Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Beginning one week from today, The University of Alabama Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will host a series of business seminars aimed at helping entrepreneurs and small business owners in Baldwin County and nearby areas. The seminars will run through April 10th and offer practical information and resources to support business growth in 2025 and beyond.

Each event is tailored to address specific business needs, from starting a new business to navigating the challenges of operating an existing one. Topics include business structure, funding opportunities, artificial intelligence tools, and operational strategies, providing participants with actionable guidance and access to helpful resources. These workshops also offer opportunities to network with other professionals and connect with local business organizations.

Below is a detailed list of events in this seminar series…

Starting a Business in Baldwin County
Hosts: Alabama SBDC, Coastal Alabama Bus. Chamber, Hand in Hand Bus Ctr.

Date: Thursday, January 30, 2025
Time: Doors open at 8:00 AM for Coffee and Contacts (pre-registration required); the seminar begins promptly at 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Hand in Hand Business Center at First Presbyterian Church, 309 E 21st Ave, Gulf Shores, AL (Parking and entrance at rear of building)
Description: This workshop is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs of all ages, from millennials to encore business owners. Topics include LLC development, business licenses, tax responsibilities, financing options, and resources to start and grow your business.
Cost: Free (Pre-Registration required; space is limited)
Registration Link: Starting a Business in Baldwin County - in Person ONLY

Operating Your New Business in 2025
Hosts: Alabama SBDC, Coastal Alabama Business Chamber

Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Time: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM; Doors open at 8AM; pre-registration required
Location: Coastal Alabama Business Chamber, McCarron Conference Room
Description: If you’ve already started your business but still need startup assistance, this seminar will help you navigate challenges and optimize operations.
Cost: Free (Pre-Registration required; space is limited)
Registration Link: Operating your NEW Business in 2025 - in Person ONLY

AI Unlocked: Empower Your Business with ChatGPT, Beautiful AI, and More!
Hosts: SBDC at ASU and UA; Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce

Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Time: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM; Doors open at 8:00 AM
Location: Loxley Civic Center, 4198 Municipal Park Drive, Loxley, AL
Description: This innovative seminar, in partnership with Alabama State University SBDC, will explore how artificial intelligence tools can revolutionize your business. Perfect for community leaders, nonprofits, and businesses seeking to stay ahead of the curve.
Cost: Free (Registration required for preparations)
Registration Link: AI Unlocked: Empower Your Business with ChatGPT, Beautiful Ai and More! 

Funding Lab: Expand Your Access to Capital
Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Time: 8:30am – 10:00am
Location: Central Baldwin Courthouse Annex, 22251 Palmer Street, Robertsdale, AL
Description: Learn how Alabama’s Small Business Credit Initiative and LendAL can provide small businesses with expanded access to capital. This seminar includes a detailed explanation of funding options through Innovate Alabama’s programs.
Cost: Free
Registration Link: AssistAL: The Funding Lab - Baldwin County

These seminars reflect the Alabama SBDC’s commitment to fostering small business growth and economic development throughout Alabama. Don’t miss these and other opportunities to learn, connect, and grow your business through Workshops & Webinars - Alabama Small Business Development Center.

For more information or to register, visit www.asbdc.org or contact Yolanda Devine Johnson at yolanda.johnson@ua.edu.