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Tag: San Francisco SoMa/WBC

Start Capital Roundtable: For Established Businesses (WBC 05/27/25)

Are you at the stage where you’re ready to access capital and launch your business? Join us for our monthly session—Start Capital: Growth-Ready Business Roundtable.

This session is tailored for entrepreneurs who are prepared to launch or grow their business and ready to secure funding. If you’re still in the ideation stage or working to solidify your business plans, we encourage you to join when you’re ready for this critical step.

Securing capital can be challenging, especially with predatory loans and limited awareness of funding options. The right knowledge and guidance are critical. During this interactive session, you’ll have the opportunity to ask capital-related questions directly to Gwen Wright, an industry expert. Gwen will share her experiences, explore various funding options, and provide actionable advice specific to your business stage, helping you secure capital and fuel your growth.

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.

Not a Renaissance client? Please send us a text message to connect with you: (415) 894-9779

Facilitator: Gwendolyn Wright.

Gwendolyn Wright is the Managing Consultant of The Wright Consultants. Her mission is to start and grow businesses, increase entrepreneurs’ access to capital, and improve their financial acumen. She has extensive experience, in e-commerce, retail, and wholesale to manufacturing and distribution, consulting, and coaching small and medium size businesses for over twenty years. She has earned a reputation for having a contemporary management style, combining finance, marketing, and project management skills with entrepreneurial vision and discernment. She works well with companies in various stages of development from start-up to planned growth. She is excellent at creating sales and business development strategies. Sweet spots of focus include the food industry (restaurants and cafes, specialty retailers, and small craft foods and beverages) and the fashion industry (designers and tech, apparel, and accessories- especially jewelry). Clients are located nationwide from San Francisco to New York City. International projects include Italy, Cambodia, and Australia. Continuous market research and trend analysis have taken her around the globe to London, Hong Kong, Beijing, Panama, Johannesburg, Accra, Paris, and Tokyo. She was awarded the Small Business Finance Advocate of the Year Award by the Small Business Administration and participated in a congressional trade mission to South Africa and Ghana with Congresswoman Barbara Lee. Education includes Bachelor of Arts, Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio, Graduate study, Business Administration, Golden Gate University, San Francisco, Commercial Lending Graduate School, Corporate Banking Division, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma. She is one of the best small business consultants and coaches in the industry!

 


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.

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

Building a Successful Home-Based Business ( WBC 06/5/25 )

This 2 session program is designed for home-based business owners 1 to 3 years in business, who want to optimize their operations, marketing, and sales strategies for long-term growth without needing a physical storefront. It focuses on automation, remote sales, and operational efficiency, helping solopreneurs streamline their processes and scale their businesses from home.

Recommended Business Stage: Early-stage to established (1-3 years in business)

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Achieve a healthy work-life balance while boosting productivity as a home-based entrepreneur.
  • Master digital marketing strategies to attract and convert customers online.
  • Scale your business through outsourcing and automation, reducing manual effort.
  • Develop sustainable pricing models that support long-term business growth.

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.

Facilitator: Christina Hunt.

Christina Hunt is a trained marketing professional. She’s worked on creating product (Under Armour, USA), on managing a brand (Kit and Ace, UK), on overall marketing and sales strategy (BOOM Cycle, UK), on the media and communications strategy and execution (Carat GmbH, Germany), on Facebook and Instagram advertising strategy and execution (Facebook, USA), and many things in between. Now she takes her lessons and learnings to work with small-to-medium-sized businesses across the globe. Christina says, “Helping others like this is my greatest joy, it’s my way of making an impact. Something I felt I never did while working in the corporate world”.

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

How to write a Business Plan (WBC 05/27/25)

A business plan is a roadmap for your business, outlining your vision, strategy, and steps to success. Whether you’re launching a startup or growing an existing business, a well-structured plan helps you STAY ON TRACK, focused, make informed decisions, and secure funding. Ready to get started? Join this 2.5-hour session to understand how to write a strong business plan, covering key components, strategies, and best practices to set your business up for success!

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.

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.

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

Mind, Body & Business: Launch Your Beauty, Health & Wellness Brand (WBC 06/11/25 & 06/18/25)

This 2 session series is designed for wellness entrepreneurs who rely on trust and practical results to grow their business, including Fitness Studios and Trainers, Wellness Spaces, Salons, Alternative Health Practitioners, Spas & Barbershops, and Other Beauty Services

What You’ll Learn:

  • Structuring wellness programs for sustainable, long-term income
  • Client retention strategies rooted in personal transformation
  • Building a trusted wellness brand that fosters loyalty and credibility
  • Generating passive income through courses, retreats, and digital products

This class is open to all entrepreneurs.

Facilitator: Angel Choy

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

Marketing Bootcamp for Retail & Storefront Businesses (WBC 05/29/25)

This hands-on marketing bootcamp is designed to equip small retail and storefront business owners, at least 3 years in business, with effective strategies to boost sales and enhance brand awareness. You’ll learn how to create marketing campaigns that engage and retain both in-store and online customers, increase foot traffic, and build lasting customer relationships.

Recommended Business Stage: 3+ years in business with an existing storefront or plans to expand into a retail space.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Learn cost-effective digital and in-person marketing tactics to grow your customer base.
  • Build a unique brand identity and customer experience.
  • Master pricing strategies to increase customer acquisition and retention.

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.

Facilitator: Christina Hunt.

Christina Hunt is a trained marketing professional. She’s worked on creating product (Under Armour, USA), on managing a brand (Kit and Ace, UK), on overall marketing and sales strategy (BOOM Cycle, UK), on the media and communications strategy and execution (Carat GmbH, Germany), on Facebook and Instagram advertising strategy and execution (Facebook, USA), and many things in between. Now she takes her lessons and learnings to work with small-to-medium-sized businesses across the globe. Christina says, “Helping others like this is my greatest joy, it’s my way of making an impact. Something I felt I never did while working in the corporate world”.

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

Website Glow-Up: Quick Live Audit with Q&A (WBC 06/12/25)

These are open Group Office Hours for Small Business Owners with Existing Websites! Want to improve your website’s functionality and boost conversions? Our expert consultant will conduct a quick website audit, provide actionable recommendations for content updates to enhance branding and messaging, and suggest features or customer engagement tools to elevate your online presence.

This class is open to all entrepreneurs.

Facilitator: Alex Berea.

Dad | Speaker | Entrepreneur | Author Expert in digitalization for Small Businesses, including marketing, online advertising, social selling. 8y Serial entrepreneur. I have built and sold 5 companies in the languages, textile and training industries. 24y Sr. Consultant in digital transformation for manufacturing with Silicon Valley software companies. 4y. Digital content producer for training programs, social media outlets. Pymes con Wevos. Book. #1 in business in Amazon across LATAM. Hobbies: Calisthenics, gymnastics, parenting & cooking. Fluent in: English, Spanish, French, Italian & Portuguese.

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.*

 

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 Unit of Sale: The Building Block of Business

Posted on by chrisb

The unit of sale is one of the most crucial building blocks of any business. It forms the foundation of how you deliver your products or services to customers, and understanding it properly can help shape your entire business model. Whether you’re just starting or looking to optimize your sales strategy, it’s essential to take some time to clearly define your unit of sale.

What Is a Unit of Sale?

A unit of sale refers to the specific quantity or grouping of a product or service that you offer for purchase. For some businesses, defining this may seem straightforward, while for others, it can be more complex. For instance, if you’re selling clothing like jeans or jackets, it’s pretty easy to say that each individual item is a unit of sale. Similarly, for a product like dental floss, it could be a single packet of floss, or maybe even a package that includes floss and a special toothbrush as a set.

But sometimes, the unit of sale is not as clear-cut. Think about donuts: Are you selling them by the dozen or by the individual piece? The unit of sale can vary based on customer needs and your pricing model. A similar situation can arise with items like body oils, which might come in a small 2-ounce bottle or a larger 32-ounce version. While the product is essentially the same, the difference in packaging represents two different units of sale, and this affects the price and value perceived by your customers.

Why Defining Your Unit of Sale Matters

How you define your unit of sale can significantly impact your business in several ways. It affects your pricing strategy, customer perception, and even operational efficiency. Consider another example from the past: buying a leather bag might come with a matching wallet and clutch as part of a set, or you could choose to buy each piece individually. The unit of sale in this scenario directly affects how customers perceive the value of what they are buying—whether it’s a complete bundle or a single, premium product.

This concept extends to services as well. If you’re offering a service, your unit of sale might be per project, per hour, or even per deliverable. For example, a consulting business could sell its services in the form of a complete package that includes various assessments and reports, or the service could be sold based on hourly rates. The way you define and communicate your unit of sale will influence the customer experience and your overall profitability.

Examples of Units of Sale in Action

  • Food Products: A deli selling sausages may offer them individually or by the pound. Each option represents a different unit of sale, which comes with unique pricing and marketing strategies.

  • Clothing: As mentioned earlier, selling a pair of pants or a jacket might be straightforward, but sometimes units of sale can be bundled. Think of ‘buy one, get one’ offers or bundled deals where related items are packaged together.

  • Body Oil: The difference between a 2-ounce and a 32-ounce bottle isn’t just about quantity; it’s about convenience, customer need, and price point. Each unit appeals to a different customer segment.

How to Define Your Unit of Sale

Defining your unit of sale requires considering both your customer’s expectations and your operational logistics. Ask yourself:

  • What are my customers looking for? Do they want a larger quantity for better value or smaller, more manageable sizes?

  • How does the unit of sale align with my brand image? For high-end products, bundling items into a set might enhance perceived value.

  • What makes operational sense? Larger units might reduce packaging costs, while smaller units might offer more flexibility and reach a broader audience.

Conclusion

The unit of sale is a vital element of your business strategy that can shape how your products and services are received by customers. Defining it effectively involves balancing customer expectations, perceived value, and operational efficiency. Whether you’re selling donuts by the dozen or offering consulting services by the hour, taking the time to understand and establish your unit of sale can help ensure that your customers get exactly what they want, while your business remains efficient and profitable.

Next Steps to Optimize Your Business Model

Ready to dive deeper into optimizing your business model? Start by assessing your unit of sale today. Think about how you can align it with your customer’s needs and improve their experience. Small changes can lead to big improvements in pricing strategy, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, your bottom line.

If you’re looking for more tailored insights, be sure to watch the full series on our website by becoming a free member. You’ll gain access to exclusive content designed to help you refine your approach and make the most out of every sale!

Do you have a business idea? Discover our pre-recorded training programs (WBC 12/04/25)

Too Busy for Live Workshops? Don’t Let That Stop Your Entrepreneurial Dream!

Discover Renaissance’s On-Demand Series – Your One-Stop Shop for Essential Entrepreneur Training

You have big dreams of starting or growing your business, but your busy schedule makes it hard to attend live workshops. Whether you’re a small business owner, a working professional, or a busy parent or caregiver, finding time for live workshops can be a challenge.

We Understand, and Renaissance Has the Perfect Solution for You!

Our on-demand, online courses are crafted for anyone with a packed schedule. Learn at your own pace with expert guidance whenever and wherever you want. Developed with industry experts, these courses provide essential training to fit seamlessly into your life.

Why Our Courses Stand Out:

-Learn on Your Schedule: Access courses anytime, from anywhere.

-Set Timeframe: Stay accountable for timely completion.

-Engaging Content: Interactive quizzes help you improve and move forward.

-Certificate of Completion: Validate your hard work and build confidence with our certificate.

-Unlock Personalized Support: Stay on track and unlock access to 1 hour of individual counseling at the HALFWAY point and UPON COMPLETION.

Take the First Step to Your Business Success with Renaissance!

How to Enroll and Gain Access

-Attend a Live Informational Session:Understand course access procedures and completion timelines.

-Adhere To The Timeline: Complete the course within the provided timeframe

-Utilize Support: Access Office Hours and Business Advising Counseling Sessions for expert assistance.

Don’t let time constraints stop you. Enroll today and make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality with Renaissance!

Quick registration

Please note our programs and trainings are open to all entrepreneurs

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.*

 

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@

Renaissance Named Non-Profit of the Year at the 2024 Ebbie Awards

Posted on by chrisb

We’re proud to announce that Renaissance earned Non-Profit of the Year at the Ebbies, the Chamber’s annual awards. This honor affirms our commitment to supporting Bay Area small businesses and entrepreneurs.

For over 35 years, we’ve led efforts to provide resources, training, and support for entrepreneurs bringing ideas to life. This award honors the hard work of our clients, team, and partners. We are all united by the belief that business ownership should be within everyone’s reach.

The Ebbies Awards celebrate the resilience and contributions of San Francisco’s business community. We’re proud to stand with the city’s innovators and advocates, all committed to creating an opportunity-rich future.

You can find out more about the Ebbies and this year’s honorees on the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce’s website. For a look back at the night and the powerful stories shared, watch the event recap video here.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey. This award strengthens our passion for opening doors, removing barriers, and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our community forward.

To learn more about Renaissance programs and ongoing initiatives, visit our website and connect with us on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay updated on our work.

Here’s to the power of small businesses, the dreams they build, and the communities they transform.

City of San Francisco Declares Sharon Miller Day

Posted on by chrisb

This past September, Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center experienced a day filled with pride and gratitude as we honored our CEO, Sharon Miller, a leader who’s transformed lives, empowered entrepreneurs, and redefined what it means to lead a community organization. In a remarkable tribute, the City of San Francisco declared September 26th as “Sharon Miller Day,” a title that symbolizes over 25 years of Sharon’s commitment to uplifting small businesses and building strong community bonds. Sharon’s legacy at Renaissance isn’t just about her work; it’s about her presence—connecting with each client, showing up for local businesses, and leading by example.

This honor is made even more special by a heartfelt message from former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who took a moment to recognize Sharon’s impact. Watch Nancy Pelosi’s tribute here to witness this memorable acknowledgment of Sharon’s dedication to our mission.

Maribel Aguilar accepting an award at the Renaissance Small Business Big Impact Gala.
Maribel Aguilar accepting the Entrepreneur of the Year award.

A Celebration of Entrepreneurs and Community at Our Annual Event

The day’s celebrations flowed into our annual fundraising event, bringing together Bay Area leaders, funders, and champions of small business for a night of connection and celebration. The energy in the room was undeniable, as we shared stories of resilience and growth, showcasing the accomplishments of our three Entrepreneurs of the Year—each one embodying Renaissance’s spirit of creativity and perseverance. From community vendors to honorees, these small business owners showed us how they turn passion into progress, with Renaissance’s support to help fuel their dreams.

To get a closer look at the event’s highlights, watch our recap video here and experience the joy and pride of that night.

Tallios Coffee speaking to a customer at the Small Business Big Impact Gala
Tallio’s Coffee speaking to a customer at the Small Business Big Impact Gala

Honoring Local Entrepreneurs and Recognizing Their Impact

The heart of the event lay in honoring local entrepreneurs who’ve turned their challenges into successes. These honorees and vendors stand as powerful examples of how entrepreneurship not only transforms lives but strengthens our communities. Each one represents what’s possible with the support of programs like Start Smart, which helps individuals lay strong foundations in business training and financial literacy. Our work is about walking with them every step of the way, so they feel equipped and confident to build something that lasts.

For a full recap of the night, including photos, awardee stories, and introductions to the incredible vendors who joined us, visit our event page here.

Thank You for Supporting Renaissance’s Mission

We are endlessly grateful for every guest, donor, and supporter who joined us to celebrate. Each of you plays a part in making this work possible. Together, we’re building a future where small businesses have the strength to grow, serve, and become pillars within their neighborhoods. Thank you for being part of Renaissance’s journey.

Stay connected to discover more stories and see how we’re empowering entrepreneurs across San Francisco and beyond.