The Entrepreneur Hour @ The Virtual Office Group - First Tuesday Monthly

??Metro Atlanta entrepreneurs and professionals: How much is 90 minutes of focused networking worth to your business? If you could leave a meeting with 3 brand-new, meaningful connections, would you take the time? Join us for the kickoff of The Entrepreneur Hub Po......More

??Metro Atlanta entrepreneurs and professionals: How much is 90 minutes of focused networking worth to your business? If you could leave a meeting with 3 brand-new, meaningful connections, would you take the time? Join us for the kickoff of The Entrepreneur Hub Power Hour at The Virtual Office Group. This monthly meetup is designed specifically for small business owners, freelancers, remote workers, and aspiring entrepreneurs in the DeKalb & Gwinnett County area who value efficient, effective connecting. Event Details: ?? Kickoff: Tuesday, March 3rd (First Tuesday of every month thereafter) ? Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM ?? Location: 925 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA 30083 Stop collecting business cards and start making real connections. RSVP Today! 

Location: 925 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Workshop - Writing a Business Plan

A business plan is more than just a document – it’s your roadmap to success. A strong business plan helps keep you focused, reach your goals and is critical if you plan to seek financing for your business. Many business owners don’t have a business plan because they ......More

A business plan is more than just a document – it’s your roadmap to success. A strong business plan helps keep you focused, reach your goals and is critical if you plan to seek financing for your business. Many business owners don’t have a business plan because they just don’t know where to start. This class breaks down each section of the business plan, from the executive summary to financial projections, with tools and resources to guide you along the way.  Whether you’re just starting a business, need funding, or just finally have time to focus, this class will help you create an effective business plan to guide your business for years to come. LEARN HOW TO: Use the business plan tool or template that works for you Understand and explain who your target customer is Start with your company description and proceed step-by-step to finish your business plan Strategically position your business using a written plan Incorporate a strong financial foundation into your business plan

Virtual

Workshop - Marketing After Hours: Holiday Content that Converts

Holiday marketing moves fast—are you ready? In this session, you’ll learn how to create and collect content that captures attention and drives results during high-impact seasonal moments. We’ll cover what makes content visually appealing, how to plan and create enga......More

Holiday marketing moves fast—are you ready? In this session, you’ll learn how to create and collect content that captures attention and drives results during high-impact seasonal moments. We’ll cover what makes content visually appealing, how to plan and create engaging holiday-themed marketing, and the tools that make content creation easier and more consistent. You’ll also learn how to set clear goals for your campaigns, track performance metrics, and measure what’s actually working—from engagement to conversions. Whether you're preparing for major holidays, local events, or seasonal promotions, this class will help you market with intention and make the most of your busiest times of year. LEARN HOW TO: Identify what makes visually appealing, high-performing holiday content Plan, create, and organize seasonal marketing content using simple tools and workflows Set clear goals for holiday promotions and ad campaigns

Virtual

DeKalb Chamber Executive Committee Meeting

This meeting is a CLOSED MEETING. The DeKalb Chamber Executive Committee meets to discuss the important issues impacting the Chamber and the business community as well as approve upcoming business.

Virtual

Workshop - Pizza is a Perk--Not a Strategy

This webinar provides supervisors, managers, and owners with the systems and tools to hire and retain engaged employees by increasing employee engagement with the team and company. Quit using "free pizza" as the way to entice good behavior and employee satisfaction. R......More

This webinar provides supervisors, managers, and owners with the systems and tools to hire and retain engaged employees by increasing employee engagement with the team and company. Quit using "free pizza" as the way to entice good behavior and employee satisfaction. Retention and performance are built through culture and management, not giveaways. LEARN HOW TO: Focus the hiring efforts to find the right people. Onboard new hires for early success and inclusion. Create predictability and consistency for a stable workplace. Increase operational results through employee retention.

Virtual

Workshop - Commercial Real Estate Leasing

Navigate Lease Agreements and Avoid Property Pitfalls Whether your business is industrial, service, or retail, you will thrive in the right location. Start the process with a well structured commercial real estate lease. A good commercial real estate lease works f......More

Navigate Lease Agreements and Avoid Property Pitfalls Whether your business is industrial, service, or retail, you will thrive in the right location. Start the process with a well structured commercial real estate lease. A good commercial real estate lease works for both parties. For the business owner, it prevents any unfavorable terms that could hurt the company’s bottom line. And, for the property owner, it prevents any misunderstandings or conflicts that might affect the property or the ability to collect rent. Discover the best ways to search for a location and address issues such as liability, rent, exclusivity, and remedies. What you will learn: The vocabulary of commercial leases What questions you should ask before you sign a lease What issues landlords see as important How to find professionals to represent you Take-Aways Glossary of Commercial Real Estate Lease Terms Checklist of questions to be answered before signing a lease

Virtual

Workshop - Finding the Financing Fit for Your Small Business

Discover the right financing path for your small business in our 40-minute webinar, Finding the Financing Fit for Your Small Business. Delve into the array of funding options available, from traditional funding to alternative options. This session guides you through ......More

Discover the right financing path for your small business in our 40-minute webinar, Finding the Financing Fit for Your Small Business. Delve into the array of funding options available, from traditional funding to alternative options. This session guides you through these choices, providing actionable insights and expert advice to help you make informed decisions. Gain clarity on navigating the complexities of financing, empowering you to drive your business toward financial success in the upcoming year. This session will help you identify potential pitfalls and learn proactive measures to overcome obstacles, ensuring a smoother financing process for your small business. LEARN HOW TO: Distinguish between traditional and emerging funding models, enabling better decision-making for your business's financial health.  Analyze and align specific financing solutions with your business's unique requirements.   Assess the feasibility of different options and select the most suitable financing fit to fuel your business growth.  Navigate the complexities and challenges associated with securing funding 

Virtual

Workshop - How to Start a Business in Georgia

Starting a business can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what you don’t know. Whether you’re just starting to brainstorm your idea or ready to turn your passion into a profitable venture, this class will give you a roadmap to success. You’ll learn what......More

Starting a business can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what you don’t know. Whether you’re just starting to brainstorm your idea or ready to turn your passion into a profitable venture, this class will give you a roadmap to success. You’ll learn what you need to start a business in Georgia, from assessing the feasibility of your idea to marketing, finding financing, building a team, and operating legally. You’ll leave with actionable steps, essential tools, and resources to start your business on a strong foundation. Small businesses are the backbone of America; this class will help you start yours. LEARN HOW TO: Determine the feasibility of your business idea using market research and competitive analysis Estimate start-up expenses for your business and identify requirements for pursuing start-up financing options Differentiate between different legal structure options for business formation Identify who you should include on your team when making plans and executing business formation Navigate the steps to start your business in the State of Georgia

Virtual

Floral String Art Experience

??? The Creative Experience You Didn?t Know You Needed This is your sign to get out the house and do something different. Join us for an experience filled with creative vibes, good energy, and a moment just for you at our Floral String Art Vase Experience. During this......More

??? The Creative Experience You Didn?t Know You Needed This is your sign to get out the house and do something different. Join us for an experience filled with creative vibes, good energy, and a moment just for you at our Floral String Art Vase Experience. During this experience, you?ll design a one-of-a-kind string art floral vase on a wood plaque using nails and thread. Then, bring your piece to life by adding flowers for a stunning finished look that adds warmth and personality to any space. You can bring your own appetizer/food we will provide the drink. ? All supplies are included ? No experience needed ? beginner-friendly ? A safe, welcoming space to unwind and connect  ?You can bring your own appetizer/food we will provide the drink. What?s Included: All materials and tools Guided instruction from start to finish Wood plaque Flowers A creative, stress-free environment with good music and great energy ??? Booking Notes: You can bring your own appetizer/food we will provide the drink. Whether you come with friends or show up for yourself, this experience is all about creating something beautiful, building connection, and walking away feeling refreshed and empowered. Come get crafty with us ???

L&L Crafty Finds 4421 Glenwood Rd, Suite 600 Decatur, GA 30032

Workshop - Marketing Monday: Social Media for Small Business

The world of social media is changing at a very rapid pace these days, and it's hard to keep up. In this Marketing Monday webinar, Mickey Mellen of GreenMellen discusses the pros and cons of some of the major networks, talks about best practices for each, and peek a ......More

The world of social media is changing at a very rapid pace these days, and it's hard to keep up. In this Marketing Monday webinar, Mickey Mellen of GreenMellen discusses the pros and cons of some of the major networks, talks about best practices for each, and peek a little bit into what's coming up in the future. Learn to choose the right platforms for your business, leverage tools to save time, and align social media with your marketing strategy. LEARN HOW TO: Determine the best social platforms for your company Find tools and best practices for making the most of your time Understand how social media should fit into your overall marketing plan Identify trends in social media

Virtual

Workshop - StartSmart (8-class series)

SBDC StartSmart provides the resources, support, and motivation to put your dream within reach. StartSmart is tailored to be held virtually to facilitate virtual discussion, class engagement, & mastery of content. Participation in StartSmart will also allow access to......More

SBDC StartSmart provides the resources, support, and motivation to put your dream within reach. StartSmart is tailored to be held virtually to facilitate virtual discussion, class engagement, & mastery of content. Participation in StartSmart will also allow access to LivePlan, an online business planning software. The program is facilitated by specially trained SBDC consultants and a long-term relationship with the SBDC and follow-up consulting is available and encouraged following the program.  Whether you are a new business (in business 2 years or less), or are still in the planning phase, building a business takes the right tools—and a lot of hard work. SBDC StartSmart will equip you to be successful! SBDC StartSmart helps attendees to: Evaluate & refine your business concept Improve your knowledge of business concepts Research markets and competition Develop a financial forecast to improve chances of success Develop a thorough, practical business plan SBDC StartSmart includes 16 hours of instruction delivered over a period of 4 weeks. Sessions will be held twice a week for 2 hours.  LEARN HOW TO: Evaluate your concept and develop plans to move forward. Improve knowledge of business fundamentals. Build an infrastructure for business operations and processes. SBDC StartSmart graduates acquire: An actionable business plan and access to business planning software Access to financial and business resources. A network of entrepreneurial peers and professionals Eight modules cover critical issues for new businesses: MODULE 1: Business Success – How do we get there? MODULE 2: Opportunity & Solutions MODULE 3: Marketing for Success MODULE 4: Digital Marketing & Online Strategies MODULE 5: Navigating Human Resources MODULE 6: Operations & Managing by the Numbers MODULE 7: Management with a Plan MODULE 8: Plan, Run, Review, Revise

Virtual

Governmental Affairs Committee Meeting

The DeKalb Chamber Governmental Affairs Committee speaks on behalf of the business interests of DeKalb County industry ensuring that DeKalb County remains a place that is competitive locally and statewide. This committee meets monthly on the 2nd Tuesday of each month......More

The DeKalb Chamber Governmental Affairs Committee speaks on behalf of the business interests of DeKalb County industry ensuring that DeKalb County remains a place that is competitive locally and statewide. This committee meets monthly on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Some meetings may have been adjusted from their original schedule due to holidays or Chamber events.

VIRTUAL - Zoom link will be sent upon registration.

Finance Committee Meeting

This meeting is a CLOSED MEETING. The DeKalb Chamber Finance Committee meets to provide monthly oversight of financial transactions to help ensure transparency and accountability in safeguarding all funds and resources of the Chamber. 

Virtual

Workshop - Best Franchises to Buy and Why

Starting a business in uncertain economic times is risky, right? In reality, it’s financially advantageous. History tells us that the biggest opportunities await in hard times.   As you evaluate your entrepreneurial options, there are many compelling reasons to consi......More

Starting a business in uncertain economic times is risky, right? In reality, it’s financially advantageous. History tells us that the biggest opportunities await in hard times.   As you evaluate your entrepreneurial options, there are many compelling reasons to consider buying a franchise. Franchised businesses are historically proven to enjoy greater success, less risk, and significant competitive advantages compared to independent startups.   In this Live Online Workshop successful franchise experts from multiple industries will share their experiences about choosing, starting and growing franchised businesses in all economic seasons.  To be covered: Five (5) Franchised industries to investigate now (and why) What is required to succeed Costs & funding opportunities Timing & exit strategies Resources to help you 

Virtual

Workshop - StartSmart (8-class series)

SBDC StartSmart provides the resources, support, and motivation to put your dream within reach. StartSmart is tailored to be held virtually to facilitate virtual discussion, class engagement, & mastery of content. Participation in StartSmart will also allow access to......More

SBDC StartSmart provides the resources, support, and motivation to put your dream within reach. StartSmart is tailored to be held virtually to facilitate virtual discussion, class engagement, & mastery of content. Participation in StartSmart will also allow access to LivePlan, an online business planning software. The program is facilitated by specially trained SBDC consultants and a long-term relationship with the SBDC and follow-up consulting is available and encouraged following the program.  Whether you are a new business (in business 2 years or less), or are still in the planning phase, building a business takes the right tools—and a lot of hard work. SBDC StartSmart will equip you to be successful! SBDC StartSmart helps attendees to: Evaluate & refine your business concept Improve your knowledge of business concepts Research markets and competition Develop a financial forecast to improve chances of success Develop a thorough, practical business plan SBDC StartSmart includes 16 hours of instruction delivered over a period of 4 weeks. Sessions will be held twice a week for 2 hours.  LEARN HOW TO: Evaluate your concept and develop plans to move forward. Improve knowledge of business fundamentals. Build an infrastructure for business operations and processes. SBDC StartSmart graduates acquire: An actionable business plan and access to business planning software Access to financial and business resources. A network of entrepreneurial peers and professionals Eight modules cover critical issues for new businesses: MODULE 1: Business Success – How do we get there? MODULE 2: Opportunity & Solutions MODULE 3: Marketing for Success MODULE 4: Digital Marketing & Online Strategies MODULE 5: Navigating Human Resources MODULE 6: Operations & Managing by the Numbers MODULE 7: Management with a Plan MODULE 8: Plan, Run, Review, Revise

Virtual

Workshop - Grants 101: How to Find, Apply, and Win Grants

This workshop is designed to help businesses and nonprofits navigate the grant landscape. Learn where to find funding opportunities Craft compelling applications Implement strategies to increase chances of success Key areas to be covered: Ensuring your......More

This workshop is designed to help businesses and nonprofits navigate the grant landscape. Learn where to find funding opportunities Craft compelling applications Implement strategies to increase chances of success Key areas to be covered: Ensuring your mission statement and funder priorities align Developing measurable goals Preparing for application submission Networking Tracking and reporting performance Structuring for sustainability For clarity's sake: Please be aware the great majority of grants are awarded to nonprofits. Registrants who have for profit businesses will learn how the same steps are generally applicable to be best prepared to approach financial institutions.

Virtual

Workshop - Mastering Global Distribution: Selecting, Managing and Retaining International Trade Partners

This 2-hour webinar is intended for businesses that are currently exporting tangible goods and seeking to grow their revenues/market penetration  overseas. This webinar will be presented by two former export sales managers with exposure to a multitude of products co......More

This 2-hour webinar is intended for businesses that are currently exporting tangible goods and seeking to grow their revenues/market penetration  overseas. This webinar will be presented by two former export sales managers with exposure to a multitude of products covering four continents.     LEARN HOW TO: Research, select, develop, manage, retain and how to terminate international distributors Obtain checklist and tips covering their various business functions Increase your revenues and promotion overseas

Virtual

Workshop - How to Start a Business in Georgia

Starting a business can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what you don’t know. Whether you’re just starting to brainstorm your idea or ready to turn your passion into a profitable venture, this class will give you a roadmap to success. You’ll learn what......More

Starting a business can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what you don’t know. Whether you’re just starting to brainstorm your idea or ready to turn your passion into a profitable venture, this class will give you a roadmap to success. You’ll learn what you need to start a business in Georgia, from assessing the feasibility of your idea to marketing, finding financing, building a team, and operating legally. You’ll leave with actionable steps, essential tools, and resources to start your business on a strong foundation. Small businesses are the backbone of America; this class will help you start yours. LEARN HOW TO: Determine the feasibility of your business idea using market research and competitive analysis Estimate start-up expenses for your business and identify requirements for pursuing start-up financing options Differentiate between different legal structure options for business formation Identify who you should include on your team when making plans and executing business formation Navigate the steps to start your business in the State of Georgia

Virtual

Workshop - StartSmart (8-class series)

SBDC StartSmart provides the resources, support, and motivation to put your dream within reach. StartSmart is tailored to be held virtually to facilitate virtual discussion, class engagement, & mastery of content. Participation in StartSmart will also allow access to......More

SBDC StartSmart provides the resources, support, and motivation to put your dream within reach. StartSmart is tailored to be held virtually to facilitate virtual discussion, class engagement, & mastery of content. Participation in StartSmart will also allow access to LivePlan, an online business planning software. The program is facilitated by specially trained SBDC consultants and a long-term relationship with the SBDC and follow-up consulting is available and encouraged following the program.  Whether you are a new business (in business 2 years or less), or are still in the planning phase, building a business takes the right tools—and a lot of hard work. SBDC StartSmart will equip you to be successful! SBDC StartSmart helps attendees to: Evaluate & refine your business concept Improve your knowledge of business concepts Research markets and competition Develop a financial forecast to improve chances of success Develop a thorough, practical business plan SBDC StartSmart includes 16 hours of instruction delivered over a period of 4 weeks. Sessions will be held twice a week for 2 hours.  LEARN HOW TO: Evaluate your concept and develop plans to move forward. Improve knowledge of business fundamentals. Build an infrastructure for business operations and processes. SBDC StartSmart graduates acquire: An actionable business plan and access to business planning software Access to financial and business resources. A network of entrepreneurial peers and professionals Eight modules cover critical issues for new businesses: MODULE 1: Business Success – How do we get there? MODULE 2: Opportunity & Solutions MODULE 3: Marketing for Success MODULE 4: Digital Marketing & Online Strategies MODULE 5: Navigating Human Resources MODULE 6: Operations & Managing by the Numbers MODULE 7: Management with a Plan MODULE 8: Plan, Run, Review, Revise

Virtual

Workshop - AI in Restaurant Operations: Driving Profit, Efficiency and Scale

Are you ready to run your restaurant at high efficiency, lower operational cost and have more time on your hands? In this 90 minute webinar, learn how Al is being used across the restaurant industry today-not in theory, but through real, accessible tools and platform......More

Are you ready to run your restaurant at high efficiency, lower operational cost and have more time on your hands? In this 90 minute webinar, learn how Al is being used across the restaurant industry today-not in theory, but through real, accessible tools and platforms that can be implemented immediately. This workshop breaks down complex technology into practical applications across labor management, food cost control, guest experience, and revenue optimization. You'll see real-world AI examples and case studies. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how to build an Al-powered restaurant operating system-without needing technical expertise. LEARN HOW TO: Understand AI in practical terms Evaluate available AI Tools: top AI applications that directly improve margins Improve operational core metrics: Labor, Cogs, Customer Service, etc. Build an AI Tech Stack: POS > Data > AI > Execution Implement AI Step-by-Step Measure ROI and perfomance

Virtual

Small Business Committee Meeting

The DeKalb Chamber Small Business Committee assists the Chamber with recruiting, educating, and mentoring small businesses. Create and identify opportunities for growth and facilitate partnerships to improve small business programs. Help identify opportunities in the pu......More

The DeKalb Chamber Small Business Committee assists the Chamber with recruiting, educating, and mentoring small businesses. Create and identify opportunities for growth and facilitate partnerships to improve small business programs. Help identify opportunities in the public and private sector.  This committee meets monthly on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Some meetings may have been adjusted from their original schedule due to holidays or Chamber events.

VIRTUAL - Zoom link will be sent upon registration.

Workshop - Measuring the Effectiveness of Your Website & Your Social Media

Measure the Effectiveness of Your Website and Your Social Media Today’s consumers heavily rely on the internet to make their purchase decisions. This makes it critically important to ensure that your business is noticed online. You cannot afford to leave your dig......More

Measure the Effectiveness of Your Website and Your Social Media Today’s consumers heavily rely on the internet to make their purchase decisions. This makes it critically important to ensure that your business is noticed online. You cannot afford to leave your digital marketing to chance. You need to conduct a comprehensive audit to determine which of your marketing efforts work and which need to be overhauled or even scrapped. In this Live Online Workshop, you will be guided through the use of audit tools that evaluate SEO, social media, website content, and promotional efforts. In addition, you will learn how to: Track your metrics Look for gaps in your sales funnel Assess your workflows and processes Perform a conversion assessment And more You'll leave equipped with the resources and tools to strategize, execute, and adapt your audit to ensure you are hitting your goals.

Virtual

Workshop - Money Matters: Financial Management for Small Business Owners

Evaluating a company’s financial health is an essential skill for all business owners. Learn the fundamentals of financial management with instruction on financial statements, financial analysis and cash flow management. Find out what the numbers really mean and star......More

Evaluating a company’s financial health is an essential skill for all business owners. Learn the fundamentals of financial management with instruction on financial statements, financial analysis and cash flow management. Find out what the numbers really mean and start developing practical strategies for improving your company’s performance. Discussion includes using a financial scorecard and dashboard that quickly and easily inform company personnel on financial performance. Course Outline Agenda Components of financial statements How to read financial statements Financial Statement Analysis What the numbers really mean Cash flow management Financial Management Tools Financial scorecard and how to use it. Dashboard template Learner Outcomes Attendees will gain an understanding of: financial statements financial analysis cash flow tools to use for financial management how to make to make informed decisions how to make timely corrective actions.

Virtual