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Locations: San Francisco SoMa/WBC

🖥️Business Prep (WBC 02/26/26 – 04/30/26)

This isn’t just a class—it’s a journey in small business training designed to help you build confidence and move your business forward. Through weekly lessons, hands-on assignments, and expert guidance, you’ll gain the skills and clarity to take actionable next steps. Whether you’re just starting out, need guidance, or want to create a solid business plan, Business Prep equips you with the tools and support to turn your entrepreneurial vision into reality.

Who is this course for?

  • Entrepreneurs ready to turn ideas into action
  • Business owners seeking a clear and structured plan
  • Start Smart graduates ready for the next step

In this 10-week series you will:

Week 1. Create your mission and business plan outline
Week 2. Explore operations and management essentials
Weeks 3-4. Master marketing basics and customer engagement
Week 5. Strengthen operations for efficiency and growth
Week 6. Build leadership skills for hiring and management.
Week 7. Manage finances and understand financial statements
Week 8. Learn to plan ahead with financial forecasting
Week 9. Address risks, insurance, and growth strategies
Week 10. Finalize your plan and prepare for the next steps

What you’ll learn

  • Writing a clear and compelling mission statement
  • Assessing your skills, passions, and resources
  • Creating a strategy that aligns with your goals
  • How to test the feasibility of your idea

Facilitator: Dr. Dene Starks

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 is 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.*

POWERED BY SBA - U.S Small Business Administration

 

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: Women Business Center wbc@rencenter.org, (415) 894-9779.

🖥️Start Smart (WBC 01/22/26 – 02/12/26)

Learn the business fundamentals to starting a business. Register now- to understand your business strategy and see if you have a viable business or service.

Discover How To:

  • Define your vision
  • Create a mission statement
  • Assess your skills, passion, and resources
  • Craft a business strategy to match your reality
  • Test the viability of your products and services

Facilitator: Vanessa Zamy 

All clients must register for classes via your client portal account. Here’s how you can do it.

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 is 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.*

POWERED BY SBA - U.S Small Business Administration

 

 

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: Women Business Center wbc@rencenter.org, (415) 894-9779

📍Coffee & Community (WBC 12/17/25)

Coffee & Community NETWORKING MIXER

Date: December 17              Location: Avotoasty (Fidi location)
Join us for a cozy Coffee & Community gathering to reflect on the year, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and enjoy the season together. A relaxed morning of coffee, community, light bites, and celebration…..because you’ve earned it.

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.

 

 

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: Women Business Center wbc@rencenter.org, (415) 894-9779

📍Women Mean Business : Next Level Business (WBC 12/10/25)

Women Mean Business NETWORKING MIXER

Title: Next Level Business               Date: December 10              Location: ZOË Cocktail Bar & Bites

Women Mean Business is a gathering to network and reflect on the courage, commitment, and creativity it took to build your business and to explore tools to take it to the next level. Join us to celebrate your journey, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and learn growth strategies with Ericka Scott.

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.

 

 

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: Women Business Center wbc@rencenter.org, (415) 894-9779

Holiday Night Market @ CZI 2025

About this event

Join us for a magical evening at the Holiday Night Marketplace! Support local small businesses while enjoying festive vibes and finding unique, handcrafted gifts.

Savor delicious food, enter exciting raffles, and soak in the holiday spirit. Bring family and friends for a night of celebration and community connection.

Shop local. Support small. Celebrate big!

Get your ticket(s) here

Please note: We exclusively accept electronic payments for ticket purchases. Accepted payment methods include all major credit/debit cards and digital payment systems. This policy helps streamline the process and enhance security for all attendees. Thank you for your cooperation!

If you can’t attend but would still like to support, you can donate here!

Register here to apply to be a vendor. 

🖥️Running a Small Business in the Age of AI: Legal Risks and Responsible Practices (WBC & SSTB 12/09/2025)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping how businesses operate — but for small business entrepreneurs, the legal and ethical questions can feel just as pressing as the technical “how-tos.”

This webinar will demystify AI for small business owners by focusing on what you need to know to stay protected and compliant. We’ll cover the legal landscape, from intellectual property (IP) ownership and infringement risks to data privacy obligations and transparency requirements.

We’ll also discuss the potential pitfalls of using AI tools in your daily operations — including what to watch out for when generating prompts, handling sensitive customer information, or relying on AI-generated content. While we won’t provide marketing tips or business development strategies, we will highlight trusted resources you can consult for that kind of support.

By the end of this session, you’ll understand the key risks, protections, and practical boundaries to keep in mind when using AI in your small business, so you can explore these tools responsibly and with confidence.

Thank you to the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center and the Harlem Community Development Center for partnering with us on this event!

Register here:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_J7RvLrnIQ32Gp-ULqesD5Q#/registration

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 is 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.*

POWERED BY SBA - U.S Small Business Administration

 

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: Women Business Center wbc@rencenter.org, (415) 894-9779.

🖥️Pasos para Crear un Presupuesto de Negocios (WBC 12/8/25)

¿¿Sabe cuánto necesita para que su negocio funcione bien? Aprenda a planificar sus ingresos y gastos de manera clara y ordenada con un presupuesto realista y útil. Este taller le enseñará paso a paso cómo armar un presupuesto que le ayude a tomar mejores decisiones, evitar sorpresas y alcanzar sus metas financieras.

Instructor:

Ruby Vargas

Como Director de Salud y Seguridad con más de 10 años de experiencia, he tenido la oportunidad de apoyar a diversas empresas y organizaciones comunitarias en el fortalecimiento de sus operaciones mediante capacitación, orientación sobre cumplimiento normativo y estrategias centradas en la salud.

Mi experiencia incluye el desarrollo y la dirección de capacitaciones en salud y seguridad, la asistencia a empresas para la estructuración de sus operaciones y la implementación de iniciativas de salud comunitaria que promueven entornos seguros, sostenibles y resilientes. Me especializo en ayudar a propietarios de pequeñas empresas a comprender y aplicar los requisitos de cumplimiento normativo, crear espacios de trabajo seguros y saludables, y alinear sus prácticas con las normativas locales y las mejores prácticas del sector.

Nota: Nuestros servicios y programas están abiertos a todos los emprendedores. Todos los programas y servicios de Renaissance WBC/SOMA se ofrecen al público sin discriminación.

Es un programa creado por la California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) para proporcionar las herramientas y recursos necesarios para que los pequeños emprendedores diversos de California puedan acceder a oportunidades de financiamiento y alcanzar el éxito para sus negocios.

Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center participa en el programa de SCALE como Socio de Recursos. A través de esta iniciativa, nosotros te conectaremos con una amplia red de socios que podrán proporcionar todos los recursos necesarios para preparar una solicitud de préstamo.

Todos los clientes deben registrarse para las clases a través de su cuenta en el portal de clientes. Así es cómo puedes hacerlo:

¿Ya eres cliente de Renaissance?

Inicia sesión en tu portal de cliente y accede al calendario en la parte superior de tu pantalla.

¿Eres nuevo en la comunidad de Renaissance?

Comienza llenando un formulario de interés y nos pondremos en contacto para crear un portal de cliente.

*Todos los clientes deben completar un formulario de interés y asistir a una orientación antes de inscribirse en las clases.

POWERED BY SBA - U.S Small Business Administration

 

Renaissance WBC se financia en parte a través de un acuerdo de cooperación con la Administración de Pequeñas Empresas de EE. UU. Todas las opiniones, conclusiones o recomendaciones expresadas son las del autor (es) y no reflejan necesariamente el punto de vista de la SBA. Todos los programas de la SBA o programas copatrocinados se extienden al público de forma no discriminatoria. Se realizarán adaptaciones razonables para personas con discapacidades, si se solicitan, al menos con 2 semanas de anticipación. Contacto:  Women Business Center Phone (415) 894-9779

📍2-week Profitability Boost Series: For Existing Storefronts and Restaurants (WBC Dec.8 & 15)

Ready to take your business to the next level? 💼📈 Join us for this hands-on, in-person 2-week workshop series designed specifically for existing storefronts and restaurants looking to increase their profitability before the new year! 🎯💰

In this results-driven series, you’ll learn how to:
🍽️ Optimize operations for better margins
🛍️ Attract and retain more local customers
📊 Track key financial metrics that matter
🧾 Cut unnecessary costs without cutting quality

Session 1 : Storefronts That Sell
Teach merchants how to attract customers through storefront appeal and customer experience


Session 2: The Art of Structuring Cross-Promotion

Build collaboration between different types of businesses to increase foot traffic and revenue

✨ Ideal for brick-and-mortar business owners who want actionable strategies, real results, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs.

📅 Dates: December 8 & 15 at 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
📍 Location:  4400 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112
🎟️ Limited spots available – reserve yours today!

Facilitador: Ericka Scott

Ericka Scott is the current Director of District Projects with the San Francisco African American Arts & Cultural District (SFAAACD). Ericka is a San Francisconative and has served in various capacities in the area of economic development
throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Ericka studied American Studies with an emphasis in Urban Development at UC Berkeley.
Ericka is a graduate of the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center and has been a consultant and Entrepreneur instructor for 19 years, supporting over 200 entrepreneurs to develop their business plans, build business strategies and
perfect the art of business presentations. In 2018, Ericka founded Honey Art Studio, a business that uses art to build relationships, provide creative ways to explore social justice, a healing space and a safe atmosphere for ‘non-creatives’ to tap into a fun and relaxing form of self-expression. Throughout her many endeavors, Ericka’s primary mission is to provide resources and tools to bridge communities, empower and inspire others.

 

This workshop is offered by Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center and funded by the Office of Economic and Workforce Development to support small businesses in the Excelsior neighborhood of San Francisco

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 is 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.*

POWERED BY SBA - U.S Small Business Administration

 

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: Women Business Center wbc@rencenter.org, (415) 894-9779.

Holiday Market

About this event

Business • Other

Holiday Market at One Market Street

Get ready to sip, shop, and celebrate the season at our Holiday Market!

Wednesday, December 10th
3:00 – 6:30 PM
One Market Street, San Francisco

Enjoy an afternoon filled with festive cheer as you explore treasures from 20+ local vendors offering:

  • Artisan Goods – handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, textiles & original art
  • Packaged Foods & Beverages – chocolates, baked goods, teas, coffees & spices
  • Holiday-Themed Items – ornaments, candles, décor & gift sets
  • Fashion & Accessories – scarves, hats, handbags & eco-friendly apparel
  • Wellness & Lifestyle – skincare, aromatherapy & natural beauty products
  • Community & Nonprofit Vendors – giftable goods with purpose

Special Treat: Each RSVP includes one complimentary beverage to sip while you shop!

Support local makers, discover unique holiday finds, and kick off the season in style—right in the heart of San Francisco.

Register today! Mark your calendar, bring a friend, and enjoy this holiday market!

Complimentary admission for tenants One Market Plaza with code.

Register here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-market-tickets-1770023340459?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Holiday Market at Embarcadero Center

About this event

Holiday • Christmas

Join Us for a Magical Evening at Holiday Market! 🎄

Get into the festive spirit with an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer! Explore a vibrant marketplace filled with local shops, groove to live music, sip festive drinks, play games, and indulge in delicious seasonal bites.

As the evening winds down, gather for the dazzling grand finale—watch Embarcadero Center light up the sky with 17,000 sparkling lights.✨

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📅 Save the Date: Wednesday, November 19th
🕓 Time: 4 PM – 6 PM
📍 Location: Urban Patio of Three Embarcadero Center (Street Level & Adjacent Retail Space)

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🎟️ Admission is FREE — first come, first served. Must be 21 years or older to consume alcohol. A valid I.D. or Driver’s License is required upon entry.

Register here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-market-at-embarcadero-center-tickets-1708832687569?aff=ebdssbdestsearch