Are you a minority or woman-owned business owner? Are you looking to expand your opportunities for exposure? Do you want more opportunities to increase your cash flow? If you answered “YES” to these questions, this information session is for you! If your business is not certified, please join the City of Raleigh's MWBE Program, NC DOA/HUB Office, and the NC DOT/DBE Office to learn the requirements and process to apply for certification. Benefits of Certification as HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) & DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise): Increased exposure to business and procurement opportunities Addition of your business to the online directory Receive bid notices from all government organizations Provides opportunities for business development And, more… Who should apply? The business must be 51% or more owned and controlled by the following minority groups: Black Americans Hispanic Americans Pacific Asian Americans American Indians Females Disabled - A person with disability as defined in G.S. 168-1 or G.S. 168A-3 Disadvantaged - A person who is socially and economically disadvantaged as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 637

The City of Raleigh is partnering with Wayne Community College Small Business Center and the Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce to hold workshops for Spanish-speaking small business owners. When? Thursday, January 25 from 3-5 p.m. Where? Walnut Creek Wetland Center, 950 Peterson St There will be two workshop sessions. The first workshop will teach you how to turn your business idea into a reality. This session will cover entrepreneurship, from brainstorming concepts to registering your company, addressing legal requirements, planning your finances, and how to use market research. The second workshop will teach you how to create a business plan and effective marketing strategy through discussions and practical exercises. Learn to set achievable goals, craft a winning business model, and master marketing tools to boost your brand's presence and engage customers.