B:Side University

Learning & Resources

Your go-to resource for practical, accessible education

Whether you’re a lender looking to strengthen your SBA 504 or SBA 7(a) knowledge, or a small business owner building the skills to manage and grow your business. Our free webinars break down complex topics into clear, actionable guidance, helping lenders serve their clients with confidence and helping entrepreneurs navigate everything from financing to daily operations. Together, we’re creating stronger pathways to responsible capital and supporting small businesses across Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona.

Small Business Webinar
Learning Opportunities

Upcoming Webinars

Browse upcoming classes focused on practical guidance for lenders and entrepreneurs.

Manufacturers often face challenges with financing equipment, scaling production, and managing cash flow. In this workshop, experts from B:Side University, U.S. Bank, and Manufacturer’s Edge will provide an overview of financing options—including SBA loans, equipment financing, and working capital solutions—along with operational support available to help businesses improve efficiency and grow.

Aprende los conceptos básicos de los estados financieros, incluyendo el balance general, estado de resultados y flujo de efectivo. Esta sesión te ayudará a interpretar la salud financiera de tu negocio y tomar decisiones informadas para su crecimiento.

An advanced workshop for business owners ready to leverage financial data, optimize tax strategy, and access growth capital—including SBA financing.

What You’ll Gain:

  • Deeper insight into financial performance metrics (EBITDA, cash flow, margins)
  • Strategies to align financials with growth and hiring decisions
  • Clear understanding of SBA lending programs (504 & 7(a)) and when to use them
  • Guidance on positioning your business to qualify for bank and SBA financing
  • Direct access to lenders, advisors, and capital partners

Learn how to:

  • Improve cash flow and reinvestment capacity,
  • Prepare your business for SBA and traditional financing approval
  • Understand what lenders look for in loan applications
  • Build a capital stack (SBA, lines of credit, and other funding sources)
  • Avoid common mistakes that delay or prevent funding
  • Connect with local small business support within your network to help you grow

Speakers:

  • Teresa Plaugher, CPA – ClearPath Advisors
  • Rocio Scott – U.S. Bank
  • Sandra Lopez – B:Side Capital
  • Brandon Eldridge – Pikes Peak SBDC
  • Shakanah Tedder – City of Colorado Springs
  • Nathaniel Shull – City of Fountain

Location:

El Pomar Foundation
Milton Proby Room
1661 Mesa Ave
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906
 

Project Storefront is a free small business workshop designed to equip Colorado Springs entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and direct access to partners needed to successfully purchase or lease commercial real estate. This workshop is a collaboration with the City of Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs Utilities, the commercial real estate community, and B:Side Capital.

Workshop Objectives

  • Educate entrepreneurs on the full commercial real estate process — from site selection to occupancy
  • Demystify permits, licenses, and city zoning requirements
  • Connect business owners to capital through the SBA 504 loan program and complementary financing tools
  • Introduce Colorado Springs Utilities programs for new commercial connections and energy efficiency
  • Build a trusted referral network of city, lending, and real estate partners

Who Should Attend?

  • Business owners considering purchasing commercial property
  • Entrepreneurs currently leasing who want to explore ownership
  • Startups evaluating their first commercial location
  • Any small business seeking capital, SBA loan guidance, or permit support

Previous sessions

Enjoying B:Side University? Send us your comments and suggest content for future sessions!

Resources for Rural Businesses
Leverage BSide Assist, Your AI-Powered Financial Assistant
Buying A Business as a First Time Buyer
Buying vs Leasing: Unlocking Commercial Real Estate for Small Businesses
Fundamentals of Investing
How to Build a Sellable Business
Right-Fit-Funding-How-where-and-when-to-apply-for-the-best-finance-product
Grant Writing
Keeping-Workers-Happy-and-Healthy
Tax Tips for Small Business Owners
The Perfect Client Fit
BSide-U-Fund-Website-Thumbnail
BSide-U-Fund-Website-Thumbnail-6
Building Business Credit
Accounting for Small Business
BSide Basics the Power of Saving
BSide Basics Managing Your Finances (1)
BSide Basics Building a Solid Credit History
Alternative Funding Sources
Ready, Set, Pitch Communicating Your Business Clearly
The Essentials of Business Insurance

Sesiones en Español

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Certificaciones para Pequeños Negocios
Recursos en Utah
Recursos Para Pequeños Negocios en Arizona
Entendiendo los Estados Financieros
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Opciones de Financiamiento para Pequeños Negocios