Store Owner Series

This series of FREE workshops provides valuable training for small businesses located in Philadelphia on topics that are practical and relevant for a business owner at any stage. We also provide opportunities for businesses to network with other small businesses in their local community.

We offer workshops at Community College of Philadelphia's Regional Center locations in Northeast and West Philadelphia, as well as at our Main Campus. We also partner with local community organizations to bring select topics into the neighborhoods for added convenience. You have the option of choosing the location and training that are most convenient for you.

WORKSHOPS

From Idea to Success: Why Some Businesses Win and Others Fail

February 11, 2025 | Online Workshop
2 p.m.

What separates thriving businesses from those that falter? In this 90-minute virtual workshop, we’ll explore a practical framework that breaks down the key factors contributing to business success or failure. From evaluating the product-market fit of your idea to understanding the resources and skills needed to succeed, this session will provide actionable insights for small business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to improve their odds of success. You’ll learn how to identify accelerators that propel your business forward and recognize the brakes that may be holding you back, equipping you with the tools to build a strong foundation for your venture.

Register in advance for this meeting

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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Drafting an Operating Agreement for Small Business

February 18, 2025 | Online Workshop
3 p.m.

Whether you’re a solopreneur or a small business owner, an operating agreement is essential for outlining how your LLC will be managed and protecting your personal assets. In this session, attorney Zane Johnson will break down the key components of an operating agreement, from profit distribution to decision-making rules, and help you understand how to tailor it to fit your business needs. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to create a document that sets the foundation.

Register in advance for this meeting

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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Small Business BIRT and CAL Information Session

February 25, 2025 | Online Workshop
10 a.m. or 3 p.m.

Learn how to set up your BIRT account and CAL to ensure compliance and business success. (These Sessions are live on Zoom)

Information sessions, where business can gain essential insights into business registration and compliance. These Sessions will cover how to create a Business Income & Receipts Tax (BIRT) account, obtain a Commercial Activity License (CAL), and gain and understanding to the Department of Commerce Mayor’s Business Action Team (MBAT) services. Whether you're launching a new venture or looking to ensure compliance, this workshop will help you to navigate Philadelphia’s business requirements with confidence. The presenter at the upcoming session is Shanshan Ma, a Business Navigator on the MBAT team.

Register for the 10 a.m. session

Register for the 3 p.m. session

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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Using AI for Contract Drafting for Small Business

March 11, 2025 | Online Workshop
3 p.m.

Learn how AI tools can help you create customized contracts quickly and efficiently—saving you time and money. Attorney Zane Johnson will cover the basics of AI-driven contract drafting, provide guidance on reviewing and refining your agreements to ensure they meet your unique needs, and help you learn to identify when it's time to call a lawyer. By the end, you’ll be equipped to harness cutting-edge technology to protect your business and simplify your legal workflows.

Register in advance for this meeting

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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The Price Is Right: Mastering Your Pricing Strategy

March 13, 2025 | Online Workshop
2 p.m.

Setting the right price for your product or service is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as a business owner. This 90-minute virtual workshop will explore the key factors that contribute to a successful pricing strategy, helping you avoid common pitfalls like underpricing and overpricing. You’ll learn why lower prices don’t always mean higher sales and how understanding your customers’ perception of value can unlock your business’s true earning potential. Walk away with actionable insights and strategies to price confidently, ensuring profitability and sustainability for your business.

Register in advance for this meeting

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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Small Business BIRT and CAL Information Session

April 22, 2025 | Online Workshop
12 or 6 p.m.

Learn how to set up your BIRT account and CAL to ensure compliance and business success. (These Sessions are live on Zoom)

Information sessions, where business can gain essential insights into business registration and compliance. These Sessions will cover how to create a Business Income & Receipts Tax (BIRT) account, obtain a Commercial Activity License (CAL), and gain and understanding to the Department of Commerce Mayor’s Business Action Team (MBAT) services. Whether you're launching a new venture or looking to ensure compliance, this workshop will help you to navigate Philadelphia’s business requirements with confidence. The presenter at the upcoming session is Shanshan Ma, a Business Navigator on the MBAT team.

Register for the 12 p.m. session

Register for the 6 p.m. session

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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Complying with Consumer Law for Small Business

April 22, 2025 | Online Workshop
3 p.m.

Attorney Zane Johnson will cover key consumer regulations, like the Pennsylvania Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, that affect how you market, sell, and deliver your products or services. You’ll learn practical tips to avoid deceptive practices, ensure transparency in your transactions, and comply with common laws like refund policies and advertising standards. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of your legal obligations and the confidence to operate your business ethically and responsibly.

Register in advance for this meeting

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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Negotiating Commercial Lease Agreements for Small Business

May 13, 2025 | Online Workshop
3 p.m.

Leasing a space is a big investment, and understanding how to navigate the terms can save you money and protect your business. Attorney Zane Johnson will break down key provisions like rent adjustments, maintenance responsibilities, and termination clauses, and share strategies to negotiate terms that work in your favor. By the end, you’ll have the tools to approach lease negotiations with confidence and ensure your agreement supports your business goals.

Register in advance for this meeting

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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