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Locations: San Francisco SoMa/WBC

Cost structures to break-even (WBC 01/21/2026)

This workshop helps small business owners understand the numbers behind reaching their break-even point, something many entrepreneurs struggle with in the early stages. Participants will learn how to identify their fixed and variable costs, set realistic pricing, and calculate the sales needed to cover expenses. The session focuses on practical strategies to help businesses move from loss to sustainability and confidently plan for growth.

Facilitator: Ruby Vargas 

SCALE: It is a program created by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) to provide the tools and resources necessary for diverse small entrepreneurs in California to access financing opportunities and achieve success for their businesses.

Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center participates in the SCALE program as a Resource Partner. Through this initiative, we will connect you with a wide network of partners who can provide all the resources necessary to prepare a loan application.

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.

Preparing financials for lenders (WBC 01/14/2026)

This workshop helps small business owners understand what lenders look for when reviewing financial documents. Participants will learn how to organize and present key financial statements such as profit and loss, cash flow, and balance sheets, to strengthen loan applications and increase their chances of approval. It’s a practical, beginner-friendly session designed to make the lending process clearer and more manageable.

Facilitator: Ruby Vargas 

SCALE: It is a program created by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) to provide the tools and resources necessary for diverse small entrepreneurs in California to access financing opportunities and achieve success for their businesses.

Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center participates in the SCALE program as a Resource Partner. Through this initiative, we will connect you with a wide network of partners who can provide all the resources necessary to prepare a loan application.

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.

Lease Negotiation (WBC 01/15/26)

Learn the key steps, strategies, and terms involved in negotiating a commercial lease. This workshop will help you understand your rights, identify potential pitfalls, and confidently secure a lease that supports your business goals.
Facilitator: Iris Lee
A licensed Real Estate Broker, Iris applies her skills and passion for developing sustainable communities by offering match-making services to small business owners and vacant commercial spaces in San Francisco. She focuses on assisting small business entrepreneurs in achieving their dream of opening a brick and mortar location. Additionally she has been an advocate for small businesses by listening to their needs and uplifting their voice. She has a strong network of providers who have various programs and specialities that can make or break a business who is just beginning, expanding or transforming and is able to identify which services a business owner can benefit from. This also comes with bringing strong community minded entrepreneurs to San Francisco who will continue to support the community at large.

SCALE: It is a program created by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) to provide the tools and resources necessary for diverse small entrepreneurs in California to access financing opportunities and achieve success for their businesses.

Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center participates in the SCALE program as a Resource Partner. Through this initiative, we will connect you with a wide network of partners who can provide all the resources necessary to prepare a loan application.

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.

Business Succession Planning with Confidence (WBC 01/20/2026)

For established Excelsior and Bay Area small businesses, preparing for long-term stability. Learn how to smoothly transition ownership, protect your business value, and prepare for retirement or leadership changes with confidence.

Facilitator: Benjamin Mills Martin, Jr., Attorney at Law

 

Attorney Benjamin Martin is a Business Consultant for the Small Business Development Center.  He conducts workshops and one on one counseling sessions to help small businesses succeed. His private practice supports start-ups and small businesses.  He earned his Juris Doctor degree at Southwestern University Law and his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at Cal State Univ. Los Angeles.

 

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.

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 

Vanessa Zamy, known globally as The Business Defibrillator®, is a distinguished business consultant, dynamic speaker, and bestselling author who is deeply committed to the sustainable success of entrepreneurs. 

Vanessa’s expertise is centered around guiding both new and late-stage business owners to build businesses that create generational wealth—not just a demanding job. Her commitment to preventing burnout among entrepreneurs has been recognized by prestigious outlets including Fast Company and NPR Marketplace.

A lifelong learner, Vanessa holds a B.S. in Management Science & Engineering from Stanford University, an academic foundation complemented by strategic leadership roles at Fortune 500 companies. This unique blend of academic rigor and real-world experience positions her as a valuable resource for owners looking to scale their success. When not speaking on stages, Vanessa Zamy serves as an Adjunct Professor focused on leadership development and burnout prevention in business ownership.

Through her engaging advising and training, Vanessa serves as a catalyst for sustainable success, equipping business owners with the actionable strategies to thrive without succumbing to pressure. She is more than a consultant; she is a mentor and advocate for building a successful, lasting legacy.

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 Mindset (WBC 12/11/25)

Women Mean Business NETWORKING MIXER

Title: Next Level Mindset               Date: December 11              Location: The The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant

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.