Small business owners and entrepreneurs are invited to the city of Oakland’s 2024 Small Business Week from April 28 to May 3.
Curated by the city’s Economic and Workforce Development Department, this year’s Small Business Week will feature 15 free in-person and virtual workshops, panel discussions, and other events for business owners to learn new skills and connect with fellow merchants. Events include:
- City of Oakland Small Business Resource Fair – April 30 from 2-4 p.m. Location TBD
- Multicultural Mixer – May 1 from 5-7 p.m. Location TBD
- Celebration of Oakland Small Businesses – May 3 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Geoffrey’s Inner Circle in downtown Oakland
In addition, there will be virtual workshops on how small businesses can use artificial intelligence, tax incentive programs and loans for business owners, and commercial corridor activation. In-person and hybrid seminars include security and safety tips for small businesses, how entrepreneurs can secure capital (also available in Spanish), and strategies for businesses to expand their online and social media presence.
A full list of events is available on the Small Business Week website.
A dozen organizations have partnered with the Economic and Workforce Development Department to host Small Business Week, including Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Oakland Don’t Play Inc., The Unity Council, and various chambers of commerce.
