COA Small Business Center announces free February 2026 seminars, workshops

College of The Albemarle’s (COA) Small Business Center is pleased to announce a series of free seminars and workshops this month designed to support small business owners, entrepreneurs, and individuals interested in growing their businesses.

Do It Yourself (DIY) Food and Product Photography
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, 2-3 p.m. – Webinar

This webinar provides an introduction to creating high-quality food and product photography using accessible tools and techniques. Topics include lighting, backgrounds, composition, framing, and the use of light boxes. Participants will learn practical strategies to improve visual content for marketing and online sales.

Register at:  www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=150460017

Idea to Impact
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, 12-1 p.m. – Webinar

This session guides participants through the process of developing a business idea into a viable product or service. Attendees will learn foundational steps for evaluating ideas, creating value, and building toward sustainable impact.

Register at: www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=150460025

Video Marketing Sells: An Intro to Video Marketing
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, 2-3 p.m. – Webinar

This webinar introduces the fundamentals of video marketing for small businesses. Topics include why video is effective, key platforms to consider, and practical steps for getting started using minimal equipment and budget.

Register at: www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=150460018

Mastering the Facebook Algorithm
Thursday, Feb 5, 2026, 2-3 p.m. – Webinar

Participants will learn how the Facebook algorithm works and how content strategy can improve organic reach and engagement. The session focuses on best practices for creating content that aligns with platform expectations and audience behavior.

Register at: www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=150460019

Road Map: How to Start a Mobile Food Business
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, 2-4 p.m. – Webinar

This two-hour webinar provides an overview of the mobile food industry and the steps required to launch a mobile food business. Topics include startup costs, funding resources, equipment, permits and regulations, location considerations, and insights from experienced mobile food business owners.

Register at: www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=150460036  

Insurance for Your Small Business
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, 12-1 p.m. – Webinar

This session reviews common types of business insurance and discusses how proper coverage can help manage risk and protect business assets. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of which policies may be appropriate for their operations.

Register at: www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=150460038

Never Too Late: Starting a Small Business at 50+
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, 6-8 p.m. – Webinar

Designed for individuals age 50 and older, this seminar explores how to start a small business later in life. Topics include identifying business ideas, time management, low-cost startup strategies, funding options, and retirement and tax considerations.

This workshop focuses on strategies to help small business owners reduce insurance costs while maintaining appropriate coverage. Participants will learn practical approaches to managing premiums and minimizing liability risks.

Register at: www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=150460039