000 as a collaboration between …

Read More
Events

R&D Tax Credit Program

TechSource is putting on a free, statewide webinar: How R&D Credits Could Benefit Your Business June 18, 10AM – 11AM The R&D tax credit program reimburses up to 10 percent of your Research & Development expenses.  Learn how to maximize your refund! Presented by Thierry Lepoutre, President, Boostr Consulting, LLC Thierry has over 20 years experience providing consulting services to help innovative companies successfully claim R& D tax credits and obtain refunds from the government. …

Read More
Events

Englewood Creates May 23

Englewood Creates endeavors to foster friendships and potential partnerships between creatives and small businesses throughout the Englewood area. This event will serve as a platform to educate attendees of tools, grants and small business resources, from the Aurora South Metro Small Business Development Center and City of Englewood’s Economic Development Department. Guest speakers will include Englewood Mayor Linda Olson and Council Member Amy Martinez. The event will be held May 23rd, 5PM – 8PM Black …

Read More
Skip to content