Vacaville Launchpad 3rd Annual Entrepreneur Event

An Entrepreneurs Event for New & Existing Businesses

8:30 – 9:00 AM
Registration and Networking

9:00 – 9:30 AM
Welcome Remarks from Senator Christopher Cabaldon

9:30 – 10:30 AM
The State of Small Business with CalOSBA’s Clair Whitmer

10:30 – 11:30 AM: SKILLS SESSION 1

AI as Your Online Assistant — Using AI Competitively with Solano–Napa SBDC Lead Advisor Cathy Balach
Are you curious about all the AI buzz but not sure what it actually means for your business? In this fast-paced session we’ll cut through the hype and show everyday, budget-friendly ways that small businesses are already putting artificial intelligence to work—saving time, trimming costs, and giving customers an experience that keeps them coming back.

You’ll see live, real-world examples (no complex tech talk!) and leave knowing exactly which first steps make sense for your size, your team, and your goals.
Together we’ll explore the competitive edge that smart, practical AI can give you—whether that’s drafting marketing copy in minutes, forecasting inventory with surprising accuracy, or freeing up your schedule by automating repetitive admin tasks.

11:30 AM – 11:45 AM

Networking Break

11:45 AM – 12:45 PM: SKILLS SESSION 2

Marketing Made Simple: How to Stand Out in the Digital World with Solano–Napa SBDC Business Advisor Ed Troxell

In today’s fast-changing online world, small businesses need more than just a Facebook page to get noticed. In this engaging presentation, you’ll learn how to stand out in the digital space and discover the key elements of modern marketing, including social media, websites, video, and email marketing.

We’ll also explore how AI tools can help you save time and create better content without stretching your budget. You’ll leave with a clear, practical plan to grow your online visibility and attract more of the right customers.

12:45 – 1:30 PM
Lunch

1:30 – 2:30 PM: SKILLS SESSION 3

The Psychology of Persuasion: Small Language Shifts That Make Customers Say Yes Faster with Solano-Napa SBDC Advisor Nick Lightner
Language affects the success of your customer interactions. In this session, you’ll learn small, evidence-based persuasion techniques that help you guide and convert your customers faster without pressure. Transform your language from weak wording to stronger alternatives, clearly framing value, handling objections, and removing friction at every step. This session will arm you with tactical, high-impact language shifts that create immediate results.

2:30 – 2:45 PM
Networking Break

2:45 – 4:15 PM
Access to Capital Panel & Discussion with Solano–Napa SBDC Executive Director Michael Basayne
Learn from the experts about the best funding options for your business and get your questions answered.

4:15 – 5:30 PM
Networking Reception

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