This story was compiled from a press release with additional reporting by GOOD Morning Wilton.

After a survey of owners of small businesses in Wilton showed they wanted more professional development and resources, the Wilton Economic Development Commission (EDC) is actively promoting a series of free business courses and training events aimed at Wilton’s small business owners, workers and entrepreneurs.

Dubbed the “Skill-Building Summer Series,” the events — which tackle wide-ranging topics to help individuals enhance their business skills and launch or grow a business — are scheduled throughout the month of July and early August, with more events likely to be added. Some are conducted online, while others take place in libraries in nearby communities.

GOOD Morning Wilton spoke to EDC Vice Chair Tom Shimko, who clarified that the EDC is not hosting the events, but is supporting the series planned by Fairfield County SCORE, where he serves as co-chair, in close collaboration with the EDC.

SCORE is a nonprofit that provides free mentoring and workshops led by experienced business advisors, entrepreneurs and executives to help small businesses launch, grow and succeed.

Shimko explained that the findings from the EDC’s 2024 survey of Wilton business owners were instrumental in the push to plan the training events. He said many survey respondents reported they would benefit from more business education and training opportunities. He emphasized that Wilton’s small businesses include traditional brick-and-mortar operations as well as many home-based ventures.

“We heard them, through the EDC, and we understand what their needs are, and we’re responding,” Shimko said.

In addition to SCORE, the EDC is also closely collaborating with the Wilton Chamber of Commerce and Wilton Library.

“It’s really getting everyone on board with the [survey] information the EDC found and saying, ‘let’s reach the audience [with] what they want’,” he said.

“We know that [training] is of interest, and the EDC is going to amplify that, trying to get that word out in every way that we can,” Shimko continued, referring to the EDC’s social media push to promote the events. “It’s just part of saying, ‘hey, we’re here for everyone that’s in business within the town’.”

Shimko reported the events have already garnered hundreds of registrations.

Information about the specific events and registration links are provided below:

  • Introduction to Patents and Intellectual Property (online, July 9, 12 p.m.): This webinar will focus on Intellectual Property Rights with a special reference to patents. This course is designed for inventors, entrepreneurs, and those who would like to learn more about intellectual property patents. No knowledge of the patent system is required.
  • The Cost of Fraud — Not If, But When (online, July 16, 12 p.m.): Like businesses of any size, fraud should be a concern. Small business fraud will differ from larger organizations and should be addressed with its own considerations.
  • Show Me the Money — Financial Tools for Startup Success (Norwalk Library, July 17, 6 p.m.): This is a practical, “straight talk” seminar for pre-launch or early-stage entrepreneurs who want to understand the financial side of business, including key reports, budgeting, forecasting, and tracking success.
  • Business Planning and Business Growth Using SWOT Analysis (Fairfield Library, July 21, 6 p.m.): This workshop provides prospective business owners with the tools they need to create an effective business plan, using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis to help them be proactive instead of reactive.
  • Is Being a Virtual Assistant For You? (online, July 22, 12 p.m.): A Virtual Assistant provides administrative, technical, or creative assistance to a range of clients, usually from home. If you’ve been out of the workforce and want to get back in, or are in a corporate job and want more flexibility, variety, and a chance to help people every day, becoming a Virtual Assistant may be for you.
  • Intro to Entrepreneurship & SCORE (online, July 29, 12 p.m.): What it takes to start and grow a successful small business, from idea validation to business planning and funding basics. You will learn all about what SCORE does and how it supports small business in Fairfield County.
  • Business Opportunities in Farming – Getting Started (Easton Library, July 29, 6 p.m.): Successful farmers are not only good growers, but excellent business managers and marketers, too. Farmer networks can introduce you to innovative and best practices, and can shorten the learning curve for new farmers in Connecticut.
  • How to Optimize a Website Page for Search Engines Step by Step (online, Aug. 5, 12 p.m.): In this eye-opening webinar, you’ll unlock the keys to search engine success and learn how to transform your website into a magnet for your target audience. Whether you’re a business owner looking to boost sales, a marketer aiming to increase leads, or a web developer striving to create high-performing sites, this webinar is your ticket to SEO mastery.