Small Business Symposium

Join the Erie County Public Library and NWPA Beehive Network for the first Small Business Symposium—a day of classes for unrealized entrepreneurs on topics you need to know! Call 814-451-6927 to register. The event is FREE! Lunch included thanks to the Erie Technology Incubator at Gannon University. 

Participants will build their own schedule from the available programs and have an option to learn more about the Beehive Network or take a tour of the library. 

Registration opens on February 18 and is limited to 60 people. Participants must register by phone and indicate their preferred workshop schedule, by calling the reference desk at 814.451.6927. 

There will be two programs for each session and attendees choose which program they will attend when they register. Please attend the sessions you signed up for as space is limited.

9:30 AM Welcome (everyone)

9:45 AM Programs (Choose 1): 

How to Get Financing: Chris Groner will explain the various ways to finance your business in Erie County.

Small Business Leadership: Kyle Churman, owner of Werner Books, will discuss how to lead your small business to success.

11:15 AM Programs (Choose 1):

Branding Your Business: Scott Gladd will talk about how to create a memorable brand for your small business.

Mapping Out Your New Business: Brad Gleason will help you make the pivot from hobby/problem-solving and idea to viable business.

12:15 PM Lunch Break

1 PM Programs (Choose 1):

Marketing Analysis 101: Nimalan Paul will explain how to understand what the market needs, estimate your business's potential, and analyze competitors to help your business grow.

Intellectual Property: Jonathan D’Silva will answer all your questions about intellectual property from copyright to trademark to patents and more!

2:45 PM Programs (Choose 1):

Legally Preparing Your Business for Change: John Leemhuis will discuss how to protect your business during times of change using the law.

Social Media Marketing: Chris Lantinen will talk about creating a successful social media marketing plan for your business.

4 PM Optional: 

Learn more about the Beehive Network, tour the library, or watch the Glowforge create metal business cards and learn about opportunities to make your own.