Understanding Financial Statements Live Webinar

Understanding the financial performance of your small business is fundamental to knowing if the business is meeting your financial goals or if changes are needed in the way you do business. We’ll use realistic sample financial statements to illustrate the concepts we are discussing. Participants are also encouraged to bring their existing financial information to discuss or evaluate in class.

During the workshop, we’ll focus on the following:

  • Accounting systems – we’ll help you identify the benefits of timely and accurate financial information and how a system can be put in place.
  • Basic financial statements – we’ll identify the basic financial statements that are common to all businesses and what they mean.
  • Interpreting financial information – we’ll guide you through the process, including setting benchmarks for business performance.
  • Making key business decision – you’ll learn how to use financial information to make key business decisions such as when to hire additional employees, when to adjust pricing, or how to reduce excess costs.

In case you missed this event, you may view the Presentation at: Understanding Financial Statements Presentation

The Event Webinar may be viewed in English at: Understanding Financial Statements Webinar

En Espanol: Understanding Financial Statements Webinar En Espanol (Part 1)

Understanding Financial Statements Webinar En Espanol (Part 2)

QuickBooks Basics Live Webinar

One of the most important, yet frequently overlooked components for most business owners is recordkeeping. This introductory webinar walks participants through the ground level stages of “bookkeeping.”  During the webinar, we’ll focus on the following areas:

  • The effective use of an accounting system
  • How to set up your company in QuickBooks
  • Adding customers, vendors and employees to your records
  • How to produce accurate and timely reports to analyze your company’s performance and much more.

In case you missed this event, you may view the Presentation at: QuickBooks Basics Live Webinar

The Event Webinar may be viewed in English at: QuickBooks Basics Live Webinar (English)

En Espanol: QuickBooks Basics Live Webinar (En Espanol)

Basics of Financing Your Business Live Webinar

Access to capital is critical to many small businesses, yet most owners don’t understand how to determine what they qualify for, what money is available to them and the roadblocks they may face obtaining financing. This workshop was created to address these issues as well as inform business owners of what’s expected of them in obtaining capital.

During the workshop, we’ll focus on the following areas:

  • Financing options available to small businesses
  • What lenders look for
  • Matching the right financing program to your needs
  • How to prepare for a meeting with a lender
  • Identify issues that will “kill” your deal

Learn how to get your business bank ready in this workshop!

This workshop will have live Spanish interpretation available.

The Event Webinar may be viewed in English at: Basics of Financing Your Business (English)

En Espanol: Basics of Financing Your Business (En Espanol)

Writing a Business Plan Live Webinar

In this live webinar, you will learn that developing a business plan is one of the most important challenges you will face as an entrepreneur. The process of developing a good business plan requires an understanding and appreciation for the tools required to do it right. This workshop was developed to guide you through that process and give you a hands-on systematic way to develop an outline, investigate and evaluate the resources and create a draft of your own business plan.

In this workshop, we’ll show you how to:

  • Research and analyze the individual components needed for a business plan
  • Apply skills to create a business plan for different audiences, including investors and banks
  • Explain the purpose and future of your business in easy to understand terms
  • Describe your marketing, sales, and planning strategies and more

You’ll also learn about business assistance programs for Minority and Women Business Enterprises.

This workshop will have live Spanish interpretation available.

In case you missed this event, you may view the Presentation at: Writing a Business Plan Presentation

The Event Webinar may be viewed in English at: Writing a Business Plan Live Webinar (English)

En Espanol: Writing a Business Plan Live Webinar (En Espanol)

a-squared architecture

Small Business Spotlight
November 2024
Local Businesses Embrace Hudson County Project and
Development Based Internship Program

When the Hudson County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC) partnered with Hudson County Community College (HCCC), SRL Enterprises, and the Citizens Philanthropic Foundation to launch a new small business internship program, local businesses like a-squared architecture, owned by Alka Kustagi, AIA, were eager to join. This innovative program provides students with invaluable industry experience through collaborations with leaders like SRL Enterprises in real estate development. As a result, the program not only helps bridge students to promising career paths but also supports local businesses, allowing mentors like Alka, with over 27 years of industry experience, to guide the next generation of professionals.

Hudson County Executive Craig Guy praised the initiative and its partners, saying, “This paid internship initiative exemplifies Hudson County’s commitment to inclusive economic development and workforce readiness. SRL Enterprises planned, designed, and developed an outstanding internship program that has been instrumental in ensuring that we connect with and exceed our goals to engage small, women minority-owned businesses that are involved in landmark projects like the Honorable Frank J. Guarini Justice Complex. Through the support of HCEDC, HCCC, and dedicated partners like SRL, we’re providing real-world opportunities that empower our students and build a thriving, equitable business community.”

a-squared architecture: 40,000 sq. ft. new construction mixed-use project.

Located in Union City, formed in 2013, a-squared architecture is a commercial architecture and interior design firm specializing in multi-family, mixed-use, retail, restaurant, and office design. Projects range from new construction to renovations to tenant fit outs. Throughout her career, Alka has worked on projects in about forty states in the U.S. A-squared is known for its commitment to each project and follows a hands-on approach, offering a well-rounded architecture and interior design related experience to the interns. Alka saw Hudson County as both a place to grow her business and a community where her family could flourish, thanks to its proximity to Manhattan and the supportive local environment. “I moved to the U.S. in 2004 and settled in Hudson County in 2007. The opportunities and community support here are invaluable,” Alka shared.

As a small business owner and a mother, Alka was drawn to the internship program’s mission of preparing students for a competitive workforce. “I realize how hard it can be for young professionals to receive one-on-one mentoring.” One intern noted, “A major milestone in my development was learning to embrace feedback with an open mind. Alka’s guidance was encouraging, creating an environment where I felt comfortable asking questions.” Alka added, “I wanted to give back and be a resource in students’ lives. These internships don’t just serve the students; they also bring fresh perspectives to our business.”

(Pictured L-R): Elise White, SRL Enterprises, Workforce Program Director, Alka Kustagi, AIA, Owner, a-squared architecture, Mina Abdelmaseeh, HCCC Student Intern, Destiny Knowles, HCCC Student Intern

Through the internship program, Alka welcomed interns from diverse fields, all eager to explore the dynamic world of architecture. One intern, who originally had no background in architecture, worked alongside Alka in day-to-day project-related tasks, explored, and understood the various stages and aspects of the projects. The supportive work environment helped the intern to quickly adapt to the discipline and rigor of the field. For another intern with a background in marketing, Alka focused on practical skills like using CRM software and enhancing brand strategy. “She brought so much talent to the table, and I wanted to show her she was capable of success. The intern’s contributions helped strengthen a-squared architecture’s marketing and digital presence, making it possible to reach more clients and continue growing.

These interns not only gained technical knowledge but also soft skills crucial for their future careers. “They learned the importance of professionalism such as, how to communicate effectively, how to present themselves, and even simple but essential tasks like drafting emails,” Alka explained. “They left with skills they can carry into any industry.”

Michelle Richardson, HCEDC Executive Director, highlighted how the program represents Hudson County’s collaborative spirit. “This partnership exemplifies how collaboration can strengthen our community’s economic foundation. It provides businesses and students with the resources they need to grow,” she said.

HCEDC and its partners are building a resilient Hudson County economy by linking education, workforce development, and real-world training. For businesses like a-squared architecture, the program is more than an internship; it’s a chance to shape future leaders while fostering a thriving, inclusive community.

For more information about how the HCEDC can help grow your business,
Explore our website!

Explore:

a-squared architecture

Hudson County Community College

Hudson County Community College, in Partnership with
Hudson County Economic Development Corporation and Citizens Philanthropic Foundation, Launch New Small Business Internship Program

Initiative supports business growth and provides students with real-world experience.

 

Members of the Hudson County Community College-Hudson County Economic Development Corp. Internship Program Team, from left: (front row) Rosennies Feliz, HCEDC Marketing, Communications and Program Coordinator; Lori Margolin, HCCC Associate Vice President for Continuing Education and Workforce Development; Haya Almahdy, HCCC Student Intern; Alejandro Fuenmayor, Owner, Cavany Foods; Alka Kustagi, AIA, Owner, CHB Interiors; Dr. Christopher Reber, HCCC President; Michelle Richardson, HCEDC Executive Director; (back row) Elise White, SRL Enterprises, Workforce Program Director; Natalie Brown, HCCC Internship Coordinator; Mina Abdelmaseeh, HCCC Student Intern; and Destiny Knowles, HCCC Student Intern.

Hudson County Community College (HCCC) recently joined forces with the Hudson County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC) and the Citizens Philanthropic Foundation to launch an innovative small business internship program. This partnership will play a pivotal role in both supporting local businesses and real estate development while preparing the next generation of workforce leaders in Hudson County.

County Executive Craig Guy emphasized the importance of this collaboration, “The launch of this paid internship program to support the growth of local businesses and workforce development is a prime example of the forward-thinking opportunities Hudson County Government is committed to providing for our community. The HCCC-HCEDC partnership empowers students with valuable, real-world experience while helping dynamic local entrepreneurs gain the additional capacity they need to grow.”

Funded by a grant from the Citizens Philanthropic Foundation, the program offers paid internships for HCCC students, providing them with the opportunity to develop crucial professional skills in diverse industries. Talented interns are placed to advance projects in marketing, digital literacy, and social media strategy, with the goal to enhance commercial online and operational efficiency.

“At Citizens, we believe small businesses have the power to uplift communities and our team is committed to helping provide the resources and tools needed for them to succeed. We’re thrilled to help launch Hudson County Community College’s new small business internship program and look forward to seeing the impact that this new accessible career pipeline has for the businesses and future workforce of Hudson County,” said Danny Lee, Senior Vice President, District Sales Manager, Tri-State Metro at Citizens.

Additionally, through a collaboration with SRL Enterprises, a minority-owned compliance consulting firm, students gain valuable exposure to the real estate development sector. This partnership offers students hands-on experience with large-scale projects, including the Honorable Frank J. Guarini Justice Complex. This dynamic approach ensures that students not only apply their academic learning but also gain a deep understanding of the processes involved in major construction investments, giving them a well-rounded education that prepares them for a range of career opportunities.

Michelle Richardson, Executive Director of HCEDC, highlighted the significance of this program: “This partnership exemplifies how collaboration can strengthen our community’s economic ecosystem. The support from the Citizens Philanthropic Foundation allows us to provide our businesses and students with the resources they need to thrive.”

Dr. Christopher Reber, President of HCCC, also underscored the mutual benefits of the initiative: “The HCCC Internship Program is a win-win for everyone in Hudson County. It allows businesses to evaluate and train potential long-term employees, build a talent pipeline, and contribute to regional economic growth, all while providing students with the practical experience essential for their careers.”

This unique program integrating important and growing sectors is a testament to how government, higher education, workforce development, and community partnerships work together to create lasting opportunities for future generations. By fostering connections between students and local businesses, HCCC and its partners are building a stronger, more resilient Hudson County economy.

Counting Down to New Jersey’s 2022 Plastic Carryout Bag and Polystyrene Foam Ban Webinar

On February 22, 2022, the HCEDC joined the Bergen County Department of Economic Development, the Passaic County Division of Economic Development, the NJ Small Business Development Center at William Paterson University and the Greater Paterson Chamber of Commerce for a Webinar, “Counting Down to NJ’s 2022 Plastic Carryout Bag and Polystyrene Foam Ban.”

To view the video presentation by Anthony Martinez, NJBAC Small Business Advocate, follow one of the links below:

Plastic Bag Ban Law (In English)
Plastic Bag Ban Law (In Spanish) 

View the presentations from the NJ Plastic Carryout Bag Ban and Polystyrene Foam Ban Webinar from:

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

NJ Clean Communities Council 

Energy Incentives for the Business Community- Including Direct Install, Energy Assessments, Rebates and More Webinar

The HCEDC joined the Passaic County Division of Economic Development for a Live Webinar: Energy Incentives for the Business Community- Including Direct Install, Energy Assessments, Rebates and More on April 29th.

In Case You Missed It, You Can View the Webinar at: Energy Incentives for the Business Community- Including Direct Install, Energy Assessments, Rebates & More

You Can View the PSE&G Presentation at: Energy Savings for Every Business

You Can View the Donnelly Energy Presentation at: Energy Assessments and the Direct Install Process

Small Business Resiliency Network

The Hudson County Economic Development Corporation is proud be a part of the Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC)’s 20-organization cohort of the Small Business Resiliency Network. With the generous support of the Wells Fargo Foundation, the Small Business Resiliency Network would ensure that businesses are prepared for disasters and have adaptation strategies in place to strengthen the resilience of communities through the resilience of small businesses.

The HCEDC will offer a range of services in partnership with various organizations including educational webinars, as well as access to disaster recovery experts and Hudson County Community College interns.

To learn more about the Small Business Resiliency Network, contact Michelle Richardson, Executive Director or Rosennies Feliz, Program Coordinator at (201) 369-4370, ext. 2 or by e-mail at info@hudsonedc.org

For further information regarding the Wells Fargo Foundation/Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC) partnership, please visit: LISC Launches Pilot Program with Wells Fargo Grant to Help Small Businesses Build Disaster Resilience