Start or grow a business for good.

Schedule

Virtual Workshops

Build your foundation with four live virtual workshops designed to move your business forward. Each session is led by experienced professionals who work directly with small and local businesses across Arizona.

Getting Loan-Ready & Funding Smart
Virtual on Zoom
Thurs, March 19, 6:00-7:30 PM AZ time (English)

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “ready” for a loan, this workshop is for you. We’ll walk through what lenders look for, what documents you may need, and how to strengthen your financial profile over time. You’ll leave with clarity about your options and concrete next steps, whether you plan to apply now or later.

SST Workshop 2
Jose Yanez SST26 Speaker Card

Workshop Speaker:
Jose Yanez
Vice President, Senior Business Consultant
Chase Business Banking

Preparándote para un Préstamo y Tomando Decisiones Inteligentes sobre Financiamiento
Virtual por Zoom
Martes 17 de marzo, 6:00–7:30 PM hora de AZ (En español)

Si alguna vez te has preguntado si ya estás listo/a para solicitar un préstamo, este taller es para ti. Conversaremos sobre qué buscan los prestamistas, qué documentos podrías necesitar y cómo fortalecer tu perfil financiero con el tiempo. Te llevarás claridad sobre tus opciones y próximos pasos concretos, ya sea que planees solicitar ahora o más adelante.

Laura Suarez SST26 Speaker Card

Facilitadora del Taller:
Laura Suárez
Vicepresidenta y Consultora Senior de Negocios
Coaching for Impact
Chase Business Banking

Marketing That Brings Customers In
Thurs, March 26, 9:00–10:30 AM AZ time (English)

Marketing doesn’t have to be complicated. In this workshop, you’ll learn practical ways to attract customers and turn interest into sales. We’ll focus on strategies that work for local and community-based businesses, including referrals, visibility, and simple ways to show up consistently.

SST Week 3 Class
Carlos Velasco SST26 Speaker Card

Workshop Speaker:
Carlos L. Velasco
Founder & CEO
Novle Community Activators

Marketing que Atrae Clientes
Virtual por Zoom
Jueves 26 de marzo, 2:00–3:30 PM hora de AZ (En español)

El marketing no tiene que ser complicado. En este taller aprenderás formas prácticas de atraer clientes y convertir el interés en ventas. Nos enfocaremos en estrategias que funcionan para negocios locales y comunitarios, incluyendo referencias, visibilidad y maneras sencillas de mantener una presencia constante

Carlos Velasco SST26 Speaker Card

Facilitador del Taller:
Carlos L. Velasco
Fundador y CEO
Novle Community Activators

Using Technology to Work Smarter, Not Harder
Virtual on Zoom - Week of March 30

Technology should support your business, not overwhelm you. This session focuses on simple tools and practical ways to save time, stay organized, and make it easier for customers to work with you.

You’ll learn how to use basic AI tools to draft marketing posts and customer emails, create simple policies or proposals, and reduce repetitive tasks. We’ll also cover straightforward systems for scheduling, invoicing, and getting paid without adding complexity to your day.

SST Week 4 Class

Cash Flow & Staying Profitable in Uncertain Times
Virtual on Zoom - Week of April 6

Running a small business means balancing expenses, revenue, and real-life unpredictability. This session breaks down your numbers in a simple, practical way.

You’ll learn the difference between revenue, profit, and cash flow, how to understand your break-even point, and how to price your services or products so your business can stay sustainable.

SST26 Week 1 Class

Full Day Launch Camp

Friday, March 27, 2026, 9:00 am - 2:30 pm

Launch Camp is a one-day, high-energy experience designed to help you clarify your business and confidently share it with others.

Two concurrent tracks will be offered, one in English and one in Spanish.

Interactive workshops and mentoring include:

  • Defining the problem you solve

  • Identifying and understanding your ideal customer

  • Clarifying your solution and value

  • Strengthening your business model

  • Crafting a clear, compelling pitch

  • Making a strong ask, whether for mentorship, partnerships, or customers

You will practice your pitch, receive feedback, and connect directly with mentors and peers who want to see you succeed.

Space is limited. Preference will be given to new Startup Spring Training participants and those who attend one or more virtual workshops.

Lunch, snacks, and beverages will be provided.

Apply by March 13.

Selected participants will be notified on or before March 18.

5 Year Showcase Celebration

Friday, March 27, 2026, 5:30 - 7:00 PM

Join us for a special evening celebrating five seasons of Startup Spring Training and the entrepreneurs who have shaped this community.

The Showcase is a standalone celebration designed to honor past and present participants. While Launch Camp focuses on this year’s active cohort, the Showcase brings together alumni from all five seasons to recognize the progress, resilience, and impact of this growing community.

The evening will feature:

  • Live pitches from entrepreneurs representing all five seasons of SST

  • Alumni recognition and community shout-outs

  • Networking with Arizona-based entrepreneurs, business leaders, and ecosystem partners

  • A celebration of the milestones and momentum built over the past five years

Enjoy appetizers and drinks as we reconnect, share updates, and raise a glass to the businesses that have stepped up year after year.