Events
This is our combined event calendar for the Business and Community events so you can best plan your activities in the central Connecticut community. We want you to know what a vibrant and active community looks like!
May 2025
WBDC: Join GPS - A Guide Plan for Success
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 through Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM–2:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: GPS: A Guide to Plan for Success is WBDC's comprehensive business plan writing course, designed for entrepreneurs with a single, concrete business idea who are looking for instruction, support, and expert advice while building a business plan. Each of the highly interactive 9 sessions focus on a critical aspect of business development, including marketing, sales, and finance. Included in the course is the Business Advisory Event, which provides an opportunity for you to pitch your business concept to an array of business professionals and receive customized feedback about how to move forward. Complete the Course and Apply for a Launch Pad Grant - Eligible GPS graduates who complete the course and furnish a completed business plan are invited to apply for the WBDC Launch Pad Grant. This offers newly established businesses the opportunity to receive a $2,500 grant for start-up costs. Applicants must complete an application and participate in a pitch competition. A panel of judges determines grant awardees. More details and eligibility requirements can be found here.
Contact Info: Application is required. Cost is $299 when accepted into the program. Click here to apply.
June 2025
Girls Inc. Summer Camp 2025
Monday, June 16, 2025 through Friday, August 15, 2025
Description: Girls Inc. will be holding their Summer Camp 2025 for students entering Kindergarten through Grade 6. Campers join grade-specific groups for age-appropriate games, themed activities, swim time, interactive play, and hands-on fun at specialty stations. Rising 7th & 8th graders dive into epic adventures across the state - beaches, hikes, amusements parks, museums, and more - 4 days a week. One day is spent at the center for swimming and reflecting on the week's journey. Our high school camp gives rising 9th through 12th graders hands-on leadership experience as they assist staff and support younger campers. Leaders-in-Training help with daily activities and transitions, and enjoy a weekly off-site field trip of their own. Our summer gymnastics classes (ages 5+) build strength and confidence in a supportive setting - plus we offer private lessons! Classes run at 3:30 pm (during PM Extended Care) for an easy transition from camp to gymnastics.
Location Info: 130 Lincoln St., Meriden, CT
Contact Info: Click here to register.
July 2025
WBDC: Financial Foundations - Business Loan Drop-In
Monday, July 7, 2025 at 1:00 PM–2:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: Do you have a question about applying for a business loan?Join Samantha Cross and Tanya Kelley, WBDC's Access To Capital Advisors, to get your questions answered and discover your business loan options. You can stay for the whole time or only a few minutes. We're here for you!
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
STEM Gems Summer Camp - Save the Date
Monday, July 7, 2025 through Friday, July 11, 2025 at 1:00 PM–3:00 PM
Description: Save the date for STEAM Train's STEM GEMS Summer Camp.
Contact Info: More information to come.
Job Fair Presented by Midstate Chamber & Workforce Alliance & Department of Labor
RSVP Now
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
At Meriden Public Library
Description: Recruiters and Employers: Register for your table today by contacting Angelica Lozano-Gomez via email, providing the following information:-Company name - Industry represented - Job Descriptions or Links to Job Postings - Maximum capacity of attendees (2)
There is NO cost and this includes table and chairs and lunch for all vendors. All industries are welcome!
For job seekers: this event is free and open to all who are looking for employment. We look forward to seeing you if you are looking for a new job or a change in careers! Last year there were over 300 attendees!
Location Info: 105 Miller Street, Meriden, CT 06451
WBDC: How to Create a Google Business Listing/Profile
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 12:00 PM–1:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: Ready to get your business in front of more customers?In just one hour, you'll learn how to easily set up and activate your Google Business Profile — a powerful (and free) tool that helps local customers find and choose your business online. Google Business Profile is a free, high-impact marketing tool that delivers real results—58% more in-store visits and 2.7× more customer trust.If you already have your Google Business Profile set up, check out our upcoming class for intermediate users to optimize your Profile performance and manage reviews.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
Government & Business Committee Meeting
RSVP Now
Friday, July 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM–3:00 PM
At Midstate Chamber of Commerce
Description: This Committee monitors local, state (in coordination with CBIA) and federal (in coordination with the U.S. Chamber) legislatve issues impacting businesses and considers programs to add value for chamber members.
Location Info: Chamber Conference Room-546 S Broad Str, Suite 2C, Meriden, CT 06450
Contact Info: Call the Midstate Chamber at 203.235.7901 or info@midstatechamber.com.
WBDC: Financial Foundations - QuickBooks Self-Employed
Monday, July 14, 2025 at 6:00 PM–7:15 PM
At Your Computer
Description: Join WBDC Business Advisor Zayed Rodriguez for a session on managing your business finances with QuickBooks Self-Employed. This mobile-friendly version of QuickBooks is perfect for small businesses with no employees that handle all income and expenses through business accounts or credit cards. The session will cover everything from setting up QuickBooks Self-Employed to managing cash flow, preparing for taxes, and more. If you're thinking about using QuickBooks to oversee your business finances, track income and expenses, or understand where your money is going, this class is for you!
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
HOLA Monthly Meeting
RSVP Now
Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at 3:30 PM–4:30 PM
At Midstate Chamber of Commerce - TBD
Description: HOLA (The Hispanic Outreach Leaders in Action) engages Hispanic businesses so that, through the Chamber, they can obtain exposure, growth, and involvement in the community.
Location Info: TBD
Contact Info: Call the Midstate Chamber at 203.235.7901 or info@midstatechamber.com.
CTSBDC - Understanding the Business Loan Process
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 12:00 PM–1:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: This will give you Basic knowledge to successfully apply for a loan and strengthen your business financial readiness. This webinar is designed to help small business owners navigate the loan application process with confidence. You will gain a clear understanding of what lenders look for, what documemts are required, and how to prepare your business financials to improve your chances of approval. Speaker will be Scott Arnold, CTSBDC Business Advisor.
Contact Info: Click here for more information and to register.
WBDC: Realistic Goal Setting for Business Growth
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 1:00 PM–2:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: Setting the right goals and executing them can get you on track and ignite your business growth. Seems simple, but why is it so hard?In this class, you'll learn the tools and strategies you need to stop running in a million different directions and focus on the work that drives your business forward. Join WBDC Business Advisor Joy Braddock to take control of your business and make it this your most productive year yet!Learn how to:• Assess your business to discover the goals that will truly support your mission and bottom line• Create action plans that prioritize, measure and break goals down into achievable steps• Implement realistic goal tracking to keep yourself accountable• Improve focus, eliminate distractions and maintain a state of flow to complete deep work• Get more done in less time and bring balance back to your life
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
WBDC: Financial Foundations - Let's Tune Up Your Business Finances
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 5:30 PM–7:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: Do you know how well your business has been performing this year? Peek under the hood of your business with WBDC Business Advisor Tanya Kelley as she reviews strategies to help gauge the health of your business and focus on reaching your financial business goals for the new year.This class is designed for business owners operating for at least one year, that have the following financial reports: 1. 2024 Balance Sheet2. 2024 Income Statement3. 2024 Budget to Actuals Report (Optional)If you have only one of these documents, such as your Income Statement, we still encourage you to attend.If you have questions surrounding how to generate any of these financials, we encourage you to contact us to get started with a Business Advisor instead.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
WBDC: Exploring Entrepreneurship - Are you Ready to Start a Business?
Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM–11:00 AM
At Your Computer
Description: Thinking about starting a business but not sure where to begin?This practical class will help you explore if entrepreneurship is right for you, understand what makes a business idea work, and walk through key decisions before you launch. Perfect for anyone with a spark of an idea and a desire to turn it into something real.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
WBDC Orientation
Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 1:00 PM–2:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: New to the Women's Business Development Council (WBDC)?Have you used our services but want to know what else we can help with?Come learn about the resources we offer to small businesses – most of which are offered at no cost. Join WBDC's Laura Blake, Taylor Bergeron and Sonique Solis to find out how to get started. We have something for individuals at all stages of business – entrepreneurial and financial education services, grants, promotional and community-building opportunities, and much more! Whether you're thinking about starting a business, are looking to expand your business skills, or are ready to scale, WBDC can help drive your success in a tangible and accessible way.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
Meriden Twilight Concert Series presents: Laurel Canyon Band
Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 7:00 PM
At Meriden Green Amphitheater
Description: Meriden Twilight Concert Series presents: Laurel Canyon Band at the Meriden Green Amphitheater
Location Info: 77 State Street., Meriden, CT 06450
Contact Info: Call 203-494-5575 or email meridenconcerts@gmail.com
WBDC: QuickBooks Online Express (2-part series)
Monday, July 21, 2025 through Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 5:30 PM–7:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: This course is designed for small business owners who have used QuickBooks Online (QBO) within the last six months or have basic familiarity with the platform.In this hands-on refresher, you'll build confidence in navigating QBO and taking control of your business finances.Learn how to:• Record sales and receive payments• Categorize expenses accurately• Generate essential financial reports• Reconcile bank and credit card accountsPerfect for busy entrepreneurs ready to get organized and stay on top of their finances—now!You must attend both sessions. - July 21st & July 23rd, 2025.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
CBN Networking Group-Hamden, CT
Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 8:30 AM–9:30 AM
At Hamden Regional Chamber
Description: You're Invited: CBN Alliance OPEN Networking Group Meeting
Connect with fellow professionals through the Chamber Business Network CBN Alliance.
This is an open LEADS group that brings together members of the Midstate Chamber and Hamden Regional Chamber.This inclusive networking group welcomes all industries, and multiple representatives from the same field are encouraged to participate. It's a great opportunity to build relationships, share referrals, and grow your business network!
Meeting Schedule:
2nd Tuesday of each month at the Midstate Chamber (Meriden)
4th Tuesday at the Hamden Chamber (Hamden)
Join us and expand your reach through meaningful connections!
Location Info: 3074 Whitney Ave., Hamden, CT 06518
Contact Info: For RSVP contact:
WBDC: Crafting a Strong Brand Name
Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 10:00 AM–11:30 AM
At Your Computer
Description: Choosing the right brand name is a crucial step toward your business's long-term success—and one of the most challenging.In this class, we'll walk through the essential steps for developing a brand name that's not only relevant to your business but also distinctive and memorable. Whether you're starting from scratch or refining an idea, you'll gain practical tools to build a name that stands out.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
Membership and Ambassador Committee Meeting
RSVP Now
Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 8:30 AM–9:30 AM
At Midstate Chamber of Commerce
Description: The Membership andAmbassador Committee will be holding their monthly meeting. The group provides outreach to prospective and active members and any member of the Chamber may join the committee if they are interested in helping the Chamber grow and retain members, while promoting their business as well.
Location Info: 546 So. Broad St., Meriden, CT
Contact Info: info@midstatechamber.com
Castle Craig Players- Little Women the Musical
Friday, July 25, 2025 through Sunday, August 10, 2025
Description: Seats are selling fast! Get yours today! Presented cabaret style with table seating! Patrons are inivted to BYO food and beverages!
The winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, told by Duncan Sheik and Steven Slater through what Entertainment Weekly called, "the most gorgeous Broadway score this decade," Spring Awakening explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood with a poignancy and passion that is illuminating and unforgettable. The landmark musical is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock and roll that is exhilarating audiences across the nation like no other musical in years!
Location Info: 59 West Main Street, Meriden, CT 06450
Contact Info: Click here for ticket information.