Entrepreneurial Insights is an email newsletter designed to provide snippets of the SBDC at FGCU’s knowledge and insights to the SWFL entrepreneurial and business communities. Filled with articles about current issues in the business world and recommendations on how to thrive in this community, the Entrepre- neurial Insights email newsletter is your one-stop shop for all things small bus- iness and SBDC. March Workshops with the SBDC March 6 Pitch Perfect: How to Impress VCs From the Funder’s View Are you ready to take your startup pitch to the next level? Understanding what venture capitalists (VCs) look for in potential investments is crucial to securing funding. This webinar provides insider insights into the investor mindset—what captures their attention, what raises red flags, and what ultimately drives them to invest. Participants will learn how to craft a compelling and targeted pitch deck, highlight key value propositions that set their business apart, and navigate common objections with confidence. Through expert-led discussions, attendees will refine their storytelling, strengthen their delivery, and develop a strategic ap- proach that resonates with funders. Whether you’re pitching for the first time or looking to improve your fundraising strategy, this session offers practical and actionable takeaways and real-world guidance to help you stand out and make a lasting impression. Presented by Tahl Milburn of Seedfunders. Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:00 PM — 2:00 PM Location: Online Register Here for Tahl’s Webinar March 11 Finding Hidden Cash in Your Business Businesses must have cash to survive. Have you ever looked at an Income State- ment to see that your business is growing and profitable, but then reviewed your bank account to find that it is in negative territory? Sales, revenue, and profits do not pay the bills. Without cash, companies find themselves unable to pay their vendors, rent, utilities, employees, and other expenses, resources, and fixed as- sets to support their revenue. Entrepreneurs need to understand these issues and the challenges that are involved. CASH is ALWAYS KING! There are many poc- kets of cash that are constantly overlooked and hidden. This presentation will identify the Hidden Cash that companies should find to enable them to run and grow their business. The hidden cash is on your financial statements and tax re- turns. Learn how to Identify them and get the CASH NOW! Tuesday, March 11, 2025 11:00 AM — 12:00 PM Location: Online Register Here for Neil’s Webinar March 19 Business Model, Made Simple! Are you starting to map out your business idea? Does your business need a fresh approach to attract new customers? In this workshop, develop a simple, clear, practical business model to bring your vision to life or reignite your existing bus- iness with new energy! Wednesday, March 19, 2025 10:00 AM — 11:30 AM Location: Clewiston Chamber of Commerce 109 Central Ave Clewiston, Florida 33440 Register Here for Andrea’s In-Person Workshop March 20 Financing Growth: Best Practices for Manufacturers Growing your business requires money. Join the Florida SBDC and local lenders to find out when you should apply for a loan, what programs are available, and how to effectively prepare a loan application. Thursday, March 20, 2025 2:00 PM — 3:30 PM Location: Online Register Here for Suzanne’s Webinar March 24 Develop Your Unique Business Pitch for Rural Communities Have you ever found it challenging to explain what your business does in a net- working setting? Do you want to feel more confident delivering a clear and com- pelling pitch? In this workshop, we’ll break down the four key components of an effective business pitch—one that feels natural and resonates with your audience. You’ll craft a unique one-liner that can be used in networking events, email signa- tures, and marketing materials to help your business stand out. Plus, we’ll discuss how to adapt your message during times of crisis or economic uncertainty, a reality many rural businesses face. Join us for this hands-on session and walk away with a pitch that works for you, wherever you do business! Monday, March 24, 2025 10:00 AM — 11:30 AM Location: Online Register Here for Andrea’s Webinar March 24 Small Business Library Series: Securing a Small Business Loan Welcome to our Small Business Library Series. Do you need capital to start or grow your business? Are you bankable? What do small business lenders look for in a loan application? Learn the secrets of getting a small business loan. Presented by Suzanne Specht, Florida Gulf Coast University Small Business Development Center and Lisa Portnoy Hurm, VP BankUnited. Monday, March 24, 2025 2:00 PM — 4:30 PM Location: Fort Myers Regional Library South Building, Meeting Room AB 1651 Fort Myers, FL 33901 Register Here for Suzanne’s In-Person Workshop Contact the SBDC for more information Want to request a topic or give more feedback? Click Here |