It’s Game Time: Kansas City Workshops, Classes to Help You Start a Business

A board game piece sits on the start

It’s Game Time: Kansas City Workshops, Classes to Help You Start a Business

It’s time! Time to kick the tires on that business idea, and time to kick start your entrepreneurial journey in one of the best places in the country for entrepreneurs and small business owners. With KCSourceLink’s Resource Partners, you have access to the skills and info you need for business success.

In Kansas City, you’ll find a ton of free or low-cost classes and workshops designed to help you get the entrepreneurial show on the road. Whether you want to check your business concept, figure out financials or make the most of your marketing, our Resource Partners have you covered. Explore these upcoming events for new entrepreneurs.

1 Million Cups Kansas City

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs who want to connect with other business owners and gain insight on how to improve their ventures.

What is it? Local entrepreneurs give short presentations about their startups to potential partners, mentors and investors. Then, there’s a discussion with feedback and questions. The people presenting and those listening learn about what it takes to build a successful business.

When: Every Wednesday, 9-10 a.m.

Where: Online and Plexpod Westport Commons, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

1 Million Cups of Lawrence, Kansas | THE CRUNCH

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs who want to connect with other people in the business community and learn how to improve their ventures.

What is it? Network, enjoy coffee and hear local entrepreneurs give short presentations about their businesses. Discussion, feedback and questions follow. Presenters and those listening all learn about the entrepreneurial ecosystem and what it takes to build a successful business.

When: Every Wednesday, 9-10 a.m.

Where: Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center, Lawrence, Kansas

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Keystone CoLAB | Keystone Sessions

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs, corporate leaders and community members interested in new ideas.

What is it? Network and learn from three 60-minute sessions on unique topics. Formats range from expert panels to dynamic speakers. This casual environment is designed to inspire and help people connect across industries, interests and talents.

When: Every Wednesday, 5 – 8 p.m.

Where: Keystone CoLAB, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Pathway Financial Education | Managing Debt

Who’s it for? People who want to establish healthy financial habits.

What is it? Your personal debt can have a huge impact on your small business. This monthly session is dedicated to effective debt management. Whether you’re dealing with credit card debt, student loans or other obligations, this class is designed to help you take control.

When: Third Thursday of the month, 12 – 1 p.m.

Where: Online and Pathway Financial Education, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

VetBiz | Activate

Who’s it for? Veterans who have a business or a business idea.

What is it? Jump-start your entrepreneurial journey with this virtual cohort. Weekly sessions offer formal instruction from industry leaders and guidance from guest speakers. Topics include cultivating a business mindset, understanding your target customer and small business financial management.

When: Thursdays, 6 – 8 p.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Square One Small Business Services | Biz Action Plan Workshop

Who’s it for? People who want to see where their business idea might go.

What is it? This five-week, activity-based workshop will help you assess your business idea. During the class, you’ll put together a simple, actionable business plan. At the end, you’ll meet one-on-one with the instructor to discuss the next steps to reaching your goals.

When: Fridays, May 17 – June 14, Noon – 2:30 p.m.

Where: Online and Mid-Continent Public Library Colbern Road Library Center, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Pathway Financial Education | Credit 101

Who’s it for? People new to the world of credit or those looking to repair or improve their credit.

What is it? Master the basics of credit and take control of your financial future. Learn how credit works and get guidance on how to navigate the complexities of credit with confidence. Topics include credit reports, credit scores and practical tips.

When: Fourth Thursday of the month, Noon – 1 p.m. or 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Online and Pathway Financial Education, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Square One Small Business Services | Create Your 30-Day Social Media Calendar

Who’s it for? Business owners who need help with content creation and scheduling.

What is it? Learn how to brainstorm, create and schedule social media for your business. This class will explore the difference between content that provides value and content that has a call to action. You’ll brainstorm content ideas and organize and plan a content calendar.

When: Tuesday, May 28, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Mid-Continent Public Library Colbern Road Library Center, Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Square One Small Business Services | Creating Your Brand

Who’s it for? Business owners who need to get specific about who their customers are.

What is it? This session will explore the relationship between business and customers. You’ll learn how to determine your business story and how to effectively communicate it to your customers. After this workshop, you’ll be able to state exactly who your brand is, what you do and why you do it.

When: Wednesday, May 29, 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Where: Online and Mid-Continent Public Library Withers Branch, Liberty, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Everything HR — for new and existing businesses

Who’s it for? Business owners who need to prepare before making their first hire.

What is it? This session provides workable strategies to manage HR. Topics include when to hire, HR objectives and onboarding. You’ll learn about employee handbooks, discipline, discrimination, payroll, benefits and more.

When: Thursday, May 30, 9-11 a.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Access to Money

Who’s it for? Business owners who are ready to seek a loan or investment.

What is it? This daylong event will introduce you to resources in KC and answer your funding questions. More than 20 experts will offer keynotes as well as panel discussions. Interactive events will help you explore critical funding topics that most fit your needs. Pitch competitions are part of the day as well.

When: Friday, May 31, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: Kauffman Foundation Conference Center, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: $39

Apply here.

 

Pathway Financial Education | Benefits 101: Retirement and Health Care

Who’s it for? Small business owners who need to plan for retirement.

What is it? Learn about the importance of retirement planning for small business owners. This session will explore various retirement plans and help you find the right fit for your business.

When: Tuesday, June 4, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Online and Pathway Financial Education, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

The Toolbox | Essential Steps to Launching Your Business

Who’s it for? People thinking about starting a business.

What is it? This session will demystify the path to startup success. Learn the steps to get from concept to launch, as well as different legal structures, registering your business and tax responsibilities. You’ll also learn how to avoid common new business pitfalls.

When: Tuesday, June 4 or Tuesday, July 2, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: The Toolbox, Kansas City, Kansas

Cost: Free

Apply here for June 4. Apply here for July 2.

 

APEX Accelerators of Missouri – Kansas City | Government Contracting 101

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs interested in working with the government.

What is it? This session will cover the first steps to winning government contracts. Learn how to get started with federal, state and local government registrations and certifications. After attending this seminar, a business is eligible for services from APEX (formerly Missouri Procurement Technical Assistance Centers).

When: Wednesday, June 5, 9 – 10:30 a.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Business Credit

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs who need capital.

What is it? Whether you’re paying business expenses out of your own pocket or just flat out need more funding, this webinar is for you. Learn how to set up and build your business credit. This session will discuss using business credit as leverage with investors and how to prepare for credit limits.

When: Thursday, June 6, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

SCORE KC | Simple Steps for Starting Your Business – Basics

Who’s it for? Aspiring entrepreneurs who want to explore business ownership.

What is it? This workshop will provide an overview of the skills and tools you need to start a business. You’ll learn the advantages and disadvantages of owning a business, as well as the most profitable form for your business. The session will also cover organization, marketing, cash flow and funding sources.

When: Saturday, June 8, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Pathway Financial Education | Accessing Capital & Building Banking Partners

Who’s it for? Small business owners who need to learn about the loan process.

What is it? This two-part series will prepare you to navigate the loan application process. You’ll understand lender criteria and risk assessments and be able to plan for capital access realistically.

When: Tuesday, June 11, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Online and Pathway Financial Education, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Pathway Financial Education | Budgeting & Saving

Who’s it for? People who need to learn effective money management.

What is it? Budgeting and saving are essential skills for anyone who wants to take control of their finances or start a business. These reoccurring sessions provide practical advice on how to create a realistic spending plan and prioritize expenses.

When: Second Thursday of the month, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Online and Pathway Financial Education, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Financial Statement Basics

Who’s it for? Small business owners who want to learn about basic financial concepts.

What is it? Use plain language to explore financial concepts. This workshop will discuss profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements and how they work together. You’ll also learn about software like QuickBooks and how to track business finances.

When: Saturday, June 15, 9:30 a.m. – Noon

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Sources of Funding

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs who want to explore options for funding their businesses.

What is it? Learn about different sources of funding and the criteria for each. This session will cover traditional sources like bank loans and investors. It will also discuss nontraditional sources like equipment leasing, accounts receivable financing, crowdfunding and more.

When: Saturday, June 15, 12:30 – 2 p.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Financial Projections

Who’s it for? People who need to assess their business profitability and establish financial goals.

What is it? Financial projections can help you set goals and stay on track. This workshop will help you understand the process behind balance sheets, income statements and cash flow statements. Learn how these documents fit into a business plan and how they can help if you’re seeking funding.

When: Saturday, June 15, 2:15 – 4 p.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Business Law and Related Tax Topics for Emerging Business

Who’s it for? Business owners who need to know how and when to utilize legal advice.

What is it? This session will explore the legal considerations of forming, operating and expanding your business. Topics include tax law considerations, governing documents, employment issues, risk mitigation, sales tax and more.

When: Tuesday, June 18, 9 – 11 a.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Missouri SBDC at UMKC | IRS Resources for Small Businesses

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs who want to be smart about taxes.

What is it? Learn about tax tools and resources designed to support small businesses. This workshop will cover how to avoid common tax mistakes, safeguard information and choose a paid tax preparer. A Q&A session will ensure your questions are addressed.

When: Thursday, June 20, 11 a.m. – Noon

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Grant Prep Boot Camp

Who’s it for? Business owners who want to know how to research, prepare, write and apply for grants.

What is it? Target and organize grants to further your mission. Topics in this webinar include how to access grant information for free, filter through 990 returns and get around “invite only” roadblocks. You’ll also learn how to create a system so you don’t have to start over with each application.

When: Friday, June 21, 9 – 11 a.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Market Research

Who’s it for? Current or future business owners who need to understand their ideal customer.

What is it? Save time and headaches by knowing exactly what your target market is. In this webinar, you’ll learn the basics of market research, how to conduct it with current and potential customers and how to use sources like industry reports and government statistics to get the info you need.

When: Tuesday, June 25, 9 – 11 a.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Pathway Financial Education | Building a Sales Pipeline

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs who need a consistent flow of business.

What is it? Learn the art of building and maintaining a client base. This session will explore how referrals, positive interactions and strategic discounts can help you build your business. Gain confidence in managing client relationships effectively.

When: Tuesday, June 25, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Online and Pathway Financial Education, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

SCORE KC | Email and CRM (Customer Relationship Management)

Who’s it for? Leaders who want to turn prospects into customers.

What is it? This session will explore the most cost-effective marketing tool: email marketing. Learn how email and CRM work together and how your business can use them to build relationships and increase sales.

When: Thursday, June 27, 9 – 11 a.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Holy Rosary Credit Union | Mastering Business Financial Management: A Comprehensive Workshop

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs who need to elevate their financial skills.

What is it? Protect and grow your business with key financial management techniques. In this session, you’ll learn about effective bookkeeping, loan application strategies and optimizing cash flow. You’ll leave with the tools to support the growth of your business.

When: Thursday, June 27, 11:45 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: Don Bosco Community Center, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Missouri SBDC at UMKC | Pitching to Investors

Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs who need to prepare for meeting investors.

What is it? In this workshop, you’ll learn what investors need to know and want to see before providing capital to a business.

When: Thursday, July 18, 4:30 – 7 p.m.

Where: Missouri SBDC at UMKC, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: $49

Apply here.

 

Missouri SBDC at UMKC | Myth Busters: Entrepreneurial Edition

Who’s it for? Aspiring entrepreneurs who want to explore business ownership.

What is it? This session will answer pressing questions like “Are grants real?” and “Do I need a business plan?” Learn how to put your next steps in order. You’ll leave this class with an action plan to continue your journey to business ownership.

When: Tuesday, July 23, 9 a.m. – Noon

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

Holy Rosary Credit Union | Navigating Social Media for Your Business

Who’s it for? Business owners who need to boost the online visibility of their ventures.

What is it? Explore strategies for effective social media management. This session will cover crafting compelling content, understanding analytics and other practical skills. You’ll leave understanding how to enhance the online presence of your business.

When: Thursday, July 25, 11:45 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: Don Bosco Community Center, Kansas City, Missouri

Cost: Free

Apply here.

 

More resources for KC small businesses

These classes are just the beginning! The entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kansas City is awesome. More than 230 organizations and programs are here to help you meet your business goals. And you can find them all at KCSourceLink:

  • Classes & Events Calendar: This ever-expanding list includes all the area happenings for KC entrepreneurs. Classes are free or very low-cost.
  • Personal Action Plan: Get a customized to-do list to help you research and open your venture or clear that next business hurdle. Our Network Navigators will create this priceless resource for you for free that will connect you with the KC experts who can help, no matter what stage you’re business is at.
  • Resource Navigator: This tool includes 230+ organizations that can help you meet the people, gain the skills and get the funding your business needs.

 

Thumbnail image by 12photostory on Unsplash.

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