The Economic Development Department is thrilled to announce a weeklong series of small business training sessions tailored for entrepreneurs, creatives, non-profits, and cooperatives during Austin Small Business Week from April 29 to May 3. These sessions are in person at the Economic Development Department office at 5202 East Ben White Blvd., Suite 300. Attendees will gain access to a diverse range of educational topics covering small business management, marketing, finance, and more. All sessions and events are open to the public at no cost.
"Austin Small Business Week is a testament to our commitment to fostering a resilient and growing entrepreneurial ecosystem in Austin”, says Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director of the Economic Development Department. “These training sessions empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in today's competitive business landscape."
Kicking off Austin Small Business Week is the State of Small Business in Austin—Breakfast and Panel Discussion, scheduled for Monday, April 29 at 9 a.m. at the Austin Central Library Special Event Center. The event will feature Adriana Cruz, Executive Director of Texas Economic Development and Tourism in Governor Greg Abbott’s Office, providing a comprehensive update on issues impacting Austin’s small businesses. Additionally, a distinguished panel will highlight areas affecting small businesses, including workforce development, access to capital, and untapped opportunities in Austin.
"Austinites in Travis County owned over 39,000 small businesses in 2021. In Austin, there are approximately three small businesses for every 100 people, compared to the national average of two per 100 people," explains Anthony Segura, Deputy Director of the Economic Development Department. "Acknowledging and strengthening entrepreneurship and the small business community further underscore the significance of Austin Small Business Week."
The Economic Development Department will also recognize more than 20 small business owners receiving their City of Austin Business Skills Certification. Each participant completed at least six small business classes to earn the certificate.
These events honor the entrepreneurial spirit in Austin in conjunction with the National Small Business Week celebration. For more than 50 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration has celebrated National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. Locally, community partners will also offer small business training classes including Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI), BCL of Texas, and PeopleFund.
Registration for Austin Small Business Week sessions is open to the public at no cost. Learn more about business coaching and training opportunities at www.SmallBizAustin.org.