Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center upcoming events

Morning Open House | Small Business Week (May 04, 2026)

Mon, 04 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Small Business Week Open House

This is the RSVP For the Monday, May 4,10:00am Tour Session.

Awareness and Engagement Day

In celebration of National Small Business Week, the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center is hosting a special Open House Day to introduce the community to the resources and support available for entrepreneurs in Gwinnett.

Visitors will have the chance to explore the facility, meet the staff, and connect with small business owners who are part of the incubator program. If you are starting a business, growing one, or simply want to learn what support exists locally, this event is a great first step.

Tour Schedule

Staff-guided tours will be offered throughout the day. Tours last about one hour and include time for questions.

Free registration is required. No walk-ins will be accepted.

10:00 AM – Staff-Guided Tour (This session)

Other Sessions:

1:00 PM – Spanish Language / en espanol Staff-Guided Tour
3:00 PM – Staff-Guided Tour

Location:

405 N. Perry Street, Lawrenceville, 30046

What You Will Experience

Guests will be able to meet Center staff, learn about programs and resources, and hear from small business owners who are part of the incubator program about their experiences. You will also see the facility and learn how the Center supports entrepreneurs through partnerships and local resources.

Even if you have visited before, Small Business Week is a great time to return, meet new staff and entrepreneurs, and learn about the growing support system for businesses in Gwinnett.

If you are interested in learning more about what the Center offers, a visit is the best place to start. Register for a tour time to reserve your spot.

Event contact: gec@gwinnettcounty.com

Casa Abierta | Semana de la Pequeña Empresa (May 04, 2026)

Mon, 04 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Casa Abierta/Open House de la Semana Nacional de los Pequeños Negocios

Este es el formulario de RSVP para la sesión de recorrido (tour) del lunes 4 de mayo a la 1:00 PM en español.

Día de Concientización y Participación

En celebración de la Semana Nacional de los Pequeños Negocios, el Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center está organizando un Día Especial de Casa Abierta (Open House) para presentar a la comunidad los recursos y el apoyo disponibles para los emprendedores en Gwinnett.

Los visitantes tendrán la oportunidad de recorrer las instalaciones, conocer al personal y conectarse con pequeños negocios que forman parte del programa de incubadora. Si está comenzando un negocio, haciendo crecer uno existente o simplemente desea conocer qué apoyo existe a nivel local, este evento es un excelente primer paso.

Horario del Recorrido (Tour)

Se ofrecerán recorridos guiados por el personal durante el día. Cada recorrido dura aproximadamente una hora e incluye tiempo para preguntas.

La inscripción es gratuita y obligatoria. No se aceptarán personas sin registro previo.

1:00 PM – Recorrido guiado por el personal en español

Ubicación

405 N. Perry Street
Lawrenceville, GA 30046

Qué Puede Esperar

Los asistentes podrán conocer al personal del Centro, aprender sobre los programas y recursos disponibles, y escuchar a pequeños negocios que forman parte del programa de incubadora hablar sobre sus experiencias. También podrán recorrer las instalaciones y conocer cómo el Centro apoya a los emprendedores a través de asociaciones y recursos locales.

Incluso si ya ha visitado el Centro anteriormente, la Semana Nacional de las Pequeñas Empresas es un excelente momento para regresar, conocer a nuevos miembros del equipo y emprendedores, y aprender más sobre el creciente sistema de apoyo para negocios en Gwinnett.

Si le interesa conocer más sobre lo que ofrece el Centro, una visita es el mejor lugar para comenzar. Regístrese para reservar su lugar en el recorrido (tour).

Contacto: gec@gwinnettcounty.com

Afternoon Open House | Small Business Week (May 04, 2026)

Mon, 04 May 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Small Business Week Open House

This is the RSVP For the Monday, May 4, 3:00 PM Tour Session.

Awareness and Engagement Day

Tour Schedule

Staff-guided tours will be offered throughout the day. Tours last about one hour and include time for questions.

Free registration is required. No walk-ins will be accepted.

3:00 PM – Staff-Guided Tour (This session)

We are also offering a 10:00 am session and a 1:00 pm session in Spanish.

Location:

405 N. Perry Street, Lawrenceville, 30046

What You Will Experience

Even if you have visited before, Small Business Week is a great time to return, meet new staff and entrepreneurs, and learn about the growing support system for businesses in Gwinnett.

If you are interested in learning more about what the Center offers, a visit is the best place to start. Register for a tour time to reserve your spot.

Event contact: gec@gwinnettcounty.com

Branding and Marketing your Business | Small Business Week (May 05, 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Expert Workshop: Branding and Marketing your Business

Free Registration Required | In-Person and Virtual Options

Join us for Expert Workshop: Branding and Marketing Your Business, an engaging and practical session designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to stand out, connect authentically, and grow with intention. Offered both in person and online, this workshop dives into the fundamentals of building a strong brand and creating marketing strategies that actually resonate in today’s crowded digital landscape.

Led by TEDx speaker, award-winning author, and strategist Robin Nathaniel, this session brings a fresh, human-centered approach to branding and marketing. Drawing from over 20 years of experience in social media and community building, Robin will share real-world insights on how to create meaningful connections, build trust, and grow your presence without getting lost in trends or overwhelmed by constant change.

Whether you're just launching your business or looking to refine your message and reach, this workshop will equip you with clear, actionable strategies to help you market with confidence and purpose.

What you'll get:

Gain clarity on how to define and communicate your brand in an authentic way
Learn practical marketing strategies that prioritize connection over noise
Understand how to build and engage a loyal audience online
Discover how to simplify your marketing approach and focus on what actually works
Avoid common branding and marketing mistakes that slow growth
Walk away with actionable ideas you can immediately apply to your business
Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and expand your network

About Robin Nathaniel

Robin Nathaniel, TEDx Speaker | Award-Winning Author & Strategist
Robin Nathaniel is a social media professional and community builder with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and organizations grow through intentional, human-centered connection. After serving as second-in-command at a $23 million operation in New York City, he relocated to Atlanta and founded his first business, GPS, LLC.

Robin is the author of Social Media SYNC, a multi-award-winning book, and a recipient of multiple globally recognized digital media awards. In 2024, he delivered a TEDx Talk, further establishing his voice as a leader in thoughtful, purpose-driven digital engagement.

In 2026, he launched SportsStackers.com, a community built for creators who value meaningful work, consistent output, and authentic conversation over algorithm-driven noise. His work challenges the fast-paced, automated nature of modern social media, offering a simpler, more human approach to building a presence online.

COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

This session will be available both as a live, in-person event and virtually.

You have the option to join us physically in the training room (note that seats are limited) or to attend online. Indicate your preferred mode of attendance during registration.

Virtual attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

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For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

Start Smart: Financials, Structure, & Compliance | Small Business Week (May 05, 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Start Smart: Financials, Structure, & Compliance

Join us for Start Smart: Financials, Structure, & Compliance, a dynamic expert panel designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to build their business the right way from day one. Offered both in person and online, this session brings together seasoned professionals to break down the essentials of business finances, legal structure, licensing, and compliance in a clear, practical way.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your foundation, this panel will provide real-world insights, actionable strategies, and expert guidance to help you avoid costly mistakes and set your business up for long-term success.

Benefits of Attending

Gain clarity on how to properly structure your business for growth and protection
Learn what financial systems and practices are actually working right now
Understand licensing and compliance requirements without the confusion
Avoid common (and expensive) startup mistakes
Get expert insights you can immediately apply to your business
Connect with professionals and fellow entrepreneurs (both in person and virtually)
Walk away with greater confidence in your business decisions

Panelist Bios

Peter Hildebrandt, SCORE
A serial entrepreneur, product development expert, and certified SCORE mentor, Peter Hildebrandt brings decades of experience launching, scaling, and advising businesses across diverse industries.

Grace Lopez-Williams, CPA
A Certified Public Accountant and financial strategist, Grace Lopez-Williams specializes in tax planning and helping business owners maximize and retain their profits through personalized financial solutions.

Keedra Harris, Financial Manager, Gwinnett County Planning and Development
A financial manager with extensive experience in permitting and licensing, Keedra Harris helps businesses navigate compliance requirements and operate with confidence.

Moderator

Greg Goebel
As Center Manager of the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center, Greg Goebel leads a hub dedicated to supporting small business growth through resources, training, mentorship, and collaborative programs.

COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

This session will be available both as a live, in-person event and virtually.

You have the option to join us physically in the training room (note that seats are limited) or to attend online. Indicate your preferred mode of attendance during registration.

Virtual attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

________________________________________

For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

Exit Smart Webinar: How to Sell, Transfer, or Transition Your Business Successfully | Small Business Week (May 07, 2026)

Thu, 07 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Exit Smart: How to Sell, Transfer, or Transition Your Business Successfully

You've spent years building your business, but when the time comes to step away, how do you make sure you're rewarded for what you've built?

Whether you're thinking about retirement, exploring a sale, or considering passing the business on to a trusted employee or family member, this session will walk you through how to approach your exit with confidence. Many business owners don't realize they have more options than simply finding an outside buyer, and that with the right preparation, every path can lead to full compensation for what they've created.

Join Munashe Makava for a practical, no-fluff conversation about what it actually takes to transition a business successfully, from understanding what makes a business attractive to buyers, to avoiding the common pitfalls that cause deals to collapse.

This session will be available as a virtual webinar only.

What You'll Take Away:

• The exit options available to you, including selling to an outside buyer, transitioning to a family member, or passing the business on to a trusted employee

• How to position yourself to be fully compensated no matter which path you choose

• What buyers actually look for in a business

• How to assess whether you and your business are truly ready for a transition

• The most common deal-killers and how to get ahead of them

• Practical steps to prepare for a smooth and profitable exit

Presenter

Munashe Makava is the Founder and Principal of Operator Capital Advisors, where he advises business owners and business acquirers on succession planning, exit strategy, acquisitions, and long-term value creation. He also serves as President of Lions Pride Building Company, a Georgia-based operator of businesses in concrete pumping and foundation construction. Earlier in his career, Munashe advised on over $50 billion in business sales and acquisitions at Goldman Sachs and worked across lending, investing, and capital raising engagements.

Cost: Free

For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

This session will be available as a virtual webinar only.

Attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

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AI for Small Business Webinar | Small Business Week (May 07, 2026)

Thu, 07 May 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Expert Webinar Panel: AI for Small Business

Join us for AI for Small Business, a dynamic webinar panel designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to understand how to practically use AI to save time, improve operations, and grow more efficiently. This virtual session brings together experienced professionals working at the intersection of AI, business systems, and human-centered design to break down how AI can be applied in real, accessible ways—without the hype or overwhelm.

Whether you’re just starting to explore AI or looking to better integrate it into your day-to-day operations, this panel will provide clear insights, practical examples, and actionable strategies you can immediately apply. From automation and marketing to training and customer experience, you’ll learn how to leverage AI as a tool to work smarter, not harder.

This session will be available as a virtual webinar only.

What You Will Take Away

Gain a clear understanding of how AI can support your business right now
Learn practical ways to automate tasks and improve efficiency
Discover how to use AI without losing the human touch in your brand
Understand how to build simple systems that scale with your business
Avoid common mistakes and misconceptions about AI
Get expert insights grounded in real-world application
Walk away with tools and ideas you can immediately put into action

Panelists

Wonakee Amos, UX Designer, Funnel Builder, and AI Automator

Wonakee Amos helps small businesses streamline their operations and grow smarter through thoughtful design and automation. As a UX designer and funnel builder, she focuses on creating seamless customer journeys while leveraging AI tools to simplify processes, increase efficiency, and support sustainable business growth.

Paige Bradbury, Training Architect

Paige Bradbury works at the intersection of AI, evidence-based learning, and psychological safety, bringing over 20 years of experience in international and virtual training environments. She helps reluctant leaders and learning professionals build human-centered frameworks that translate AI capabilities into measurable performance, stronger teams, and meaningful impact.

Josiah Fielteau, Founder & CEO of Neuronet Design

Josiah Fielteau is the Founder and CEO of Neuronet Design, an AI personalization company dedicated to making AI literacy practical, accessible, and economically empowering. His work focuses on helping individuals and businesses understand and apply AI in ways that drive real opportunity and growth.

For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

This session will be available as a virtual webinar only.

Attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

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Small Business Collectives Morning Mixer | Small Business Week (May 08, 2026)

Fri, 08 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Small Business Collectives Morning Mixer

In-Person at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center | Free Registration Required

Join us for a relaxed and engaging afternoon mixer designed to bring local entrepreneurs together in a fun, welcoming environment.

What to Expect

Enjoy music, light refreshments, and a casual atmosphere
Connect with fellow small business owners and entrepreneurs as we celebrate National Small Business Week
Meet & greet the newly appointed Entrepreneur Center Manager and Center staff
Share what you’re working on and celebrate your recent wins
Learn more about opportunities and resources available at the Center

Why Attend?

Expand your network with meaningful, local connections
Build relationships that can lead to collaborations and referrals
Increase visibility for your business in the community
Gain new ideas and insights from other entrepreneurs
Strengthen your connection to the Entrepreneur Center
Leave feeling energized, supported, and inspired

In-Person at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center | Free Registration Required

Event contact: gec@gwinnettcounty.com