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Tag: San Francisco SoMa/WBC

🖥️Joyful budgeting (part 1 of 4): Achieve your money goals this year

This introductory session teaches how to create a business budget that aligns with your values and goals. Learn practical money management skills combined with a positive mindset to reduce financial stress and build confidence.

Recommended next sessions: Forecast Your Financial Future and Understanding Your Numbers
Note: Log in 15 minutes early. No recordings will be provided.

Meet the Instructor: Marin Laukka

Marin Laukka is the author of Ready Enough and founder of Yes&, a financial literacy coaching company. Certified as a Life Coach, Budget Coach, and Yoga Instructor, she blends mindset and budgeting to help clients find joy and peace in managing money.

To Sign up for the Event:

  • Visit http://tiny.cc/renaissancewbc
  • Create a free account
  • Search for this webinar under “Learning” -> “Learning by Resource” -> “Events”
  • Register!

(Please DO NOT USE INCOGNITO MODE when creating your account or watching videos).

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

🖥️Understanding your numbers: How to read financial reports

This introductory session teaches how to read and interpret key accounting reports like profit & loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports. Learn how to use these insights to make smarter business decisions.

Recommended next sessions: 1:1 Review: Financial Projections and Better Taxes Next Year!
Note: Log in 15 minutes early. No recordings will be provided.

Meet the Instructor: Vexilla Konkobo

Vexilla Konkobo holds a B.A. in Accounting and a Master’s in Accountancy. With experience at Morgan Stanley and the IRS, she now helps small business owners—especially immigrants, women, and people of color—better understand their finances and grow confidently.

To Sign up for the Event:

  • Visit http://tiny.cc/renaissancewbc
  • Create a free account
  • Search for this webinar under “Learning” -> “Learning by Resource” -> “Events”
  • Register!

(Please DO NOT USE INCOGNITO MODE when creating your account or watching videos).

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

🖥️Mindset and mindfulness in entrepreneurship

This introductory session helps small business owners develop resilience and emotional balance using mindset and mindfulness techniques. Learn practical strategies to stay strong, make clear decisions, and navigate challenges with confidence.

Recommended next session: Mindful CEO
Note: Log in 15 minutes early. No recordings will be provided.

Meet the Instructor: Tiffany B.

Tiffany B. is a mindset strategist and serial entrepreneur who co-founded The LITE House, a community focused on intentional leadership. She equips entrepreneurs with tools for clarity, resilience, and sustainable success.

To Sign up for the Event:

  • Visit http://tiny.cc/renaissancewbc
  • Create a free account
  • Search for this webinar under “Learning” -> “Learning by Resource” -> “Events”
  • Register!

(Please DO NOT USE INCOGNITO MODE when creating your account or watching videos).

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

🖥️Brand building on a budget: Scaling your vision smartly

This intermediate session teaches how to create a memorable, purpose-driven brand without a big budget. Learn to find your niche, craft your story, and use affordable tools to stand out from day one.

Recommended next sessions: Joyful Budgeting and Building an Engaging Brand
Note: Log in 15 minutes early. No recordings will be provided.

Meet the Instructor: Asha

With 15+ years of experience, Asha empowers women-led businesses to build intentional brands that scale stress-free and create meaningful impact.

To Sign up for the Event:

  • Visit http://tiny.cc/renaissancewbc
  • Create a free account
  • Search for this webinar under “Learning” -> “Learning by Resource” -> “Events”
  • Register!

(Please DO NOT USE INCOGNITO MODE when creating your account or watching videos).

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

🖥️Tax Planning and Reporting Money Smart for Small Businesses (WBC 07/28/25)

The Tax Planning and Reporting for a Small Business module provides an overview of tax planning and reporting and is designed to help participants to understand how taxes can benefit and affect their business.

David Hincapie is a Lender Relations Specialist at the U.S. Small Business Administration’s San Francisco District Office. He has been with the SBA for seven years, supporting lenders and small businesses across the region.

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.

🖥️Strong Business Credit Money Smart for Small Businesses (WBC 07/21/25)

The Credit Reporting for a Small Business module provides an overview of credit reporting and is designed to help participants to understand how reporting their credit can benefit their business.

 

David Hincapie is a Lender Relations Specialist at the U.S. Small Business Administration’s San Francisco District Office. He has been with the SBA for seven years, supporting lenders and small businesses across the region.

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.

🖥️Avoiding the Fine Lines & Legal Wrinkles: Beauty & Wellness Marketing (Start Small Think Big Collab)

Calling all beauty and wellness entrepreneurs! Join Start Small Think Big and the legal experts at Morgan Lewis for a free, must-attend webinar on how to market your products safely and legally. Learn how to avoid misleading marketing claims, stay compliant with FTC and FDA regulations, and navigate today’s evolving legal landscape—from social media content to product labeling.

Whether you’re selling skincare, cosmetics, wellness products, or supplements, this session will help you protect your brand, avoid customer complaints, and steer clear of government enforcement actions. Walk away with practical tools to communicate clearly and confidently while staying compliant.

Perfect for cosmetic manufacturers, beauty founders, own-label estheticians, and anyone growing a product brand in this fast-moving space.

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.*

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: wbc@rencenter.org (415) 894-9779

 

 

🖥️NAVIGATE COMMERCIAL LEASES WITH CONFIDENCE (Start Small Think Big Collab)

Are you ready to lease your own brick-and-mortar space? Already have a space and need to know your rights? Join Start Small Think Big and Davis Polk & Wardwell for an in-depth webinar that breaks down the key terms, types, and negotiation strategies every entrepreneur needs to know before — and after — signing a lease. This session will empower you to make informed decisions about your commercial real estate agreements and avoid common pitfalls.

In this session, you’ll learn:

  • Lease Essentials:

    Understand the standard terms included in a commercial lease and how they impact your business.

  • Assess Financial Considerations and Lease Costs:

    Understand the costs and financial risks of leasing and learn about available protections.

  • Negotiation Insights:

    Identify which lease terms are negotiable, how to prioritize them, and what red flags to watch for.

  • Develop Exit Strategies:

    Compare different exit strategies, including assignment, subleasing, and lease buyouts.

Presenters

  • Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP

REGISTER NOW!

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.*

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: wbc@rencenter.org (415) 894-9779

🖥️Domina la Creación de Contenido en Redes Sociales – Serie de 2 Sesiones (WBC 07/28/25 -08/04/25))

¡Impulsa tu marca con contenido! Únete a nuestra serie de  2 sesiones de Creación de Contenido para Redes Sociales y aprende a planificar, crear y publicar contenido atractivo que conecte con tu audiencia e impulse tu negocio.

Nuestros servicios y programas están abiertos a todos los emprendedores. Todos los programas y servicios de Renaissance WBC/SOMA están disponibles para el público general sin discriminación.

Facilitadora: Adela Jaimes

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 este 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 mediante un acuerdo de cooperación con la Administración de Pequeñas Empresas de EEUU. Todas las opiniones, conclusiones o recomendaciones expresadas son las del autor o autores y no reflejan necesariamente el punto de vista de la SBA. Todos los programas de la SBA o programas copatrocinados se extienden al público sobre una base no discriminatoria. Se realizarán adaptaciones razonables para personas con discapacidad, si se solicitan, con al menos 2 semanas de antelación. Contacto: Women Business Center, wbc@rencenter.org, (415) 894-9779

Access to Capital Panel 2025 — Event Recap & Key Takeaways

Posted on by chrisb

Bringing the Funding Conversation to Life

Last week, our Renaissance Women’s Business Center teamed up with the San Francisco Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and packed Golden Gate University’s School of Law with more than a hundred Bay Area small business owners. Three lender-led panels, an open Q&A, and a buzzing networking break turned access to capital from theory into practice by connecting real business owners with real answers to help them grow.

"The energy in the room was inspiring. From the three dynamic panels featuring lending experts to the resource tables hosted by lenders, entrepreneurs left feeling more informed, empowered, and supported in navigating their funding options.”

Lucero DeLeon, WBC Program Director

Panel discussions were broken up into three back-to-back sessions so attendees could hear directly from every corner of the funding landscape:

  1. Community lenders explained how relationship-centred micro-loans can get a young business moving.

  2. CDFIs and mission-driven funds showed how social impact can strengthen an application, even when collateral is thin.

  3. Regional commercial banks outlined what they need to approve larger, lower-rate loans once revenues and records are solid.

Between sessions, attendees circulated through resource tables, swapped cards with lenders, and compared next steps with peers.

Panel discussion at Renaissance Access to Capital Event
Panel discussion at Access to Capital 2025

Four Lessons for Loan Readiness

For those who couldn’t attend, we’ve distilled much of the information shared into four key points every small business owner should hear.

  • Know your business and prove it!
    Before a lender even thinks about rates or terms, they ask themselves a simpler question:  A one-page business plan (or tight slide deck) should answer that in two minutes flat. Lay out the problem you solve, the audience that pays for it, the specific way money flows in, and the milestones you expect to hit next. When those pieces sit in one clear, skim-able document, a lender can trace the logic of your growth without flipping pages or decoding jargon, and that early clarity builds trust.

  • Lead with a precise request.
    “Some money for growth” seldom lands well because it forces the lender to guess at everything that matters. Open with a single sentence that states the exact dollar figure, how you will deploy each tranche, and the timeline for paying it back. Specifics show discipline: you have run the numbers, matched the loan size to the project, and already mapped the path to repayment. That precision lets the lender line up the right product—term loan, line of credit, or micro-loan without a volley of follow-up questions.

  • Be documentation-ready. Even if you are pre-revenue.
    Missing paperwork stalls underwriting, but “documentation” doesn’t have to mean years of statements. If your business is still in its early stages, show what you do have: tidy bookkeeping exports, three-to-six months of business-bank activity, any signed invoices or purchase orders, solid (realistic) projections, plus your personal tax returns and a simple net-worth sheet. Save these alongside licenses, incorporation papers, and insurance as PDFs in one shared folder. When an underwriter asks for a follow-up item, you can respond in minutes, not days, and keep the momentum on your side.

  • Start the relationship long before the application.
    The easiest approvals often begin with a simple hello, long before any paperwork is involved. That doesn’t have to mean polished quarterly reports or endless coffee meetings. Drop into a free lender webinar, shake hands at a community fair, or send a short email every few months that says, “Here’s one win, one challenge, and one thing I’m working on next.” If you run a booth at a local market or host a soft-launch pop-up, invite the loan officer. Doing so helps turn your numbers into a story they can see. These low-lift touches move you from stranger to familiar face, so when you finally submit an application, it feels like a continuation of an ongoing conversation, not a cold call.

Looking for Your Next Step?

The day’s message was consistent: clarity beats complexity. Show lenders a solid plan, a specific ask, organized documents, and a relationship that started before deadline day, and you’ll walk into your next loan-readiness conversation on firmer ground. We’re grateful to everyone who joined us. Now, let’s turn these insights into a well-deserved “yes.”

Renaissance offers business-planning classes, one-to-one coaching, mentor matching, marketing and finance workshops, and pitch practice. Whether you’re polishing an idea, tightening operations, or preparing to raise capital, our programs give you the skills, network, and confidence to move forward.

Click here to get started today!