Ready, Set, Go!
2026-07-23 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-08-27 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual Meeting, MD, United States
Ready, Set, Go is designed for small businesses in the planning phase of building a company. Participants will learn the “nuts & bolts” of becoming an entrepreneur, from business planning to legal business entity formation. Additional information is shared with the participant on the SBDC, its services, what one can expect when entering the business world, the business plan, finance management, funding sources, marketing…a guide to beginning a successful future in a business world.

Thursday, June 25, 2025 https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/18425
Thursday, July 23, 2025 https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/18426
Thursday, August 27, 2025 https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/18427
Thursday, September 24, 2025 https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/18428
Thursday, October 22, 2025 https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/18429

*Workshop is Virtual* – Please click on the link next to the corresponding date or copy/paste link into browser address bar to register.

Lunch About Nothing - New Location!
2026-07-27 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-08-24 12:00 - 13:00 | Collision Course, 61 E. Main St., Westminster, 21157, United States
Lunch About Nothing is back!!!
Lunch About Nothing is held the 4th Monday of the month from 12-1 at Collision Course on East Main Street. It is open to all businesses, non profits and anyone who chooses to attend. There is nothing to join and visitors purchase their own lunch. Contact Zach Tomlin at ztomlin@tomlintech.com for more information or to get on the email list.

1 Million Cups Westminster
2026-07-29 09:00 - 10:00, 2026-08-12 09:00 - 10:00, 2026-08-26 09:00 - 10:00 | MAGIC, 36 W. Maint St, Westminster, 21157, United States
1 Million Cups Westminster is a program held for the community, by the community!
We are connected to a nationwide entrepreneurial organization which hosts weekly events that bring entrepreneurs in the Westminster community together over coffee and conversations. Coordinated by local business volunteers, these events are open to entrepreneurs and business/nonprofit owners of companies less than 5 years old.
We meet every other Wednesday @ 9:00 AM. Sign up for email info and reminders, and apply to present, by visiting https://www.1millioncups.com/westminster
Subscribe to the 1MC Westminster YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@1millioncupswestminster48
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1MCWestminster/

Click with Confidence
2026-07-29 12:00, 2026-08-05 12:00, 2026-08-12 12:00 | Carroll Technology and Innovation Council, 255 Clifton Blvd., Suite 215, Westminster, 21157, United States
Click with Confidence
Learn the essential skills for making your computer work for you. Over six weeks, train your awareness and practices for orienting yourself on digital platforms and performing foundational troubleshooting techniques.
Build confidence with device functions, file and photo management, internet navigation, email, online platforms, and troubleshooting common issues. Explore how to browse safely, evaluate information and communications, and recognize AI tools and scam attempts in everyday encounters. Practice using digital platforms to communicate, connect, and create while developing habits that keep you and your information secure. The goal is to make technology less frustrating and more supportive in daily life.
You can bring your own devices, and you will work with the devices we have in the Lab as well. Concepts will be introduced on Windows devices, and we will practice transferring them to Apple devices — so you’ll get some practice with two of the most popular operating systems. If you have a Chromebook, you can bring that too — same principles will transfer.
This is a 6-week course. Enroll for the full series, or attend individual classes and pay-as-you-go.

MD SBDC - Is AI Safe for My Business? A Guide to Using AI Without the Risk
2026-07-29 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual, MD, United States
You’ve started using AI, or you’re thinking about it, but one question keeps coming up: is this safe for my business? What happens to your data when you type it into ChatGPT or your AI platform of choice? Can your team use these tools without putting customer information at risk? In this session, you’ll get clear, practical answers without the tech jargon. You’ll learn what actually happens to your data when you use free AI tools, the five most common mistakes small businesses make with AI and how to avoid them, and how to set simple guardrails your team can follow, even if your “team” is just you. You’ll walk away with a guide to what data is safe to use with AI and a one-page AI use policy template you can put to work immediately. If you want help going further, SkyeStaq works with small and mid-sized business owners to deploy secure, business-grade AI connected to your operations. Presenter, Greg Chait; SkyeStaq Managing Partner, Strategy & Technology.
Please use following link to register: https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/18560

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce PM Connections
2026-07-30 16:00 - 18:00 | Piney Branch Golf Club, 5301 Trenton Mill Road, Upperco, 21155, United States
Fore! Get ready to tee up your networking game at our next PM Connections—hosted at the picturesque Piney Branch Golf Club!
Join us for an afternoon of connection, conversation, and a little friendly competition. Mingle with fellow professionals in a laid-back setting, enjoy light refreshments, and take your shot at glory in our mini putting contest—bragging rights (and maybe a prize) are on the line!
Whether you’re a seasoned pro at networking or just getting into the swing of things, this is the perfect opportunity to grow your circle and have a little fun while you’re at it.
Bring your business cards and your best putt!

CTIC Reunion at Island Green
2026-07-30 18:00 - 20:00 | Island Green Family Fun Center, 1199 South Pleasant Valley Rd., Westminster, MD, 21158, United States
The CTIC Reunion evening on the range for past & present members and supporters.
Price of ticket includes unlimited driving range balls and mini putt, plus drinks and a food spread of hummus and veggies, wreck it ranch fries, cheeseburger sliders, and pulled chicken sliders!

MD SBDC No-Cost & Low-Cost Training For Maryland Small Businesses
2026-08-01 07:00 - 17:00, 2026-09-01 07:00 - 17:00
The Maryland SBDC offers a comprehensive range of training courses and programs. Our online courses offer an excellent way to work training into your busy schedule when it’s most convenient for you.
SBDC training programs are designed with you in mind. By leveraging the resources of professionals in the community, we are able to offer a wide range of high-quality workshops, conferences, seminars, and courses at no cost, or a nominal fee in topics ranging from business plans to marketing to finances for your small business.
Please click on the following link to access the training calendar and choose your training to register.
https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce Breakfast at the Fair
2026-08-03 08:00 - 09:30 | Burns Hall at Carroll County Ag Center, 706 Agricultural Center Dr, Westminster, MD, 21157, United States
Join us for Breakfast at the Carroll County 4-H & FFA Fair. Meet some of the volunteers who organize the Fair and the kids who bring their projects to exhibit. After breakfast take a tour of the exhibits. The Fair began as a picnic on August 14, 1897 and attracts thousands of visitors annually to see the exhibits and entertainment.
Free parking available in the grass field off of Ag Center Dr. Enter fairgrounds through the Commercial Vendors Display area. NOTE: Wear comfortable shoes. NOTE: There is no parking available on the blacktop at the Cooperative Extension Office.

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce Orientation
2026-08-06 08:30 - 09:45, 2026-09-03 08:30 - 09:45 | Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, 9 East Main St., Westminster, MD, 21157-5006, United States
Description
The orientation is an in-depth look at the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce.
New member businesses and their representatives are welcome to attend.
Current member businesses and their representatives who need a refresher are also welcomed and encouraged to participate.
Not a member but interested in joining and want to learn more? You are welcome to come as well!
You will meet the Chamber staff and volunteers. Be sure to bring your business cards and begin building relationships with other new members.
Orientations take place on the FIRST THURSDAY EACH MONTH. Seating is limited, so please register online or call 410-848-9050 to RSVP.

MD SBDC - Using AI for Market Research and Competitor Intelligence
2026-08-11 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual, MD, United States
Join this session to learn how to research your business market, understand your competitors, find customer pain points in the industry, find gaps in what the competitor’s offerings are and discover underserved, niche markets. Attendees will see clearly the framework that’s only a few prompts long but will uncover data and information you can actually use to assist in your business growth. Presenter, Nancy McDonald; AI Automation Consultant, Tyto AI Consulting.
Please use following link to register: https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/18663

WOW - 2026 Leading Ladies Summit-REGISTRATION
2026-08-13 07:30 - 16:30 | Sunday Morning at Savannah’s, 111 S Springdale Avenue, New Windsor, MD, 21776
LADIES!!! This all-day event is open to ALL women! Engage in various fun and meaningful activities that elevate and inspire Y-O-U!
This experience is designed to empower, connect, and elevate women through inspiring conversations, interactive breakout sessions, wellness experiences, networking, live entertainment, and more.
I’m honored to be part of a gathering that brings together professional women committed to growth, leadership, collaboration, and lasting impact.
✨ HURRY!! Only 100 tickets are available, and registration is still open!
📍 August 13, 2026
🕢 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
📍 Sunday Morning at Savannah’s
111 S Springdale Rd, New Windsor, MD
🎟️ Register here:
https://wowwomenus.com/leading-ladies-summit-2026/
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your senses, get a bit dirty, and engage in the flora and fauna of a beautiful, scenic venue right here in Carroll County, Maryland!

Carroll Biz Challenge 2026
2026-08-13 17:00 - 21:00 | Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main Street, Westminster, MD, 21157, United States
The Carroll Biz Challenge, now in its 15th year, is the marquee event of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce and showcases local entrepreneurs. It gives them the exciting opportunity to pitch their new business ideas, make great connections, get loads of publicity, and compete serious prizes:
$10,000 cash Grand Prize (plus additional prizes worth thousands more)
$2,026 People’s Choice Award
$2,000 United Way of Central Maryland Changemaker Challenge Award

29 local entrepreneurs entered
Five will be chosen to pitch their ideas before a panel of judges and a live audience on August 13.
Only one will win the Grand Prize.
SEE IT LIVE!
Thursday, August 13
5:00 Happy Hour
6:00 The Live Finale
Carroll Arts Center
91 West Main Street, Westminster, MD
Get tickets: https://carrollbizchallenge.com/

CTIC Breakfast Club
2026-08-14 08:00 - 10:00 | JeannineBird Baking Company, 42 W. Main Street, Westminster, MD, 21157
Breakfast Club meets for coffee and conversation. Topics range from recent news to ideas members have been exploring on their own, and folks often bring a book, article, or product to share. Conversation regularly wanders into how technology is changing the way we live, work, and think—though it doesn’t always stay there, and that’s part of the fun. The group draws together voices from business, nonprofit, and government backgrounds, which keeps the discussion grounded but never quite predictable.

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce Commissioner Breakfast
2026-08-18 08:00 - 09:30 | Carroll County Public Library – Finksburg Branch, 2265 Old Westminster Pike, Finksburg, 21048, United States
Featuring Commissioner Kenneth Kiler- District 2
An opportunity to meet with Carroll County Commissioners, learn about current issues, strengthen community ties, share information and get answers to important questions.

SCBA Monthly Luncheon
2026-08-19 12:00 - 13:30 | Liberatores Ristorante, 6300 Georgetown Blvd, Eldersburg, 21784
The SCBA holds its monthly luncheon on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at 12 noon at Liberatore’s Ristorante 6300 Georgetown Blvd., Sykesville, MD. The luncheon is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. Please register in advance or pay an additional $3 at the door.

Cork & Compute: AI and Wine Tasting
2026-08-20 18:30 - 20:30 | JeannineBird Baking Company, 42 W. Main Street, Westminster, MD, 21157
Fruit notes and neural nets – oh my.
At Cork and Compute, you’ll taste your way through a curated flight of three wines, jot down your own flavor notes, then see what AI makes of them. Jeannie Bird Baking Co’s Bernie Vogel will weigh in live alongside the machine — a little Error, a little Terroir, and a lot of good conversation in between.
Wine might be one of the most human things we make — grown, crafted, and argued over purely for the pleasure of it. Bringing AI into that room raises a fair question: what does it actually add, and where does it just get in the way? By the end of the night, you’ll walk away with an AI-generated snapshot of your own palate — but the real takeaway is a reminder that having a preference, and trusting it, is something worth celebrating.
Charcuterie included. Bring a smart phone or request a device at registration.
This program is open to all. This event is presented in partnership with Jeannie Bird Baking Co. This program explores artificial intelligence tools and their practical, everyday applications. Content is presented neutrally, with a focus on foundational understanding rather than promotion of any specific product or platform.

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting Celebration
2026-08-21 15:00 - 16:00 | Long & Foster Real Estate Westminster, 410 Meadow Creek Drive, Suite 213, Westminster, 21158, United States
Join us as we celebrate the grand opening of Long & Foster Real Estate in Westminster! Enjoy light refreshments, giveaways, and an open house tour of their new space! Ribbon to be cut at 3:30pm. More information to come…

MD SBDC - Marketing On A Budget: Big Impact Without Big Spending
2026-08-24 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual, MD, United States
Effective marketing doesn’t require a large budget—just the right strategy. This session is designed for small business owners navigating real-world financial constraints while still aiming for meaningful growth. Participants will learn how to leverage free and low-cost marketing strategies, implement organic growth tactics that build visibility over time, and make smart decisions about where to invest versus where to save. The training also introduces practical, do-it-yourself tools to help elevate branding without added expense. Attendees will leave with actionable approaches to maximize impact while minimizing costs. Presenter, Cassandra Ferguson, CEO; Elevation Global Media Group, LLC.
Please use following link to register: https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/18583

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce AM Connections
2026-08-25 08:30 - 09:30 | Mission BBQ Westminster, 584 Jermor Lane, Westminster, 21157, United States
Are you a new member of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce? If so, you are invited to join us for an AM Coffee Connections networking event! Join us for an opportunity to meet and mingle with Chamber Ambassadors, Chamber staff and other Chamber Members.
AM Connections is a networking event specifically for members who are NEW to the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce (members joining within the last year). This event is designed to create instant connections for our new members by connecting them to chamber ambassadors and staff. New members are also encouraged to attend a Chamber Orientation for a comprehensive overview of Chamber membership benefits.

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce PM Connections
2026-08-27 16:00 - 18:00 | The Community Foundation of Carroll County, 255 Clifton Blvd. Suite 313, Westminster, 21157, United States
Red Carpet Connections
Meet the Class of 2026 We Are Carroll Awards winners and nominees!
Join us for Carroll County’s swankiest networking event. Rub elbows with the stars of the Community Foundation of Carroll County at our preview of the 2026 We Are Carroll Awards. Red Carpet Connections is the August 27 PM Connection with the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce. Walk the red carpet! Brave the paparazzi! Swag bags! Mingle with the stars of Community Foundation of Carroll County! Food and drinks! Enter to win a We Are Carroll Awards sponsorship-ticket package! We can’t wait to meet you!

Carroll County Agribusiness Breakfast
2026-09-03 08:00 - 09:00 | Baugher’s Restaurant, 289 West Main St, Westminster, MD, 21158, United States
Join us for our ongoing discussions about agriculture in Carroll County!
All are invited to join us. If interested, please RSVP to dhare@carrollcountymd.gov
Snow Policy: If Carroll County Public Schools are delayed or cancelled, the Agribusiness Breakfast is cancelled.
