Small Business Series Returns to Central Library on September 8
The Indianapolis Public Library invites business owners and entrepreneurs to attend its 2025 Small Business Series of free, in-person workshops, along with a dedicated legal clinic, designed to support both seasoned business owners and those just starting out.
Launching on September 8 and running through September 30, this year’s series is more comprehensive than ever. Attendees can explore essential topics including financial statement analysis, business law, marketing strategies, and intellectual property protection. For the first time, two of the workshops will be presented in Spanish.
“We’re excited to host the Small Business Series for a fourth year,” said Kate Lietz, Public Services Librarian at The Indianapolis Public Library. “No matter where you are on your business journey, whether you're exploring a new idea or running an established venture, these sessions offer practical guidance and helpful resources. Our goal is to equip local entrepreneurs with knowledge and support.”
“Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs is articulated within our 2025-27 Strategic Plan. This workshop series is a direct reflection of our strategic commitment to providing access to the tools, knowledge, and resources that help business owners grow, thrive, and contribute to a stronger local economy,” said Gregory A, Hill, Sr., MLS, MSM, CEO of The Indianapolis Public Library.
The 2025 Small Business Series is supported by organizations including the Indianapolis Recorder, Latinos Indy, Indy Chamber, and the Indianapolis Bar Association.
All workshops will be held in the Clowes Auditorium at Central Library unless noted otherwise. Walk-ins are welcome, but we encourage guests to register. For a full schedule and to register online, click here.
2025 Small Business Series:
Date & Time: Monday, September 08, 6:00pm
Location: Central Library
Description: Presented by Alex Balbuena, Latinos Indy Media *This program will be presented in Spanish.
The Legal Aspects of Starting a Small Business
Date & Time: Tuesday, September 09, 6:00pm
Location: Central Library
Description: In this workshop you will be introduced to some of the essential legal aspects of starting a small business, such as how to choose a legal structure for your business. Presented by attorney Zachary Lange
Date & Time: Monday, September 15, 6 p.m.
Location: Central Library
Description: Presented by IK Sotomayor of JP The Geek and Indy Chamber’s Hispanic Business Council *This program will be presented in Spanish
Don’t Fear the Spreadsheet: Small Biz Setup, Financial Statements & Reporting Requirements
Date & Time: Tuesday, September 16, 6 p.m.
Location: Central Library
Description: This workshop will explore different types of financial statements, how to understand them, and how to use them to manage your business and make numbers-informed business decisions. The workshop will be presented by Hassan Khan, CPA.
Small Business and Intellectual Property Legal Clinic
Date & Time: Monday, September 22, 4 p.m.
Location: Central Library
Description: Do you have questions about the legal aspects of starting a business or intellectual property such as trademarks and patents?
No Registration Required.
Protecting Your Business: An Intellectual Property Masterclass for Entrepreneurs
Date & Time: Monday, September 22, 6 p.m.
Location: Central Library
Description: Learn how to safeguard your groundbreaking ideas with patents, protect confidential data with trade secrets, establish a strong brand with trademarks, and secure your creative works with copyrights. Presented by attorneys Matt Metzger and Garrett Hutchinson
Date & Time: Tuesday, September 23, 6 p.m.
Location: Central Library
Description: Presented by Agnes Theodossiou, Indy Chamber’s Business Ownership Initiative
Start Strong: Indiana Business Taxes
Date & Time: Monday, September 29, 6 p.m.
Location: Central Library
Description: We’ll cover some basic information about Indiana business taxes including how to register to collect and remit state taxes, an overview of common tax types that your business may deal with, and how to file and pay business taxes correctly.
Reach Your Target Customer: Creating a Marketing Plan for Your Business
Date & Time: Tuesday, September 30, 6 p.m.
Location: Online
Description: Learn practical strategies and actionable insights to effectively connect with your desired target audience, including how to develop a robust marketing plan tailored to your unique business objectives; leverage various marketing channels—both online and offline; and craft compelling messages. Register Here