Events and Training

Access event calendars, courses, and resources to help in your business endeavors!

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Virtual AI & Cybersecurity Workshop Series

TACOMA, Wash. – Join us January 26th from 11AM-2PM as the City of Tacoma, in partnership with HTM Consulting invites small businesses to participate in a virtual, instructor-led workshop series focused on the practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity. This series is designed to help businesses confidently adopt innovative AI tools while protecting their operations, data, and customers.

What you’ll learn:

  • Instructor-led learning sessions covering AI fundamentals and cybersecurity best practices
  • Real-world example workflows for AI-assisted threat detection
  • Tools and templates to support risk assessment and mitigation
  • Guidance on regulatory alignment, including AI governance, data privacy, and cybersecurity standards
  • Hands-on exercises applying AI to secure system design
  • Practical instruction on protecting business operations while implementing AI solutions

Following the initial workshop, participants will be invited to two follow-up virtual check-in sessions:

Ongoing Support & Peer Learning

Following the initial workshop, participants will be invited to two follow-up virtual check-in sessions.

  • 2/11 – 9-10:30AM
  • 2/26 – 9-10:30AM

These sessions will focus on:

  • Tracking progress and supporting real-world implementation
  • Addressing common challenges through group discussion
  • Peer learning, networking, and shared problem-solving
  • Highlighting participating businesses so attendees can promote and support one another

This interactive series creates a collaborative environment where businesses learn not only from the instructor, but from each other—building knowledge, confidence, and community while adopting emerging technologies securely.

✨ Free & Open to the Public 
🔗 Register now at: https://forms.office.com/g/gfg0Y5zv00?origin=lprLink
📩 Questions or accessibility needs? Contact Linda Cerna at [email protected] or (253) 453-9488

  Let’s build stronger businesses together — we hope to see you there!

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OMWBE Intro to Certification 101

Two-Part Certification Workshop Series:

Virtual OMWBE 101

February 4, 2026 from (9:00 AM to 10:00 AM)

The City of Tacoma’s Equity in Contracting (EIC) Program, in partnership with the Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE), invites you to a virtual, two-part workshop series focused on OMWBE certification led by OMWBE Analyst Resie Rogers.

Topics Include:

  • Determining if certification is the right fit for your business
    • Federal vs. State certification options and which may be best for you
    • Learn tips for successfully completing an application
    • Identify required documents and how to navigate the application process, including for newer businesses
    • Receive expert guidance on certification and the contracting opportunities it can unlock

101 Registration: https://forms.office.com/g/ZC7ufKZTDa?origin=lprLink

Hybrid OMWBE 201 Certification

February 12, 2026 (9:00 AM-11:00A M) 

Tacoma Municipal Building, Room 243, or virtually via Zoom

In-person attendance is strongly encouraged, as the goal of this session is for participants to start or complete their certification application during the class. To get the most out of the experience, we recommend beginning your application in advance and bringing any questions or challenges that may be preventing you from moving forward.

Please note: OMWBE 101 is not a prerequisite for attending this session.

Participants will have the opportunity to work directly on their OMWBE certification application and are encouraged to bring the following items:

  • Laptop/electronic device to start or complete the certification process
  • Capabilities statement if available – for networking opportunity

201 Registration: https://forms.office.com/g/8xr92h3SU2?origin=lprLink

Community members with questions or requests to receive information in an alternate format can contact Linda Cerna at [email protected] or (253) 453-9488

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Bonding Informational Class

A hybrid workshop and Q&A Session Hosted by the City of Tacoma’s Community and Economic Development Department

February 19, 2026

8AM – 9:30AM

The City of Tacoma’s Equity in Contracting (EIC) team is hosting a workshop with industry expert Kara Skinner on, Bonding Basics. We are excited to have the author of The Little Black Book, The Contractor ‘s Handbook for Surety available to our valued community to cover the following topics:

  • What is surety bonding
  • Surety bonds vs. Insurance
  • Major categories of Bonds
  • Public Works Contract Bonds
  • The 3 Cs of surety
  • Underwriting

Join us for an informational session intended to create a better understanding of the bonding process, surety requirements, or are seeking to increase your bonding capacity.

To register: https://forms.office.com/g/mH8quVxLyT?origin=lprLink

For questions about this workshop or to request information in an alternate format, contact Linda Cerna at [email protected] or (253) 453-9488.

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SCORE Workshops

Did you know the SCORE provides an ongoing series of free workshops for people seeking to start or grow a business?  Attend a workshop and learn from experienced executives how to position your business for success.

Check out the workshop calendar below:

https://www.score.org/seattle/local-workshops

 

 

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Organizational Resources

For your convenience, we have compiled a list of agencies offering small business training and development opportunities. Please explore the sites below to see upcoming events:

Learn more about the Tacoma's business resources:

Contact the City
of Tacoma Team today

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