Sips at Sunset 2025
2025-08-22 17:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL, 36117, United States
Sips at Sunset is an annual event hosted by Access Montgomery in partnership with the City of Montgomery and SBOSS. Designed to celebrate the achievements of our city’s local business owners, this elegant summer gathering brings together Montgomery’s doers, dreamers, and culture shapers for an unforgettable evening of networking, music, and joy.
More than a party — it’s a toast to progress, powered by community.

Small Business Awards
5:30 PM
Free & Open to the Public

Celebrate Montgomery’s brightest business minds at the city’s inaugural Small Business Awards, a live ceremony honoring the entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders shaping our local economy. Finalists in each category will be recognized, and winners announced live on stage.

?Live award presentations across 10+ categories
?Finalists announced in advance — winners revealed live
?Photo ops, applause, and local pride

Sips at Sunset Reception
7:30 PM
Ticketed Experience

Immediately following the awards, the celebration continues! Guests can mix and mingle in a stunning ballroom with access to the garden for fresh air, photo ops, and good vibes. Enjoy live music, curated cocktails, and delicious bites while supporting local small business programs. Tickets: $50 · Sponsorship packages available.

?Live music & dancing
?Curated bites & specialty cocktails
?Garden party atmosphere

Register Today

HBCU/Greek & Small Business Mixer
2025-08-27 17:30 - 19:00 | Vanguard Social House, 416 South Perry Street, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
Celebrate culture, community, and commerce at the 2025 HBCU/Greek & Small Business Mixer—where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Montgomery during the Department of the Air Force Information Technology and Cyberpower Conference (DAFITC).
This year, we’re joining forces with SBOSS Montgomery to spotlight and uplift small business entrepreneurs across the region. Whether you’re an HBCU alum, student, member of the Divine Nine, or a local business leader, this is your moment to mix, mingle, and make meaningful connections.
? Rep your HBCU or Greek letter organization
?️ Support small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs
? Expand your network with professionals across the globe
Come dressed in your favorite school colors or Greek letters and connect with trailblazers, creatives, and tech professionals shaping the future of Montgomery and beyond. From networking and resource-sharing to music and collaboration, this event brings together the energy of HBCU pride and the power of Black innovation and entrepreneurship.
Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of TECH and TRADITION!
Register Here

Disaster Preparedness for Small Business
2025-09-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Is your business prepared for the unexpected? Natural disasters, cyber threats, and unexpected crises can strike at any moment, disrupting operations and putting your livelihood at risk. This professional development workshop is designed to help small business owners identify vulnerabilities and create actionable strategies for resilience.
In this session, you will learn:

How to develop an emergency response and continuity plan tailored to your business.

Practical steps to safeguard essential records, equipment, and digital assets.

Financial and insurance considerations that can protect your bottom line.

How to communicate effectively with your team, customers, and community during a crisis.

Available resources and support systems for recovery and rebuilding.

This training will empower you with the tools and confidence to keep your business operating, no matter what challenges arise. Join us and take a proactive step toward securing your business’s future.

Register Here
https://catalystcenter.ecenterdirect.com/events/972606

Strong Coffee Strong Women – Evening Edition
2025-09-17 17:30 - 19:30 | Dream Makers Studio, 39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
We are pleased to welcome you to another LIVE Strong Coffee Strong Women: Evening Edition! This month’s program will be held in person at the SBOSS Montgomery Dream Makers Studio, located in the Kress Building at 39 Dexter Ave, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL 36104.
This month features Casie Scott, owner of Jo Wells Boutique! Known for building more than just a shop, Casie has created a community of joy, confidence, and connection. At Jo Wells, every woman is celebrated, empowered, and inspired. Casie brings her passion for helping women discover their best looks while cultivating a supportive and uplifting shopping experience.
Doors open at 5:30 PM for networking, with the program starting at 6:00 PM. Coffee and light refreshments will be served.
At Strong Coffee Strong Women, you’ll hear a shot of inspiration—what we call an “Espresso-monial.” Join us to:

Gain insights from Casie’s journey as a boutique owner and entrepreneur.

Connect with inventive, resourceful, and highly motivated small business leaders.

Build meaningful relationships in an informal, fireside-style networking environment.

If you’re looking for inspiration, connection, and community, this event is a must-attend.
Register Here: https://catalystcenter.ecenterdirect.com/events/972601

Small Business Mixer – Education Edition
2025-09-24 17:30 - 19:30 | Dream Makers Studio, 39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
The September Small Business Mixer shines a spotlight on education-driven entrepreneurship! Hosted at the Dream Makers Studio, this event brings together Montgomery’s vibrant business community for an evening of insight, connection, and collaboration.
Hear from two inspiring education entrepreneurs:

Anthony Brock, Co-Founder & Head of School, Valiant Cross Academy
LJ Walker, Founder & Principal, Better Than Average Tutoring
Anissha Officer,

Both leaders are shaping the future through innovative approaches to education and mentorship.
Join us for an evening filled with:

Dynamic speaker insights on the intersection of business and education.
Networking with fellow entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community leaders.
Opportunities to explore partnerships, mentorship, and business growth.

From startups to established ventures, this mixer is a launchpad for connection, collaboration, and new opportunities in Montgomery’s small business ecosystem.

Small Business Boos – Starting a Business Doesn’t Have to Be Scary!
2025-10-01 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Thinking about starting a business but feeling a little spooked by the process? ? Don’t worry—launching your small business doesn’t have to be scary! In this engaging online workshop, the Catalyst Team will guide you through the “business scaries” and help you turn fear into confidence.
In this session, you’ll learn:

The key steps to planning and launching a small business.
How to create a simple, effective business plan.
Practical tips to overcome common startup challenges.
Tools and resources available to support your entrepreneurial journey.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore your business idea or ready to take your first big step, this workshop will provide clarity, encouragement, and actionable strategies to help you move forward with confidence.

Crowdfunding 101 – Unlocking Capital for Your Business
2025-10-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
In today’s digital world, building a village of support for your business is more accessible than ever before. ? Crowdfunding offers entrepreneurs a powerful way to raise money, test ideas, and grow community support without relying on traditional financing.
Join us for this interactive online workshop where you’ll discover:

How crowdfunding works and which platforms best fit your business.
The essentials of crafting a compelling campaign story that inspires backers.
Practical tips for setting goals, managing rewards, and tracking success.
Marketing strategies to share your campaign and build momentum.
Real-world examples of small businesses who funded their dreams through crowdfunding.

Whether you’re launching a new product, growing your services, or looking to build stronger community buy-in, this workshop will equip you with tools and strategies to fund your vision.
Register Here: https://catalystcenter.ecenterdirect.com/events/972688

Small Business Mixer – Education Edition
2025-10-15 17:30 - 19:30 | Dream Makers Studio, 39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
Small Business Mixer: Finance & Accounting EditionOctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re bringing the community together for an evening of education, empowerment, and resources that matter. This special edition of our Small Business Mixer dives into one of the most-requested topics from entrepreneurs in our network: Business Finances.
In this interactive session, we’ll cover:

How to confidently price your business services
Essential strategies for managing small business finances
Navigating taxes and compliance with confidence
Understanding the Montgomery Small Business Access to Capital Program and how it can support your growth

How the program works and who qualifies
Forgiveness opportunities for eligible businesses
Additional financial services and resources Hope provides
Strategies to strengthen your financial readiness for funding

Our goal? To equip you with the knowledge and connections to not only survive but thrive in today’s business environment.
Featured Hosts & Speakers

Dr. Nichole Thompson – Project Director, SBOSS Montgomery
Kenneth Penn – Principal Consultant, The Pantera Group LLC & SBOSS Operations & CFO
Willie E. Watson – Regional Business Sales Manager, VP, Hope Credit Union

This is more than just a networking event — it’s your chance to ask questions, gain insights, and walk away with practical tools to strengthen your business.
Register Here

Creating with Canva – Design Made Simple
2025-10-16 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Are you a small business owner looking to elevate your brand’s visual presence? ✨ Join us for an exciting and hands-on workshop where you’ll discover how to harness the power of Canva to create stunning graphics and marketing materials that showcase your business at its best.
In this interactive session, you will learn:

The basics of Canva: navigating the interface and understanding its features.
How to design eye-catching social media posts, flyers, and business cards.
Tips for maintaining brand consistency with custom templates and brand kits.
Techniques for creating promotional materials that resonate with your audience.
Best practices for collaborating with your team and sharing designs effectively.

No design experience? No problem! This workshop will equip you with the confidence and tools to create professional-quality visuals that enhance your brand and attract more customers.
Register Here: https://catalystcenter.ecenterdirect.com/events/972689

Developing a Customer Loyalty Program
2025-11-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Join us for an engaging session led by our very own Austin Goble as he shares strategies for creating an effective customer loyalty program. Learn how to keep your customers coming back, strengthen relationships, and increase long-term sales through practical tools and real-world examples.
Register Now

Gear Up for 2026
2025-11-18 17:30 - 19:30 | AL
Ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship? Join SBOSS for Gear Up for 2026: Building a Strong Foundation — a hands-on workshop designed to help aspiring and first-year business owners lay the groundwork for long-term success.
In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to:

Create a clear and strategic business plan
Build an actionable growth strategy
Understand and manage your business finances
Use practical tools to track cash flow and financial goals

This session goes beyond theory — all templates, guides, and planning documents are included to help you put what you learn into action immediately.
? Tuesday, November 18, 2025? 5:30 – 7:30 PM (CST)? Dream Maker Studio | 39 Dexter Ave, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL 36104? $35 Registration Fee? Dinner Provided | Limited Seating
Come ready to plan your next chapter — and leave with the tools, confidence, and roadmap to grow your business in 2026.
Register Now

Banking Fundamentals Workshop
2025-11-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
If you’re interested in learning more about the banking needs for your business, or exploring how to prepare yourself to apply for business bank loans, this is the workshop for you! Join Heather Jones with Synovus as she explores these banking topics and more.
Register Now

Small Business Mixer - Health & Wellness Edition
2025-11-19 17:30 - 19:30 | 39 Dexter Avenue, 1st Floor, 39 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
It’s the final Small Business Mixer of the season, and we’re closing out the year with a focus on Health & Wellness! Join us for an evening dedicated to connection, balance, and building a stronger business community. This mixer isn’t just for health or wellness professionals — it’s for every entrepreneur who believes that healthy leaders build healthy businesses. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or haven’t joined us in a while, this is the perfect opportunity to reconnect, refresh, and realign before the new year.
Come ready to:

Network with small business owners across industries
Learn insights on health, mindset, and sustainability in business
Celebrate another season of collaboration and community through SBOSS

? Featured Speakers
Dr. Ashley L. Cochran, DSW, LICSW-C
Dr. Cochran is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work at Alabama State University with extensive experience in child welfare. She provides supervision, family support, therapy, and life skills to therapeutic foster youth, foster families, and birth families. Certified for Private Independent Practice in Social Casework and as a Parent-Child Interaction Therapist, she is also the owner of Unlimited Potential Therapeutic Services, LLC in Montgomery, AL, where she empowers families to heal, grow, and thrive.
Gail Adkison
A native New Yorker by way of Long Beach, California, Gail Adkison now calls Montgomery home. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting from AIU and a Master of Accountancy from Alabama State University.
Beyond her career in finance, Gail’s passion for wellness shines as the co-owner of 2A Fitness Gym—“Montgomery’s Best Kept Secret.” She’s a Professional Figure/Bodybuilding Competitor, Certified Personal Trainer, and Co-Founder of the Rayflex Community Health & Wellness Foundation, an organization dedicated to making fitness accessible to all. Her mission: to help build stronger bodies, stronger businesses, and a stronger community.
Featured Panel Discussion

Balancing entrepreneurship with personal wellness and mental health
Building a healthy workplace culture that supports employees and leaders
The link between financial health and overall well-being for business owners
Managing stress, burnout, and emotional fatigue in small business leadership
Integrating wellness into business models — beyond products and services

? Wednesday, November 19, 2025
? 5:30 – 7:30 PM
? Dream Maker Studio | 39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL 36104
Let’s wrap up the year strong — in good health, good company, and great conversation.
Register Here

Small Business Insurance Made Easy
2025-11-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Hosted by Catalyst coach and Calhoun Insurance’s fearless leader, Erica Calhoun, this class is perfect for both new business owners who need insurance and experienced business owners who want to make sure they have the right coverage.
Getting the protection you need for your small business doesn’t have to be scary or complicated––even though it might feel like both! If you own a business, you probably need some type of insurance. Join Erica Calhoun as she shows you how the right business insurance will reduce anxiety and protect you where it matters. Plus, she’ll give insider tips on getting the right coverage at the right price.
Register Now

Goal Setting for 2026
2025-12-03 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Get ready to supercharge your 2026 with our 2026 Goal Setting Extravaganza for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners! This lively and interactive workshop is all about setting exciting, achievable goals for the new year. We’ll guide you through fun exercises to define your vision, create SMART goals, and map out a dynamic plan to make 2026 your best year yet.
Join us to discover creative techniques for prioritizing your tasks, overcoming obstacles with a smile, and staying motivated on your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you’re launching a new venture or aiming to elevate your existing business, this workshop will equip you with the tools and inspiration to make your 2026 goals a reality. Let’s turn your aspirations into action and have a blast doing it!
Register Now

Gear Up for 2026 — For Business Owners with 2+ Years
2025-12-06 11:00 - 13:00 | Dream Makers Studio, 39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
Sharpen your strategy, strengthen your growth plan, and align your business finances for sustainable success. Gear Up for 2026 is designed for established business owners who are ready to push their business to the next level with clearer goals, stronger systems, and smarter financial decision-making.
? Event Description
This hands-on workshop will help you:

Refine your strategic planning for the upcoming year
Strengthen your growth strategy with actionable insights
Understand and align your business finances for long-term sustainability
Set SMART revenue goals that support your business model
Build the tools needed to manage cash flow effectively

Whether you’re preparing for expansion, stabilizing after growth, or planning major 2026 milestones, this session equips you with the systems and structure to move forward with confidence.
? Location
Dream Maker Studio
39 Dexter Ave, Suite 209
Montgomery, AL 36104
? Saturday, December 6th
? 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
? Fee: $35 — Includes brunch
Register Now

Grow with Google: Cybersecurity for Small Business
2025-12-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Cybersecurity is an important issue for businesses of all sizes. In this workshop, we’ll introduce the basics of online security and how it applies to your business and customers. You’ll learn ways you can identify common digital threats and steps you can take to protect your business. You’ll walk away with practical tips and tools to increase your business’ cybersecurity, as well as learn about the Google Cybersecurity Career Certificate to help your employees build skills in this space.
In this session, we’ll talk about:

Why cybersecurity matters for businesses of all sizes
How to protect your business and your customers online
What steps you can take after a potential security breach

Register Now

ENGAGE IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP
2026-01-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Begin building your community of support and discover the importance of communicating your business effectively. Whether you are just starting or already established, this workshop provides the assistance and resources needed to be successful at any stage of the business life cycle.
Participants will:

Gain insight into how Catalyst supports business goals
Learn the basic components of starting or growing a business
Identify areas of focus
Improve communication of their business
Build a roadmap to success

Business Plan 101: Start Your Business Plan
2026-01-14 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Learn how to develop your business plan with Reach WBC Director Austin Goble as he guides participants through key components, tips, and strategies to create a clear roadmap for the future.

Social Media: Tips & Tricks
2026-01-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Learn tips and tricks for creating and executing social media content, understanding algorithms, hashtags, and best practices for online engagement.

January Small Business Mixer: SET IT OFF
2026-01-21 17:30 - 19:30 | Dream Makers Studio, 39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
Kick off the year with SBOSS at our January Small Business Mixer: Set It Off. This event is designed for entrepreneurs who are ready to connect, learn, and engage with Montgomery’s small business ecosystem. Whether you are just starting out or looking to grow, this mixer provides a welcoming space to meet fellow business owners, connect with SBOSS leadership, and learn about resources available to support your business journey throughout 2026

Next Level Think Tank III
2026-01-22 17:30 - 20:00 | Dream Makers Studio, 39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
The Next Level Think Tank is a “Shark Tank”-inspired, strategy-focused session designed for entrepreneurs preparing to grow or scale their businesses. This facilitated discussion provides participants with an opportunity to gain insight, share challenges, and receive feedback in a supportive and confidential environment.

Understanding and Managing Cash Flow
2026-02-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Understanding & Managing Cash Flow is a foundational workshop designed to help entrepreneurs track, analyze, and forecast cash flow to support long-term business stability and growth.
Register Here

SBOSS Small Business Mixer: Beauty & Barbers Edition
2026-02-18 17:30 - 19:30 | Dream Makers Studio, 39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 209, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
The SBOSS Small Business Mixer is an intentional networking experience designed for business owners who value meaningful connections, shared insight, and long-term growth.
This edition highlights beauty and barbering professionals — owners who understand what it takes to build clientele, manage operations, protect their brand, and sustain a business over time. While the focus is on the beauty and personal service industries, the room itself is intentionally diverse, bringing together business owners across backgrounds, industries, and experience levels.
This is not a panel and not a pitch event. It is a space for real conversation — where owners can exchange perspectives, learn from one another’s experience, and build relationships that extend beyond the evening.
Whether you are continuing to grow an established business or positioning yourself for the next stage of expansion, the SBOSS Small Business Mixer creates the environment to connect with people who take business seriously and value being in the right room.
REGISTER HERE

Pricing For A Product-Based Business
2026-02-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Pricing for a Product-Based Business helps entrepreneurs confidently price products for profitability while remaining competitive.
Register Here

Southside Church of Christ Entrepreneurship Summit
2026-02-21 10:00 - 14:00 | Southside Church of Christ – Montgomery, 3388 South Hull Street, Montgomery, AL, 36105, United States
From Vision to Venture Entrepreneurship Summit
Building What God Has Placed in You
Saturday, February 21 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Southside Church of Christ | Montgomery, Alabama
The From Vision to Venture Entrepreneurship Summit is a one-day, hands-on experience for aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs who are ready to stop holding ideas and start building them.
Why This Summit Matters
If you’ve been carrying an idea, questioning your next move, or waiting for the “right time,” this summit is designed for you.
In just four hours, you’ll gain:

Clear direction for the idea you’ve been sitting on
Practical insight into the real stages of building a business
Straightforward guidance on preparing before seeking funding
Access to local resources created to support entrepreneurs
A chance to apply what you learn — not just hear about it

What You’ll Experience

Faith-centered guidance on entrepreneurship as stewardship
A practical breakdown of business growth stages
A candid conversation with resource leaders and a financial expert on being bankable and loan-ready
A hands-on working lab to move your idea forward
An informal lunch conversation with an entrepreneur

Lunch will be provided.
Who Should Be in the Room

Aspiring entrepreneurs
Early-stage business owners
Anyone ready to move from idea to execution

Cost & Registration
This summit is free, but advance registration is required.
Space is limited, and once registration closes, it closes.
Register Now

Business, Beards, and Bourbon
2026-02-28 13:00 - 16:30 | 23 Cigar Bar, 23 Court Street, Montgomery, AL, 36104, United States
Business, Beards, & Bourbon is a curated networking and conversation experience designed for men who are building, leading, and thinking long-term.
This event creates space for honest dialogue around entrepreneurship, leadership, finances, and legacy — without the fluff. Over good conversation and a shared pour, participants will engage with peers who understand the realities of business ownership and the responsibility that comes with it.
More than a mixer, Business, Beards, & Bourbon is about connection, accountability, and growth. It’s for entrepreneurs who value strategy, community, and meaningful conversation — and who understand that building a business also means building yourself.
Whether you’re just getting started or already established, this experience is designed to meet you where you are and challenge you to think differently about what’s next.
Register Here

TARGET MARKET & CRAFTING YOUR MESSAGE
2026-03-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
If your marketing feels inconsistent, it’s usually not because you lack effort—it’s because your message isn’t clear enough to cut through. Target Market & Crafting Your Message is a practical workshop designed to help you define exactly who your business serves and how to communicate your value without overexplaining or sounding like everyone else. You’ll learn how to identify the audience most likely to buy, shape a message that actually resonates, and tighten the language you use across your social media, website, and sales conversations. This session is built for entrepreneurs at any stage who want less guesswork and more strategy. Leave with clarity you can use immediately—not “ideas,” but language and direction.
Secure Your Seat Now

LAUNCH YOUR BUSINESS LEGALLY
2026-03-05 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
A business that isn’t structured correctly will eventually feel the pressure—through taxes, liability, financing, or growth limitations. Launch Your Business Legally is a clear, entrepreneur-friendly workshop designed to help you understand the major legal structures (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, partnership) and how to choose what fits your goals.
You’ll learn what changes when you form an entity, what protections it can provide, and what lenders and partners often expect to see as you grow. This session is ideal for new founders, side-hustlers becoming official, and existing business owners who formed quickly and want to revisit the foundation. Come for clarity, leave with confidence and a smarter next step.
Secure Your Seat Now

CAPTURING LEADS & SALES CONVERSION
2026-03-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
A lot of entrepreneurs have demand—but no system. They get DMs, inquiries, comments, and “I’m interested” messages… and then the sale disappears because there’s no clear path to follow up and close. Capturing Leads & Sales Conversion is a practical workshop designed to help you build a simple lead capture process and turn curiosity into customers.
You’ll learn what to collect, where to collect it, and how to follow up without feeling pushy or unprofessional. This session is especially valuable for service providers and product sellers who are getting attention but want more consistent revenue. Leave with a structure you can repeat—not a hustle you have to restart every week.
Secure Your Seat Now
