Let’s Grow Glendale: Small Business Summit

Small Business, Big Dreams: Strategies & Insights to Take Your Business to the Next Level.

Small businesses are the backbone of our community and the driving force behind our local economy.

The City’s Economic Development Division in partnership with the SBDC Los Angeles presents a series of events aimed at showcasing resources and opportunities that can help small businesses flourish in today’s competitive economic climate.

Don’t miss out on the chance to learn, grow, and connect with fellow business owners…let’s grow Glendale!

Summit Agenda

• 2 PM-3 PM- Registrant Check in

• 3 PM-3:30 PM Opening Remarks

• 3:45 PM- 4:30 PM Breakout Track 1

• 4:30 PM-4:45 PM Break

• 4:45 PM-5:30 PM Breakout Track 2

• 5:30 PM-7:30 PM Closing celebration

Breakout Track 1- 3:45 PM – 4:30 PM (Session A & B Concurrently)

Session A: Access to Capital: Strategies for Growth and Funding Success

Speakers: Brian Kennedy Jr., Lois P. Klavir, Jose J. Vega, moderated by Nate Jemison.

This panel will explore how small businesses can strategically manage cash flow, assess when borrowing makes sense, and position themselves as strong investment opportunities. Panelists will discuss key financial data, available credit options, and how to navigate funding sources such as loans and incentive programs. Attendees will gain practical insights on building capital readiness and leveraging resources to support sustainable growth and long-term success.

Session B: AI for Main Street: Your First 3 Steps to Smarter Business

Speaker: Jose Barrera

Artificial Intelligence can be a practical tool for small businesses when used in the right way. This session will break down what AI is, how it applies to everyday operations, and how to get started without overcomplicating the process. You’ll learn clear steps to get started: identify one key pain point, choose a user-friendly tool, and implement it while tracking results.

Break- 4:30 PM-4:45 PM

Breakout Track 2- 4:45 PM – 5:30 PM (Session A & B Concurrently)

Session A: People First Marketing: Connections that Convert

Speakers: Dylan Berry, Neville Taraporewalla, Ara Zada, Eddie Konialian, moderated by Silva Harapetian

In the age of AI, the brands that win are the ones that stay human. Moderated by Eddie Konialian, this panel brings together experts across media, content, and technology to share how to combine AI, storytelling, and strategic relationships to drive real results. Learn how to create authentic content, scale with AI, and turn attention into meaningful business growth.

Session B: Certified for Success: Procurement & Winning Government Contracts

Speaker: Nuha Nazy, Emilia Rogowska, and Jennifer Palacio

This session will help you understand not only how to do business with the City of Glendale, but also how to build a broader strategy for entering the government contracting marketplace at the city, county, state, federal, and utility levels.

Closing Celebration 5:30 PM-7:30 PM

Parking:

For your convenience, guest parking is available at the Embassy Suites for $10. A nearby parking garage is also available for $15 at 127 Burchett St., Glendale, CA 91203.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, assisted listening devices, sign language translation, and Braille transcripts are available upon request.

Contact the Economic Development Office at 818-548-2005 at least 72 hours (three business days) before the event for requests regarding sign language translation and Braille transcription services.

Assisted listening devices are available same day upon request. Additionally, if you require any foreign language interpretation, please contact the Economic Development Division at least 72 hours (three business days) before the event.