Central Library proudly presents its annual small business series of free, in-person workshops for both established business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. This year’s series includes workshops delving into crucial topics such as creating a business plan, budgeting, certification for women- and minority-owned businesses, copyright and AI, and more. The lineup also includes a free headshot studio.
In addition to our hands-on workshops, we offer a curated selection of business books designed to inform, inspire, and guide you through every stage of your business journey. Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine and expand your existing enterprise, our resources will provide valuable insights and practical advice.
Join us at Central Library to gain expert knowledge, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and access tools that will help drive your business forward. We are dedicated to supporting your success and equipping you with valuable resources to help you thrive in today’s competitive business environment.
Feel free to walk in, but we encourage you to register.
Need help? Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text or email Ask-a-Librarian.
2026 Small Business Series
- Event: Data Axle for Business Owners
- Date & Time: Monday, September 14, 5:00pm
- Location: Central Library
- Description: Harness industry leading business and consumer data for your research or business needs with Data Axle Reference Solutions’ small business development tool – free to use with your library card.
- Register Here
- Event: Headshot Studio
- Date & Time: Monday, September 14, 5:30pm
- Location: Central Library
- Description: Drop in for a quick and free professional headshot with Kyle Helmond Photography. First come, first served – limited spaces available. Sign up on site in Central Library’s Atrium.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: The Small Business Systems Starter Kit: What to Set Up for Your Business Before Things Get Messy
- Date & Time: Tuesday, September 15, 6:00pm
- Location: Central Library
- Description: This session walks through the essential systems every small business should set up early such as email, scheduling, payments, documents, and more. Learn how to build simple, connected workflows before you’re forced to fix them under pressure.
- Register Here
- Event: Protecting Your Business: An Intellectual Property Masterclass for Entrepreneurs
- Date & Time: Monday, September 21, 6:00pm
- 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.
- Register Here
- Event: Build a Business That Works: Crafting Your Winning Business Plan
- Date & Time: Monday, September 28, 6:00pm
- Location: Central Library
- Description: Turn your business idea into a practical, actionable plan with SCORE’s proven business planning framework.
- Register Here
- Event: Budget Smarter, Not Harder
- Date & Time: Tuesday, September 29, 6:00pm
- Location: Central Library
- Description: Learn how to create and manage a practical budget that helps your small business make informed financial decisions.
- Register Here
- Event: Certification Workshop with the Office of Minority and Women Business Development
- Date & Time: Monday, October 05, 6:00pm
- Location: Central Library
- Description: This session will provide an overview of the City of Indianapolis’ Minority, Women, Veteran, and/or Disabled-Owned Business Enterprise program, including benefits and requirements of certification, the application process, and recertification.
- Register Here