Small Business Week Events 2025

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• Small Business Book Club: StoryBrand 2.0 (Session 1 at Lilburn Branch, GCPL)

  • When
    May 05, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Lilburn Branch GCPL, 4817 Church Street, Lilburn, GA 30047-6827

  Register

  
  

  About the Book Club

  This group isn't just about reading, it's about dynamic interactions that can reshape your business strategies. Join us to engage in insightful discussions and connect with likeminded entrepreneurs.

  • Open to any sector
  • Free registration, no cost to attend
  • Open to any stage of business
  • Read the book or just listen in!

  Note: This event is taking place at the Lilburn Branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library. 

  About the Book

  Building a StoryBrand 2.0: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller 

  This book can be purchased at Amazon or anywhere books are sold. Note: We will be discussing the 2.0 book (not the original). 

  When you apply the StoryBrand framework your brand will stand out. Developing that framework to clarify your message and grow your business is about to get a whole lot simpler. . .

  Since the original publication of Building a StoryBrand, over one million business leaders have discovered Donald Miller's powerful StoryBrand framework, and their businesses are growing. Now, the classic resource for connecting with customers has been fully revised and updated, making it an even more powerful tool to prepare you to engage customers.

  In Building a StoryBrand 2.0, Donald Miller not only deepens his teaching on how to use his seven universal story elements—he'll provide you with one of the most powerful and cutting-edge tools to help with your brand messaging efficacy and output.

  This event is sponsored by: 

  www.designdesk.tech

  Thank you!

  Contact Greg Goebel at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com

  Note: Our small business programs are specifically geared toward adults who are starting or running a small business. Therefore, we are unable to accommodate children in GEC groups, classes, workshops, and other events.

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• How to do Business with Gwinnett County

  • When
    May 06, 2025
  •  
    10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
  • Location
    GEC Training Room 405 North Perry St., Lawrenceville, GA

  Register

  
  

  Interested in learning more about becoming a vendor for the County?

  Wondering if Gwinnett County buys what your small business sells?

  Curious what the process is to avail yourself of these opportunities?

  If so, you don’t want to miss this!

  
  

  On May 6th, the Gwinnett County Purchasing Division will be partnering with the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center to provide training on:

  How to do Business with Gwinnett County

  Attendees of this 90-minute session will gain a clear understanding of how to:

  • navigate the county website to find bidding opportunities
  • register as a vendor
  • complete and submit bid documents for County procurements

  
  

  Who should attend? Any small business who wants to learn more about selling their products or services to Gwinnett County.

  
  

  
  

  COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

  This session will be presented: BOTH LIVE IN PERSON & VIRTUALLY.

  You may join us in the training room (seating is limited) or participate virtually. Please indicate your preference when registering.

  For those attending virtually, a link will be sent prior to the program.

  
  

  For further information please contact Stephanie Sokenis at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Presented By: 

  Gwinnett County Purchasing Division

  
  

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• Small Business Morning Collective

  • When
    May 07, 2025
  •  
    7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
  • Location
    In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville

  Register

  
  

  
  

  The GEC Small Business Collectives provide a comfortable and confidential environment for small business entrepreneurs to share ideas and discuss the challenges of business. These peer-to-peer gatherings last for 90 minutes, providing a convenient opportunity for busy individuals to come together, network, and collaborate.

  Registration is free, open to the public. Coffee & water provided. Feel free to bring your breakfast. 

  Morning Collective

  Meets on:

  First & Third Wednesday 

  of Each Month

  PLUS special networking breakfast every fifth Wednesday! 

  In person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville

  7:30am - 9:00am

  Visit our Small Business Collectives Page

  Contact Greg Goebel at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com

  _____________________________

  Thank you to our sponsor, Cornerstone Coworking!

  A community of thriving professionals & entrepreneurs

  

  
  

  
  

  Note: Our small business programs are specifically geared toward adults who are starting or running a small business. In addition, our building is specifically set up as an adult learning and business center. Therefore, we are unable to accommodate children in our groups, classes, workshops, and other events.
  

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• Doing Business in Lawrenceville

  • When
    May 07, 2025
  •  
    1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    GEC Training Room 405 North Perry St., Lawrenceville, GA

  Register

  

  Doing Business in Lawrenceville
  

  Who should attend? 

  This event is highly recommended for small business owners and entrepreneurs who are interested in starting or expanding their business ventures in the City of Lawrenceville.

  
  

  
  

  Join us for an exclusive Q&A session with a panel of experts from the City of Lawrenceville and local organizations that offer valuable resources to small businesses. This is your chance to get your pressing questions answered and gain insights from industry professionals, such as:

  • Strategies for effectively navigating the business licenses and permit process in the city of Lawrenceville.
  • Important considerations to keep in mind regarding zoning regulations within the city.
  • Available local resources to support small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs.
  • Cost-effective or free professional development options to enhance your business skills.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  

  COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

  This session will be presented: BOTH LIVE IN PERSON & VIRTUALLY.

  You may join us in the training room (seating is limited) or participate virtually. Please indicate your preference when registering.  For those attending virtually, the Zoom link will be sent via email the day before the event.

  For further information, please contact Stephanie Sokenis at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com

  
  

  
  

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• Starting a Business Roundtable

  • When
    May 08, 2025
  •  
    10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
  • Location
    405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville, GA

  Register

  

  
  

  Registration: Limited to 15 Attendees

  Registration opens 30 days before event

  In Person Only

  Join us for an engaging and interactive roundtable designed for aspiring entrepreneurs! This in-person session offers a unique opportunity to discuss the realities of starting a business, share ideas, and gain valuable insights from a successful entrepreneur. With a small group format, you'll benefit from personalized attention and meaningful conversations with like-minded individuals.

  Key Takeaways for Attendees:

  • Realistic Expectations: Understand the hard work, sacrifices, and challenges involved in starting a business.
  • Self-Assessment: Learn how to evaluate your personal commitment, risk tolerance, and financial readiness.
  • Business Matching: Discover tips for choosing the right business based on your interests, skills, and passions.
  • Resource Access: Get information on free resources, tools, and templates to help you plan and launch your business.
  • Expert Insights: Gain valuable advice and reflections from successful entrepreneurs who have navigated the journey.

  Who should attend:

  • Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Individuals who are in the early stages of exploring business ideas and seeking guidance on how to turn their concepts into viable ventures.
  • Current Small Business Owners: Entrepreneurs who have recently started their businesses and are looking for advice on overcoming initial challenges, refining their business strategies, and networking with peers.
  • Professionals Considering Career Transitions: Individuals who are contemplating a shift from their current careers to entrepreneurship and want to understand the practicalities, risks, and rewards of starting their own businesses.

  Why Attend?
  

  This roundtable is your chance to dive deep into the realities of starting a business, guided by experienced entrepreneurs and experts. You'll gain realistic insights, assess your readiness, and learn how to align your business idea with your passions and skills. With personalized advice and access to valuable resources, you'll leave empowered and equipped to take the next steps toward making your business dream a reality. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and start your entrepreneurial journey on the right foot!

  About the Roundtable Facilitator

  David E. McCulloch

  

  David McCulloch is the founder and CEO of DE McCulloch & Associates, a consulting firm that guides and supports aspiring entrepreneurs. He currently counsels members and program participants at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center. He also serves as a mentor and class facilitator with the New Start Entrepreneurship Incubator Program at the Gwinnett Public Library. He has over 25 years of experience in postsecondary education, serving in executive roles overseeing workforce training and leadership development for Gwinnett Technical College and the University of Georgia Terry College of Business. He is a retired attorney, specializing in the areas of real estate acquisition and development.

  Register Today!

  

  Due to the limited seating, we kindly request that you register only if you are confident in your ability to attend. This consideration ensures that everyone who is eager to participate has the opportunity. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

  
  

  
  

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• Entrepreneur Center Tour

  • When
    May 08, 2025
  •  
    11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30046

  Register

  

  If you are interested in learning more about what the Center offers, a great first step is a visit. To accommodate that we are pleased to offer Staff-guided scheduled tours.

  The Staff-guided Tour will walk you through in small groups, escorted by a Center staff member.

  This one-hour tour offers direct insight into the benefits, purpose and mission of the Center as well as an opportunity for questions and answers.

  For more information about the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center visit www.GwinnettEntrepreneurCenter.com  

  
  

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• Speed Networking for Entrepreneurs

  • When
    May 09, 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Bogan Park Community Center, 2723 North Bogan Road, Buford, GA, 30519

  Register

  

  

  Speed Networking for Entrepreneurs

  Hosted by the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at Bogan Park Community Center at 2723 North Bogan Road, Buford, 30519 (Community Room)

  Registration Required: Limited to 40 Attendees

  Format: In-Person Only

  Requirements: This is a fast paced, dynamic event. To make it work, each participant must register in advance and arrive on time. If you decide not to attend, please change your registration to cancelled so someone on the waiting list can attend. 

  Grow Your Business with High-Value Connections

  Looking to meet the right people to help your business grow? This Speed Networking event is designed to help:

  • entrepreneurs
  • small business owners
  • professionals

  You will connect with potential clients, partners, and collaborators in a fast-paced, engaging format.

  Walk away with:

  • new leads
  • new contacts 
  • new business opportunities 

  while strengthening your network.
  

  What You’ll Gain:

  • New Business Leads & Referrals – Meet like-minded professionals who can introduce you to potential customers or collaborators.
  • Stronger Professional Network – Build relationships with business owners, service providers, and industry experts.
  • Practice & Perfect Your Pitch – Learn how to introduce your business quickly and effectively.
  • Opportunities for Growth – Gain fresh perspectives, advice, and insights from fellow entrepreneurs.

  How It Works:

  This structured networking event ensures that every participant meets multiple new contacts in short, focused conversations. You’ll rotate through quick introductions, exchanging business details, discussing opportunities, and identifying ways to collaborate.

  Who Should Attend?

  • Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners – Looking to expand your client base and partnerships.
  • Freelancers & Solopreneurs – Seeking referrals, collaborations, or industry connections.
  • Professionals & Business Leaders – Wanting to connect with local business owners and decision-makers.

  Why Attend?

  If you want to grow your network, generate leads, and connect with valuable resources, this event is for you. Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling a business, or looking for new partnerships, Speed Networking helps you meet the right people—efficiently and effectively.

  Register Today, Space is Limited

  Due to the limited capacity, we kindly ask that you register only if you’re committed to attending.

  This event is hosted by the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center. We look forward to helping you make meaningful connections that move your business forward!

  
  

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