Business Development Workshops

BWorkshop

Interactive Live and Online Workshops!

The Economic Opportunity and Development Division works with the Cambridge Community Television (CCTV), The Capital Network, Center for Women & Enterprise, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, SCORE Boston, Growth with Google, and local organizations to provide business development programs and services to Cambridge residents, entrepreneurs, and businesses.  

Click here for a list of previously recorded workshops and events that are now available for viewing.

Please note - Registrations close 2 HOURS BEFORE the workshop begins (unless otherwise noted below).  Classes may be cancelled or postponed due to lack of registration. Please call the Division at 617-349-4637 to check the status of a workshop.  

All workshops are free for Cambridge business owners and residents unless otherwise noted. If you have any questions about our workshops, please contact Rona Abrahams at rabrahams@cambridgema.gov or 617/349-4637. 

September

Supplier Diversity Marketing Bootcamp Series

  • Date: Tuesday, September 12, 2023
  • Time: 5:30  –7:30 p.m.
  • Location: Online via Zoom.
  • Description: In this foundational workshop, participants will embark on a transformative journey to discover and crystallize their unique value proposition. Through expert guidance, participants will learn how to clearly articulate their business's essence, target audience, and competitive edge. By the end of this workshop, each participant will have crafted their own compelling Capabilities Statement. This document not only showcases their business but also forms the foundation for their future pitches in various settings, including the City of Cambridge Supplier Diversity Fair.

After Session One, ten (10)  attendees will be able to also take advantage and register for session two - Pitch Perfect, happening on September 19, 2023 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Cambridge City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, Cambridge. In Session Two, participants will learn the art of crafting a compelling narrative about their brand and its value. They will discover how to structure their pitch deck for maximum impact, using data and visuals effectively to support their story. Participants will also gain essential skills to excel in pitching to potential buyers and investors. They will learn to tailor their pitches to different audiences, ensuring their message resonates with diverse stakeholders. This will be an in-person session that provides the perfect setting for pitch practice and valuable feedback.

Steps to Starting Your Own Business

  • Date: Monday, September 25, 2023
  • Time: 5:30 p.m. –  7:30 p.m.
  • Location: Zoom. 
  • Description: This workshop will outline the various steps necessary to start your own business in Cambridge. As part of this workshop, you will: explore the process and learn about the risks and rewards of starting your own business; find out the first steps to start a business; and get an overview or resources available to help you move forward with your business idea. Presented by the Economic Opportunity and Development Division. Free to all.

  • Registration is required. Click here to register. Registration will close on September 22, 2023.