Small Business Week
Small Business Week is a national celebration recognizing the role small businesses play in powering our economy, creating jobs and shaping our communities. Each year, the Birmingham Business Alliance honors the passion, innovation and resilience of entrepreneurs across our city and region.
Here in The Magic City, we bring that celebration to life with events that inspire, educate, and connect, spotlighting the local businesses that make Birmingham thrive. From insightful panels to meaningful networking, this week is all about supporting the big dreams behind every small business.
Join us Monday, May 5 through Thursday, May 8 for a series of engaging events designed to empower entrepreneurs, celebrate local success and build stronger business connections. Whether you're a small business owner or aspiring entrepreneur, there's something for you.
Explore the full schedule and make plans to be part of the magic!
Schedule of Events:
Grounds for Conversation
On Monday, May 5 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at House Eleven, the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) invites you to attend our Small Business Week Grounds for Conversation networking event. During this event, make new connections, enjoy a complimentary coffee on us and get connected with the BBA’s Small Business team, who are advocates for small business growth and success here in Birmingham.
Small Business Intensive
On Tuesday, May 6 from 5 to 7 p.m., the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) invites you to get a sneak peek into our exclusive Small Business Week event, our Small Business Intensive. Typically a private class with the group’s selected participants and weekly instructors, the session taking place during Small Business Week will be open for anyone to participate. Learn all about our Small Business Intensive programming, get a hint of invaluable business growth information and learn how you can apply for our next Small Business Intensive happening Aug. 5 through Oct. 21.
Optimize to Thrive Workshop
On Wednesday, May 7 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the BBA Auditorium, join the BBA for its Small Business Week “Optimize to Thrive” Workshop for an engaging session focused on practical strategies to streamline operations, boost efficiency and drive sustainable growth. Attendees will hear from Howell Consulting Services CEO and From Scratch Business Advisory Services Managing Partner Carnelle Howell. Whether you're a business owner or operations leader, this discussion will offer valuable insights on optimizing workflows, leveraging tools and technology and building systems that scale. RSVP now for this FREE workshop from the button below.
First Round
On Wednesday, May 7 from 5 to 7 p.m., join us for First Round, our bi-monthly networking event designed to help you become better connected with professionals throughout the Birmingham Region. To make this even better, the first round is on us!
BBA Luncheon
On Thursday, May 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., you’re invited to attend the Birmingham Business Alliance’s (BBA) Q2 Luncheon featuring a panel discussion for Small Business Week, including some of Birmingham’s top thought leaders in small business innovation, growth and success on the topic of “Building Birmingham: Journeys in Small Business Development.”
Panel:
- Central Alabama Redevelopment Alliance CEO Jeremy Duckworth
- City of Birmingham IEO Small Business Relationship Coordinator Dorothy "Dot" George
- City of Birmingham IEO Director Cornell Wesley
- Birmingham Business Resource Center Executive Director Bob Dickerson
- Alabama Small Business Development Center Network Finance Specialist & Business Advisor Suzanne Darden
Moderator: Birmingham Business Alliance Small Business Director Victor Brown
BBA Luncheons provide networking opportunities for our region's business community to engage in conversations that matter, make great connections with other business leaders and shape our region's thriving future. Be in the room and join us in these important conversations that help ignite strategies and tactics that drive our region forward.
We have open opportunities for sponsors. If interested, please email Meredith Drennen at mdrennen@birminghambusinessalliance.com for more information.
The BBA, in collaboration with the City of Birmingham's Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, are pleased to offer a selection of impactful events and opportunities for small businesses in the city of Birmingham and beyond. To view their list of events, visit the button below.
