Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems can transform the way small businesses operate — but with so many platforms, features, and price points, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This Lunch & Learn brings clarity to the process by offering a candid, sales‑free conversation with experts who understand CRM tools from the inside out.
Adam Peterson of VipeCloud will break down what small businesses really need to know, including:
Key features to look for when evaluating CRM platforms
Common pitfalls and how to avoid costly mistakes
How to match a CRM to your business size, workflow, and growth goals
Best practices for implementation, adoption, and long‑term success
Real‑world insights from professionals who’ve helped businesses choose and use CRMs effectively
Whether you’re choosing your first CRM or considering a switch, this session will help you make confident, informed decisions that support your business’s growth.
SWaM Lab: Doing Business with the Commonwealth of Virginia
Becoming SWaM certified is just the first step in doing business with the Commonwealth. Each year the state buys goods and services totaling more than $8 billion. The Commonwealth of Virginia wants to do business with you and increase participation of small, women owned, and minority-owned businesses.
This workshop will cover the SWaM Program and certification/designation types, on-line application process, required documents needed to apply, and how to use the certification to do business with the Commonwealth. Bring your laptop to participate in this learning.
Speaker: Chris Ley, Business Services Manager, Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity
Do you need personalized, one-on-one assistance for your small business?
Office hours provide small business owners time to sit down with our team to receive personalized advice on operations, finance, and marketing and sales.
Browse the available dates below to register for an upcoming office hour. Times are available on Wednesdays, in 45-minute slots. If you don't see a time or location that fits your schedule, please contact Alberto Fernandez or Jenn Goldman.
Join One Million Cups for two engaging events this month.
1 Million Cups (1MC) is a national, licensed entrepreneur support program that provides community connections and a peer-to-peer forum in which people can help get their business problems solved. Twice a month on every 2nd and 4th Wednesday morning at 9:00 AM, entrepreneurs have an opportunity to present their business concept, startup or re-invented company to a diverse audience of advisors, business people, entrepreneurs and service providers. Presenters have 8 to 10 minutes to share their business and problem(s) they are having. Participants provide supportive feedback and help you solve your challenges.
As a small business owner, understanding how money comes into and out of your business is crucial to the long-term success and sustainability of your business. Throughout 2026, Loudoun Economic Development is offering a variety of classes in their Ashburn office, hosted by Cheryl Wiehn, that will walk you through the essential financial concepts every entrepreneur should know, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, e-commerce, financial reports and budgeting. You’ll learn how to interpret and leverage these tools to make informed decisions, avoid common financial pitfalls, and ensure the financial health of your business.
Learn the systems that keep your business running smoothly. In this class, we’ll cover the full money-in/money-out process—from sending invoices and collecting payments to recording expenses and paying bills. You’ll learn how to stay organized, get paid on time, and make sure nothing slips through the cracks. Take control of your business finances from the ground up. This class covers how
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