Below are the Renaissance classes and programs schedule. You need to be a client to register for these classes. If you are a client, log in to the client portal here. If you are new, get started here.
*To find classes available in Spanish, please click the ‘Event Category’ button and choose ‘En español’ from the options provided.
🖥️Federal Contracting (WBC 07/22/26)
The United States Federal Government is the largest buyer of products and services on the planet! This creates a competitive environment where thousands upon thousands of businesses, both large and small, are battling for a chance to sell their products and service into this huge
marketplace. This is where the power of Federal Certifications comes into play and allows greater opportunity and access for the small business community.
Designed for business owners who are interested in applying for a federal certification, and for those who already have one, but want advice on how to take full advantage of their certification. You’ll learn about each Federal socio-economic certification, how to qualify,
the application process, and the pro’s and con’s of each certification. This webinar will also discuss how certifications actually work in federal contracting. We will also cover the website SAM.GOV and its importance, challenges, and opportunities. The very first step in seeking federal contracts and getting a federal certification is being able to
correctly register your business on SAM.GOV. Then once you’re registered on the site, using SAM.GOV’s database to understand which agencies offer sole source and set-aside contracts using specific certifications.
Topics include:’
- Doing Business with the Federal Government
– Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB)
– Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
– Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
– Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
– 8(a) Business Development Program
– HUBZone - Sole Source, Set-Aside and Subcontracting Opportunities
- Overview of each federal certification and how to qualify
- The application process and timeline
- SAM.GOV – Where it all starts
– Using SAM.GOV to find new opportunities and marketing research
Facilitator: Tara Cruz
Tara Cruz is a strategic business consultant with a passion for helping others chase their dreams. Her journey began when she left a high-profile management position in the Bay Area, diving headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship in 2017. Despite facing numerous challenges, Tara’s resilience and determination have led her to become a respected foundation setter for aspiring business owners.
In 2017, Tara took a leap of faith by restoring a 2,200 square foot building, transforming it into a thriving business space. This experience, coupled with her background in marketing, management, and startups, has equipped her with invaluable insights into the entrepreneurial process. Tara’s expertise lies in assisting clients with business alignment, marketing strategies, and branding.As a strategic consultant, Tara is known for her ability to bring clarity and focus to business owners’ visions, aligning their goals with actionable plans for success. She creates safe spaces for creativity, futuristic thinking, and calculated risk-taking, playing a pivotal role in shaping the direction and success of business development.
Throughout her career, Tara has demonstrated an ability to adapt and pivot, particularly during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her diverse skill set and experience in rebranding have made her an asset to businesses looking to navigate uncertain times and emerge stronger.
When she’s not guiding entrepreneurs towards success, Tara cherishes spending quality time with her three children and grand-dog, finding balance between her professional passion and personal life.
Note: Our services and programs are open to all entrepreneurs. All Renaissance WBC/SOMA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.
All clients must register for classes via your client portal account. Here’s how you can do it.
Already a Renaissance Client?
Log in to your client portal and access the calendar at the top of your screen
New to the Renaissance Community?
Get started by filling out a client interest form and attending an orientation.
*All clients must complete an interest form and attend orientation before signing up for classes.*
Renaissance WBC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the SBA. All SBA programs or cosponsored programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made, if requested, at least 2 weeks in advance. Contact: wbc@rencenter.org, (415) 894-9779