EVENTS
SAN FRANCISCO Small Business Week 2008
May 12 -17, 2008
For more information regarding National Small Business Week 2008, go to
www.sfsmallbusinessweek.com or contact the Project Manager, Louise Dawson,
at info@fivestarconsultants.net.
Flavors of San Francisco
“Flavors of San Francisco” marks the formal opening ceremonies for Small Business Week. This gala networking event is hosted by Mayor Gavin Newsom and takes place in San Francisco at City Hall. After opening remarks by the Mayor, the Small Business Administration presents the National Small Business Week Awards. These awards are bestowed upon individuals who demonstrate unparalleled personal commitment and dedication to the business community and the communities they serve. After the opening ceremonies, the restaurants of San Francisco take center stage and offer their favorite food and drink samplings. The venues that are invited to participate represent the city’s various neighborhoods and backgrounds and their diversity colors the ethnic palate for which San Francisco is famous. During the event, the city’s collaborative partners along with our sponsors, offer a free resource and networking event.
Seminars and Workshops
During Small Business week, the participating organizations pair with Small Business Week sponsors and host seminars throughout the city. The goal for these seminars is to provide information and support services to start-up and expanding businesses.
A sample of the seminars and workshops include:
- Start Your Own Business
- Financing Your Small Business
- Technology Series
- Restaurant Bootcamp
- Green Business
Networking Events
During Small Business Week, participating organizations along with our sponsors, host networking events in various neighborhoods throughout the city. The goal of these events is to encourage relationships and business opportunities. Last year, our networking events drew 4,500 participants. Several of the networking events are as follows:
- Restaurant Bootcamp Cocktail Reception and Service Provider Expo
- Small Business Green Business Networking Event
San Francisco Chamber of Commerce
After Hours Grand Expo
Each year, the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and Wells Fargo present a cornerstone signature event and opportunity for small and micro businesses to showcase their company's products and services in a diverse and grand-scale marketplace. The Grand Expo draws 150 exhibitors from small, mid-size and large companies that represent many San Francisco business industries.
Sidewalk Sales
Small Business Week auspiciously closes with our neighborhood sidewalk sales. The San Francisco Council of District Merchants Associations, along with their constituents, hosts sidewalk sales in various merchant corridors. The sidewalk sales aim to encourage visitors and residents to shop and spend their dollars and time in our diverse commercial corridors as well as attract businesses to become members of their local merchant association.
