It’s never too late to start planning your tax strategies for the end of the year. Join us for an information-packed seminar to discuss 2012 year end. Covered: 2012 Tax Changes for Businesses & Individuals, Year-End Tax-Saving Strategies for Business & Individuals, Using Cost Segregation Studies and Like-Kind Exchanges for Tax Deferral, Choosing the Best Entity Structure for Tax Purposes. Presented by Shamus Brennan, CPA, Senior Tax Manager, Dennis Piper & Associates, P.C. Shamus has over 12 years of public accounting experience at both a Big 4 Firm as well as a large regional firm. 3 CPE Tax Credits.

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Thousands of business owners have attended this seminar to learn how to attract more prospects, turn "shoppers" into "customers", and increase their advertising response and ROI, and other secrets to improve the "bottom line" of their business. Now you too can discover how to work less and make more. This seminar will guide you to take immediate control of your profits and cash flow, multiply your number of customers and revenues, and how to systemize your business to provide you with long-term, passive income. Ken Sevick, Certified Business Coach at Action International, will teach business owners how to work ON their business, rather than just IN it.

This seminar is designed for every business and will take you through each step to climb the ladder of business growth and have a commercial, profitable enterprise that works without you. During this educational, motivational and entertaining two-hour seminar, you'll learn:

• What are the 6 Steps & how do you move your business to the top. 
• How to gain control of your time, team and money. 
• How to turn your marketing into an investment, not an expense. 
• How to multiply your customers, revenue and profits. 
• How to leverage team, systems, technology & marketing.
• How to recruit, motivate and retain a Winning Team of employees.

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 This is a three-part series that will focus on the accounting essentials for community service and other non-profit organizations. The series is targeted to anyone who is involved with handling the books in a community service organization - including, but not limited to, volunteer fire departments, social service organizations, youth leagues, churches and religious groups, and anyone involved in fundraising committees, where cash is a large part of the transactions, and is often very difficult to track. The goal of the series is to provide an overview of non-profit accounting procedures, and how it is different than other businesses, as well as to review the areas that may be problematic to non-profits, with a strong emphasis on ethics and how to avoid misappropriation of funds. Topics will include tax issues facing non-profits, bookkeeping basics, how to plan and track a budget, and more. Attendees will be introduced to the forms and permits that are required to be a non-profit. They will learn how a non-profit accounting system is different than other industries, how to meet the requirements and standards that are required to be a non-profit; where the fraud risks are, and how to avoid misappropriation of funds. Presenter, Dr. Charles Fazzi, is a Professor of Accounting and Director of the Masters Degree in Accountancy for the Saint Vincent College Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government. Co-Sponsored by the Latrobe Area Chamber of Commerce.

As traditional lending sources continue to tighten their credit standards, entrepreneurs are finding it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to secure much-needed capital. This Alternative Financing Forum brings together lending professionals from numerous non-profit, private sector, and government agencies dedicated to making capital available to grow business ventures. This forum will provide an overview of each organizations’ financing programs and lending preferences. Representatives will also be available to meet with you individually after lunch. The SBDC strongly encourages any small business seeking growth capital to attend. Co-sponsored by the Westmoreland Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ). Continental breakfast and lunch included. 5 CPE Other Credits.

 What is a business plan? Why do I need a business plan? What should I include in my business plan? What are the three main parts of a business plan? Whether you are planning a business startup or currently are in business and are looking to expand, this informative workshop will show you the importance of a business plan. A business plan is the roadmap to a successful on-going business. Learn the five major reasons for business planning, the three main parts of a business plan, the twelve sections in a business plan outline, as well as an overview of what is included in each section.

Concerned about computer security? If not, you should be! There’s more to security than just an anti-virus program. Join Joe Polk, Senior Technical Specialist with the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PennTAP), and learn about firewalls, anti-spyware, anti-spam, and other programs that you can use to defend yourself, your computer, and your identity.

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You have a website. Your site has visitors. How many visitors are there? What content are they looking at on your site? How are they looking at it? What keywords did they use to find it or similar sites? Where demographically are your visitors from? What does that mean for your business? This program is designed to provide you with the knowledge of how Google Analytics works and how you can use it to serve the needs of your business. The class is targeted toward web designers, web analysts, online marketers, and general business people who want to learn more about how their web site really works.

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 How we market has changed. Many people search for goods and services online. Will they find your business there? Join Joe Polk, Senior Technical Specialist with the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PennTAP), and learn how to set up a business website or improve an existing one. Learn about website development costs, website templates, how to find a web hosting service, how to do a “check-up” on your website, domain names, how to deal with business email, how to measure progress, how to hire a website designer, how to add a bit of pizzazz to your site, things that you can do that will kill your website, search engines, and more.

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 Marketing and promotion through social networking has greatly increased. Capitalize on this new surge of marketing techniques. Learn to effectively utilize online programs that will give your business visibility, including FaceBook, Twitter, Linked-In, and more.

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 Is your link #1 or #200 in a Global Search? Many people never view past the first couple of pages of a search. Learn how to be on one of those pages and increase your visibility through search engine results. Join Joe Polk, Senior Technical Specialist with the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PennTAP), and learn the importance of keywords, content, word placement, web layout, HTML tags and META tags - hidden information placed in a web page that is often used in search engines to classify content about your web page.

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 A fast paced opportunity to learn about current market trends, opportunities, export strategies, federal grants for building competitiveness, and global supply chain management. Presenters include Pennsylvania’s Authorized Trade Representatives from mainland China. Mr. Steven Zou, Director of the Beijing Office will provide an overview of China’s current market trends and opportunities. Mr. Jim Curtis, Executive Director of the Shanghai Office, will supply attendees with export strategies for China’s growing market sectors. Mr. Bruce Chiu, Associate of Cohen & Grigsby Law Firm, will present important information to assist companies in protecting their valuable property, and Project Manager of the Mid Atlantic Trade Adjustment Assistance Office, Mr. Todd Shevlin, will provide useful information on federal grants that may be used to upgrade a company’s global competitiveness. Keynote speaker, Mr. Jim Cebula, C.P.M., Director of Global Purchasing & Travel, Integrated Supply Chain and Logistics from Kennametal Inc. will speak about the vast number of factors companies need to be aware of when considering global supply chain management.

 Competing in a Global Marketplace – It’s Not Just for Big Business is a three-part series designed for management, marketing, and sales professionals. Session One will cover topics such as what globalization is and how it impacts your business. Speakers will discuss international market research and measuring market potential. The session will conclude with assisting attendees in determining whether or not exporting right for you. This event is co-sponsored by National City Bank, Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, and the U.S. Commercial Service.

 Mr. Jestyn Cooper of the United States Commercial Service, currently serving in our American Embassy located in London, England, will discuss the growing need for defense and safety and security products and services within the United Kingdom. This briefing will provide a unique opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge and insight on a sizeable, underserved market with considerable export potential. Topics will include procurement opportunities, budget for defense, and safety and security for the Olympics. This event is co-sponsored by the U.S. Commercial Service office in Pittsburgh.

 This workshop is designed for every business owner who is seeking to grow their business. Attendees will gain an understanding of basic market principles, and how to apply these principles to gain a competitive edge. They will learn what goes into a marketing plan, and how to use that plan as a working tool.

Topics include Market Planning - figuring out what your best strategy will be; the format of a marketing plan, and why it is important; a mission statement - what is it and why is it important; and planning your own marketing mix - how to add value to your marketing efforts and and how to separate yourself from your competition. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of what should be included in their marketing mix and how that can lead their company to success.

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 This free workshop provides the necessary information to anyone interested in doing business with government procurement in Pennsylvania. Topics will include: locating state contracting opportunities, how the state purchases goods and services, using state contracting to “grow” a small business, and state programs to help small businesses make use of contracting and subcontracting opportunities. The workshop will also cover certification of minority-owned and women-owned businesses. The owners of such businesses are especially urged to attend. This event is being co-sponsored by the Seton Hill University’s E-Magnify.

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 This program provides trade insights to various regions around the world. Topics covered include political and economic environments, best prospects for export, methods for selling US products and services, and leading sectors for US export and investment. In addition, business travel, culture, and trade events will be discussed. Leading countries from various regions will be presented in detail.

 This workshop will show you how to bid, sell, buy, and ship on eBay. Learn how to set up and get started on eBay, monitor your items, and complete a sale. Learn how to register on eBay and how to take an eBay listing from start to finish, including researching the item and listing it on eBay. Topics include how to set up and get started on eBay, how to prepare and customize a listing, safe trading features, how to do a search for completed listings, how to match completed listings, seller fees overview, tips on entering titles and descriptions, pricing considerations like reserves and fixed price format, pricing tips, PayPal, keys to successful shipping and shipping options, adding photos, setting starting price and duration, upgrading to a Sellers Account, and completing a sale. Presented by Kim Horrell of the US Postal Service’s Business Development Team. 3 CPE Other Credits.

 In today’s marketplace, where consumers are exceedingly cautious and much more savvy in choosing where to do business, it is increasingly important that every employee has strong customer service skills, and that every employee has an understanding of the impact that customer service has on the bottom line. Customer service plays a significant role in determining where consumer’s time and dollars will be spent. Customer service is also one of the least expensive ways of improving performance in any business, but continues to be one of the top consumer complaints. This highly interactive series is designed for anyone who communicates with customers and clients on a regular basis. Those who are not customer reps but who interact with customers are especially urged to attend. This series identifies why customer service plays such a critical role in the survival of your business. It shows you how to identify the areas that employees can improve upon and teaches you how to build customer service skills. Learn to break down a product/service into client or customer needs, to handle gender and generational differences, to make a good first impression, to handle complaints, and to diffuse an unhappy customer and turn that customer into a satisfied one. Learn to build and maximize good rapport, to earn customers’ trust, to build customer referrals, and to keep customers coming back. Participants will also realize how communication style plays an important role in customer service. They will see how body language, mannerisms, and appearance can enhance (or destroy) credibility, and learn to recognize their own behavior styles and the styles of their clients resulting in better communication and a happier customer. This class is interactive, insightful, and provides immediate solutions to improve performance. Walk in with specific problems – walk out with specific solutions. Presented by Business Builders LLC, a company well known for their innovative approach to today’s business challenges. Continental Breakfast Included. 9 CPE Other Credits

Both new and existing exporters are strongly encouraged to attend this event to learn how their business can take advantage of China's rapidly growing market economy. China has become the world's fastest-growing large economy, with a growth rate of approximately 9 percent each year for more than 25 years. This briefing is designed to help local companies proactively target and develop the Chinese market. Exploring Business Opportunities in China, co-sponsored by the Southwestern PA Commission and the U.S. Commercial Service, is a half-day seminar that will focus on China's growing market economy as well as the volume of Pennsylvania exports currently flowing into China. This seminar will address a variety of dynamic market opportunities. Additionally, the program will focus on extensive and wide-ranging export possibilities, helping your company to capitalize on the new entrepreneurial spirit and trade liberalization occurring in China.

What You Can Expect:
The Dean of St. Vincent's Business School, Dr. Gary Quinlivan, will provide the macro economic profile of China. Dr. Quinlivan was a Fulbright Scholar at Shandong University in the People's Republic of China from 1988 to 1989, and in 1997, Shandong University awarded him an honorary professorship. Currently, he is both a dean and a full professor of economics at St. Vincent College.

In addition, Dr. Alain de Sarran, U.S. Commercial Service Deputy Director for the Office of East Asia and the Pacific, will be providing his expertise. Dr. de Sarran joined the federal government as a Presidential Management Intern in 1981. He has since become an International Trade Specialist with his current country responsibilities to include China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan.

 Sourcing materials and products on a global basis is now commonplace. 97% of all exports are made by small to mid-size companies. This seminar will provide you with the information you need to determine if exporting is a viable option for your company. Topics include: Intro to Export Readiness, Export Mechanics & Logistics, and Launching Into Exporting. Continental breakfast included. 2 CPE Credits.

 Export Controls & Compliance Best Practices is a series of programs that offers you the opportunity to learn about exporting procedures in a group environment. All exporting companies must be in compliance with U.S. Export Regulation and Controls. This half-day program will combine lunch, presentations, and company sharing of best practices. Best practice discussions will present to you strategies and implementation methods that may improve your export procedures and benefit your company’s bottom line.

Session One on January 21 will cover: Getting on Board: Managing & Implementing Policy, Relaying the Message; Training Methods; Domestic and International Sales Partners; In-House Order Processing Procedures; Shipping Documentation and Recordkeeping.

 Two fast-paced days of international trade training to equip companies with the information they will need to plan, prepare, and execute their international strategic plans. Topics include: Market Entry Methods, Partner Selection, International Contracts, Preparing International Quotations, Shipping and Logistics, Export Finance, and Export Compliance.

 Industry experts from commercial lending will team with an array of economic development specialists to detail many of the funding solutions currently available to Pennsylvania firms. Topics will include determining your capital needs, loan package preparation, working with a banker, Pennsylvania’s Business financing programs overview, accessing credit and capital through the U.S. Business Administration, industry specific regional loan programs, and technology and innovation grant programs. Presentations will be from representatives of Enterprise Bank, US SBA, Progress Fund, CL Fund/CL504, Economic Growth Connection, Small Business Development Center, Innovation Works, and the SBIR.

 This is an informal workshop offered approximately every four weeks at locations throughout Westmoreland and Fayette Counties. It covers various topics such as personal issues of being an entrepreneur, financing a business, the business planning process, marketing, mechanics of starting a business, regulations governing a business, and other resources that may be of assistance. SBDC consultants present this program and are available to answer any questions about initiating a successful business.

First Step Workshops are co-sponsored by the State Senators Richard Kasunic, Sean Logan, Bob Regola, and Donald White; Penn State Fayette – The Eberly Campus, and the following Chambers of Commerce: Latrobe Area, Ligonier Valley, Laurel Highlands, Norwin, Strongland, and Westmoreland.

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 Check fraud losses equal $20 billion a year and are growing at an alarming rate of 25% per year. 9.9 million Americans have been victims of identity theft. Fraud Detection and Prevention: Protect Your Business! is a 1-day seminar that concentrates on identity theft and fraud detection and prevention. It also covers safe computing and how to protect valuable information as well as procedures & techniques that will protect your company. Learn how to protect your business from this growing threat that is reaching epidemic proportions. Continental breakfast, lunch, and materials included.

 The Small Business Development Center encourages you to attend Gaining Ground in an Economic Slowdown. Topics covered are: the state of the current economy’s impact on business, cost analysis, cash flow analysis, tips on reducing costs and increasing sales, consideration of new opportunities, new marketing strategies, and other resources available. Registration is required. Seating is limited so register soon.

 Hear from Government Agencies and Prime Contractors on how to do business with their organizations. You will have the opportunity to hear from, network with, and meet one-on-one with representatives from organizations such as the NAVICP (Naval Inventory Control Point)-Mechanicsburg, whose mission is to provide program and supply support to keep our Naval forces mission ready; EMD – a business unit of Curtiss-Wright Flow Control Company, a contractor to the US Navy; Bettis Laboratory, a Prime Contractor to the US Government; and the National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining, supporting the broad manufacturing and machining needs of the US Department of Defense and its suppliers.

 Learn about the ten countries that are expected to offer the best U.S. export opportunities over the next five to ten years. This day long seminar is designed to identify and provide information on the countries that are expected to have high growth rates, a reasonable business climate and offer significant export opportunities. Learn what products and services will be needed, best market entry methods, cultural considerations for doing business in these markets, and the challenges your company may need to address when entering these markets.

Who should attend?
Business Development Managers, Export Department Personnel, Sales, Customer Service, Engineers, Manufacturing Mangers, Supply Chain and Logistics Personnel, Human Resource Managers, Defense Contractors, and people involved in Export Finance matters.

 If you are planning to exit your business in the next three to five years, join us to learn more about the steps in valuing your business, preparing to sell your business, the role of outside professionals, and the sales process. Topics will include exit planning, maximizing value through selling, the role of an intermediary, how long selling a business takes, the steps of selling a business, and building a deal-savvy team. Presenter, Robert A. Markley, is the founder of five technology companies based in the Pittsburgh area. He sold the first two organizations in 1999 and the remaining three in 2004. Robert has been lecturing on Entrepreneurship and Information Systems at Saint Vincent College and volunteers at the Small Business Development Center.

 Expand your human resources knowledge at our seventh annual Human Resources Workshop – a popular and informative workshop designed for anyone involved in making human resource decisions. Those who have questions about HR issues, those new to handling HR issues, and those handling HR as a secondary role, are especially urged to attend. The session will include topics such as why HR issues effect businesses of all sizes; developing a Policy and Procedures Manual – what is it, when does a company need one, and what to include; Employment Laws, The Recruitment Process, Common Hiring Selection Issues, Wages and Salaries, How to Properly Document, Termination, Safety and Health Issues, Employee Benefits, and more. 3 CPE Other Credits

 A comprehensive program on current business strategies to help you succeed in India’s growing marketplace. India presents lucrative and diverse opportunities for U.S. exporters with the right products, services, and commitment. India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Key factors for doing business successfully in India will be discussed. Co-sponsored by the U.S. Commercial Service and Southwestern PA Commission.

 The first of three workshops that will focus on the different types of Intellectual Property and explore why IP rights are critical to the success of a business. A must for business owners, inventors, writers, non-IP attorneys, accountants, and more. ‘Patent Basics’ covers the basics of patent law, the legal rights associated with a patent, and the requirements to obtain a patent. It discusses the different types of patents and the prosecution process of acquiring one.

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 A patent is an intellectual property right granted by the Government of the United States of America to an inventor “to exclude others from making, using, or selling the invention throughout the United States or importing the invention into the United States.” Patent Basics will cover the different types of patents, how to obtain one, who is entitled to one, what the requirements are for something to be “patentable”, and the laws and legal rights behind a patent. Attendees will gain a better understanding of patents, while learning how to protect themselves from being exploited. See flyer for presenter information.

 Two fast-paced days geared to equip companies with the information they will need to plan, prepare, and execute their international strategic plans. Covered on day one is The Transaction Process: Quotations, INCO Terms, L/C’s, Shipping & Getting Paid, Avoiding Discrepancies, Required International Trade Documentation, and an Interactive Documentation Session; and Export Finance and Risk Mitigation: Export Working Capital Financing, Government-Guaranteed Export Working Capital Programs, Export Credit Insurance, Export Factoring, Forfaiting, Government Assisted Foreign Buyer Financing. Covered on day two is Market Entry and Development: Identification of Market Entry Methods, Selecting the Best Suited Business Partners (Sales Reps, Agents, Distributors, Partnerships), How to Make Your Partners Successful, Important Agreement and Contract Provisions; and Export Compliance: Introduction to Export Regulations, Key Regulatory Areas, Importance of Export Management, Establishing an Export Management System, Establishing Administrative Policies, and Screening Companies.

 A legal workshop that covers topics such as Selecting Legal Structures for Your Business, Intellectual Property, Employment Law for Small Business, Employers and Employees, and Contracts. Presenter, Scott E. Avolio, Esquire, will also teach attendees information concerning how to plan for the eventual retirement and/or death of a shareholder/partner. The seminar will conclude with a question and answer period, where he can focus on any concerns regarding legal issues facing the attendees’ own small businesses.

This program will cover the basics of identifying HS #’s, things that you need to consider as you develop your international pricing model, INCO-Terms, brief overview of UCP 600, how to avoid customer misunderstandings, and methods for avoiding Letter of Credit discrepancies. Information provided is geared toward new to export companies or personnel. Experienced international trade personnel that have not yet attended a session on the revised INCO Terms or UCP 600 should consider attending this program as well.
 

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 How do I know which software is best for my business? Do I need a server? Where do I get the software? How do I install it and get it to run properly? Is it true that free software can help me? How do I get the greatest return from my IT investment?

Making a good software decision is not an easy task, but an important one. If this crucial decision is your responsibility, then this program is a must attend for you. Our presenter, Ethix Systems, will address these questions and talk about other business challenges, such as data entry, software customization, licensing, database concerns, and how to avoid getting scammed by a software salesperson. Learn the pluses and minuses of different types of software, how to use the software that you have, what do to when your software doesn’t work, how to avoid needless data entry, and more. This program will show you how to get the greatest return from your IT investment by choosing the most effective and beneficial software for your company. 3 CPE Other Credits.

 Presenter Bruce Meyer is the owner of Bruce Meyer and Associates, and is a software and database expert since the early 80’s. Through this seminar, he will assist attendees to better understand and more accurately identify various kinds of computer threats that currently exist. Malware is ‘malicious software’ which includes Viruses, Trojans, Worms, Spyware, Ad-Ware & Hackers. This program will help you to better understand and more accurately identify these common computer threats. It will help you recognize Malware, spoofing, spam and scams, as well as cover security issues such as passwords, disaster recovery, and what you can do to plan ahead. Computer protection will be discusses in detail.

 How can your company prosper from Marcellus Shale?
With the renewed interest in the Marcellus Shale bed of natural gas, there is a lot of energy to be harnessed and a lot of economic activity to be generated—a great opportunity for Western Pennsylvania entrepreneurs to find success serving the energy industry. Join us to learn more about the opportunities of prospering from Marcellus Shale. One-on-one meetings also available. Presenters include: Pennsylvania Independent Oil & Gas Company, Danielle Boston, Director of Public Outreach; AWS/Pumpco, Mark Songer, VP & General Manager; Universal Well Services, Robert Garland, Senior Technical Advisor; Williams, Susan Oliver, Senior Communications Specialist; Richey Oilfield Co., Doug McWhorter, Chase Johnson; Patterson-UTI, Mike Unrein, Area Manager; Chesapeake, Stacey Brodak, Manager Corporate Development; XTO Energy, Ian Kephart, Operations Engineer; Range Resources, Jim Cannon, Public Relations Specialist.

Co-sponsored by: Westmoreland County Industrial Development Corporation, Economic Growth Connection of Westmoreland, Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc., PA Training Consultants, Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce, Indiana County Chamber of Commerce, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, County of Armstrong Department of Economic Development, Indiana County Office of Planning and Development, Armstrong County Industrial Development Council, Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board.

 This program shows you how to correctly classify products under NAFTA rules of origin criteria, helps you to understand the record keeping requirements to ensure compliance and to avoid penalties, and provides you the opportunity to have an expert review your NAFTA certificate and answer any specific questions regarding classification, completion of forms, and record keeping requirements.

 Designed for Pennsylvania manufacturers, exporters and service companies, this briefing will allow you to explore new market opportunities. Learn about the changing role of business in Central and Eastern Europe. Explore a variety of dynamic market sectors located in the Czech Republic and Hungary. Obtain valuable information on growing trade opportunities in Eastern Europe. Identify emerging products and services needed in these rapidly evolving markets.

 Paper and folders and mail! Oh my! If you do not remember what the top of your desk looks like, and you cannot find what you need when you need it, then this fun and interactive seminar is for you. We will demystify the organizing process and start you on your journey to an organized office. Topics will include learning the overall benefits of getting and staying organized, identifying steps in the organizing process, answering key questions to assess your needs, and examining internal and external causes of organizing problems. Attendees will also decipher how learning styles affect organizing solutions, explore solutions to common organizing challenges, and how to start an individualized action plan. Presenter, Jody Adams is a professional organizer and owner of In Its Place in Greensburg.

 This workshop, led by an OSHA compliance specialist, will give you an overview of what you need to know about OSHA’s recordkeeping requirements and general health and safety requirements. If you have questions regarding OSHA regulations, this is your opportunity to ask OSHA! Any business with one employee is potentially affected by OSHA regulations. Therefore business owners, managers, and employees should consider attending this seminar on how to protect their businesses. Topics will include preparing for an OSHA inspection, what OSHA inspectors look for, how to complete an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) forms 300, 301, and 300A, and which work-related injuries and illnesses are recordable. In addition, attendees will also gain insight on how to calculate days away from work or days transferred to another job, when to post the summary (300A) and how long to retain records, and requirements that OSHA frequently fines small businesses for. This seminar is co-sponsored by Saint Vincent College Small Business Development Center’s Environmental Management Assistance Program (EMAP) and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

 This program will be customized to answer questions specific to your business needs. A must for Manufacturers, Retailers, Contractors and Service Companies, PA Sales and Use Tax will help you understand what these taxes are, how to deal with them, and how to avoid penalties for not being in compliance. Learn what sales and use taxes are, and how the latest government enforcement on companies is affecting business today. Presented will be the differences between a sales tax and a use tax and when to pay each one, when you pay a Use Tax and when you don’t, how the location of purchases affects Use Tax, and what impact the taxes have on Internet purchases. Learn why a purchase made by a manufacturer is different from other industries and why manufacturers are not exempt on all purchases. A must attend for businesses of all industries and sizes.

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 This workshop is designed to help businesses understand how the budgetary process serves as a planning tool and a control system for business, how it provides a framework for judging performance, and how it allows management to more effectively manage costs. The seminar will cover how to prepare a pro-forma (budget) statement, and will discuss the components of pro-forma statements, including sales forecasting, estimating variable and fixed costs, determining costs of goods, break-even analysis, budget deviation analysis, rolling budgets, and how a budgeted balance sheet can be used as a predictor of capital needs.

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 Zofia Sobiepanek-Kukuryak, Commercial Specialist, from the U.S. Commercial Service in Warsaw, Poland will share valuable information on current trade and business opportunities in Poland. She will discuss general information (i.e. business practices, cultural differences) in Poland, the Poland economy, exporting to the region, and best prospects for U.S. business (Leading Sectors for U.S. Export & Industry Sector Specialization). One-on-one meetings may be pre-scheduled for companies who wish to discuss their particular product or service with Ms. Sobiepanek-Kukuryka. Appointments are limited, so please register early to secure a meeting time.

 This workshop is intended for individuals who are familiar with QuickBooks® and would like to expand their knowledge in generating and customizing financial reports, forms/templates and QuickBooks® letters. Topics covered include: Creating Quick Reports, Creating & Customizing Preset Reports, Saving Report Settings, Exporting Reports to Microsoft Excel, Creating Quick Insight Graphs, Generating a Budget in QuickBooks®, Customizing Templates, and Preparing Letters. Presented by Dennis Piper and Associates, a firm that has experience with working closely with small to mid-size companies to develop, train, and enhance accounting processes through this software. 3 CPE Accounting & Auditing Credits.

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 This workshop is intended for individuals who are familiar with QuickBooks® and have used it in the past, but would like to become more knowledgeable of its various capabilities. This seminar will provide resource materials and information that will advance your QuickBooks® skills and allow you to become skilled in the more complex aspects of this software. Topics include: Working with inventory, processing and accounting payroll, using estimates and time tracking, tracking and working with accounts payable, analyzing financial data, customizing forms and letters, tracking asset and liability accounts, prepare bank reconciliation, financial reports, and creating checks. Presented by Dennis Piper & Associates, a firm that has experience with working closely with small to mid-size companies to develop, train, and enhance accounting processes through this software.

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 This program is designed for those individuals and businesses that have recently purchased the accounting system, QuickBooks®, or for those who would just like to become more efficient in processing their day-to-day work. This seminar will provide resource material and information that will broaden your QuickBooks® skills and answer those questions that have been plaguing you since the start of your business. Presented by Dennis Piper & Associates, a firm that has experience with working closely with small to mid-size companies to develop, train, and enhance accounting processes through this software.

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 Is your store making money? QuickBooks® Point of Sale gives you the inventory and sales tools to help run your store more profitably, along with customer management features to keep customers coming back. This informative workshop will cover retailer challenges, inventory flow and core Point of Sale functions, setting up Inventory Items, making sales, buying merchandise, customizing Point of Sale, end of day procedures, integration with QuickBooks Financial software, multi-store exchanges, what’s new in Version 8.0 and an introduction to the web store, Storefront. Presented by Dennis Piper and Associates, a firm that has experience with working closely with small to mid-size companies to develop, train, and enhance accounting processes through this software. 3 CPE Accounting & Auditing Credits available.

 Many small businesses owners begin their businesses not knowing the types of taxes that they are responsible for. By the time they find out, some of them owe back-taxes, penalties, and interest that result in closing their business or even worse, having to declare bankruptcy. This presentation will help you learn how to avoid tax problems, and provide you with a model for maintaining good record keeping techniques. Topics will include business tax deductions, taxpayer services, taxpayer ID numbers, employee withholding, payroll tax requirements and withholding, sales tax responsibility, record keeping systems, accounting methods, as well as keeping business records. Presenter, Gary Breckley, is the owner of Gary W. Breckley and Associates in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. His company provides tax and financial planning to businesses and individuals. Mr. Breckley is also an adjunct Professor at Saint Vincent College's Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics, and Government instructing Advanced Federal Taxation.

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An action-packed workshop that will give you the tools you need to strategically plan for business success in 2012. You will walk away with: Energy, Vision, and Focus for 2012; the 6 Key Areas you need to plan; Strategies for improving your time management, sales, marketing, and team; and a simple yet effective structure for planning your business. Presenter, Ken Sevick, is a master coach and owner of ActionCOACH Business Coaching of Western PA. After 17 years as a successful executive with a major national retailer, Ken joined the ActionCOACH team in 2004. Since, he has coached business owners, CEO’s, and their teams in over 30 different industries helping them to achieve better results in profitability, time management, leadership, and team development.

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 Every year the government offers more than $2.5 billion in small business funding for technology and science innovations. The money is out there, but how will you access it? Join us for a special funding workshop and learn the nuts and bolts of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Learn how you can enable your business to expand its horizons by entering the multi-billion dollar federal funding arena, and discover which opportunities are best suited to your business or innovation. Topics include: Strategies to make your technology appealing, prequalification issues for potential participants, steps for applying for federal SBIR research, proposal writing tips to make your proposal stand out, trends in innovation, and an overview of participating federal agencies.

 You’ve heard of the Cloud, but what exactly is it and how can it help your organization? This seminar will give you a better understanding of what the ‘Cloud’ is, how it works, and how it can benefit your company. Gain insight into which cloud delivery model is best suited for your company needs whether that be public, private, or hybrid cloud. Learn which type of cloud solution your organization may want to explore and the key considerations you should evaluate when selecting a solution and service provider.

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 How will the Federal Healthcare Law Affect Your Business? Join us at the Small Business Healthcare Forum for answers. Presented by Representative Tim Krieger & Representative Mike Reese with special guests, Mr. Robert J. Rogalski, CEO of Excela Health; Mr. Sam Denisco, PA Chamber of Business and Industry; Ms. Jessi Herman, Associate with Cohen & Grigsby, PC; Mr. Jim Fawcett, Senior VP, Highmark. Sponsored by PNC Bank. Local financial representatives will also be in attendance to answer questions. Light refreshments will be provided. You must register by Friday, March 18. Seats are limited. No Fee.

 This action-packed one day conference is dedicated to providing winning strategies for small business success. Numerous topics of interest will be addressed throughout the day, all tailored to meet the needs of entrepreneurs at various phases of the business lifecycle. Specific sessions have been developed to benefit high growth ventures, mature businesses, family-owned businesses, new businesses, franchises, veteran-owned and women-owned businesses. Another highlight of the day will occur when local entrepreneurs share their valuable insights, experiences, and keys to success in a panel forum.

 This program is designed for those have a great product or service, but are not sure how to sell it. Those who do not consider themselves to be in sales, and those who may not have a sales background, but still have to “sell” themselves, their ideas, their recommendations, and their services, to their customers, are especially urged to attend. Presenter, Jim Gaffney, Managing Partner of Peak Performance Management in Pittsburgh, will illustrate how beliefs, behaviors, and tactics are directly linked to how well a person sells, and ultimately how successful a business will be. His interactive and entertaining workshop will demonstrate ways for participants to present themselves that will help increase sales, decrease price pressure, and bring in new customers. Participants will learn why “no” is okay, and how to take control without offending. They will also learn how to become more comfortable discussing money issues, and will develop other skills and knowledge that will help to expand and leverage relationships.

 Phytosanitation: What do you need to know about ISPM 15? Designed for companies who use wood pallets, crating, or any wood in the shipment of their products to foreign countries; as well as those companies that supply these materials to export shippers. Learn what ISPM 15 is, how it operates, and how it can affect your company.

 This program identifies and explains the different types of Intellectual Property Rights such as Patents, Trademarks, Copyrights, and Trade Secrets, and explores why IP rights are critical to the success of a business. Gain a better understanding of what IP rights are available, the scope of these rights, how they are exploited, and how they can be protected. Also covered are IP licensing, non-disclosure agreements, and non-compete agreements. A must for entrepreneurs, inventors, writers, attorneys, and accountants. 2 CPE Other Credits

 This course provides a foundation for reading the three key financial statements prepared by most corporations – the balance sheet (or financial condition), the income statement (or earnings statement, or profit and loss statement), and the statement of cash flows. The seminar will help you to understand the financial position of your company and how to monitor the performance of your company and make sound business decisions. Henniger Accounting Services will present this program. Martha Henninger, CPA, started her own firm in 1998. She has experience in audits, reviews and compilations of financial statements for both profit and non-profit organizations, tax preparation and planning, and computer training and support for accounting software. Coleen Scaffardi’s twenty plus years experience includes all phases of accounting from monthly write up work to payroll and tax planning and preparation.

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Improve your knowledge and your company’s performance. Success in International Trade is often difficult to implement and even more challenging to sustain. Global growth practitioners from some of the world’s leading multi-nationals will be sharing their strategies for success, best practices and personal experiences during this amazing, one-of-a-kind learning opportunity. This two-day conference is essential for those needing to: 

 

• Identify New Market Opportunities  
• Implement Market Development Strategies  
• Comply with U.S. Export Controls & Regulations  
• Reduce Financial Risk Associated with Exports  
• Improve Global Implementation & Procedures  
• Share Best Practices  

Presenters include representatives from Alcoa, Baker Hughes, Bayer, Cohen & Grigsby, Compliance Assurance LLC, Fifth Third Bank, Kennametal, PPG, U.S. Steel, Westinghouse, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

 

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 This seminar provides an overview of compliance topics for U.S. exporters, E-Commerce, legal considerations, and shared import/export responsibilities. Also addressed are agent and distributor agreements, international contract provisions, negotiation strategies, and methods of ensuring payment on long-term ad progress payment contracts. Topics will include current topics in international trade laws for U.S. companies such as legal aspects of export compliance, e-commerce, deemed exports, foreign corrupt, and due diligence/successor liability. Attendees will gain insight in to informed compliance with import and export laws such as reasonable care and prior disclosure. Agent and distributor agreements will be discusses in regard to important contract provisions, as well as making your best case to get paid with emphasis on multiple stage contracts with progress payments and long-term contracts that involve substantial investments by U.S. exporters. Presenter, Timothy D. Charlesworth, Attorney at Law, is with Fitzpatrick Lentz and Bubba, P.C. Co-sponsored by the U.S. Commercial Service and Southwestern PA Commission.