ignite education

Education and networking opportunities

ignite sparked by BBB, Connecticut

BBB Foundation of Connecticut together with BBB, Connecticut is pleased to offer educational opportunities to engage business professionals together to hear industry professionals share their expertise on varying topics throughout the year.  

Attend an in person SPARK educational event at ignite

Join us for our in person SPARK events at our ignite space where you will experience monthly jolts of networking fueled with innovative speakers on relevant topics to foster knowledge, growth, and collaboration for the business community.  

Jake Sapia

Tuesday, May 19, 2026 | 8 AM - 9:30 AM

Presented by Jake Sapia, Tax-Out Advisor, WMGNA

You work hard for your money, learn how to keep more of it.

Most people only think about taxes when it’s time to file. But by then, many savings opportunities are already gone. Tax filing reports the past. Tax planning helps shape your future.

If you own a small or mid-sized business, smart decisions around your entity structure, retirement plan, deductions, and new 2026 tax opportunities could potentially save you thousands of dollars now and compound over your lifetime.

Join us to learn practical strategies that can help reduce one of your biggest expenses: taxes.

Frederick Welk

Monday, June 8, 2026 | 8 AM - 9:30 AM

Presented by Frederick Welk, Director of Business Development, Community Economic Development Fund (CEDF)

Have a great business idea but not sure how to turn it into a clear, compelling plan? See how LivePlan helps you move from concept to confident presentation — all in one guided platform. This is not a sales pitch but a demonstration from a non-biased party to help you with your journey.

We’ll walk through the full business planning process from crafting a powerful elevator pitch to building financial forecasts and tracking progress over time. Whether you’re just starting out or refining an existing plan, you’ll learn how to structure your ideas, organize your strategy, and present your business with clarity.

Attend an in person networking event at ignite

CEDF

May 13, 20, 27, 2026

You’ve jump-started your business — now  it’s time to shift into a higher gear. Gear Up for Growth is a hands-on, in-person workshop series designed for graduates of My Business Jump Start and other earlystage entrepreneurs ready to strengthen their operations, boost sales, and improve financial performance.

Over three dynamic sessions, participants will learn practical strategies to refine daily management, build a stronger brand presence, and prepare for smart financing  opportunities. 

Leave ready to lead with confidence, drive your business forward, and turn early success into lasting achievement.

Better Women Better Business

May 21, 2026 | 5:30 - 8:30 PM

Experience The Flyy Movement Vision Board Experience with Iya Anyango Yaa Asantewaa and create a powerful visual for your next chapter while connecting with like-minded women.

Please note a payment fee of $35 per person is required in advance to secure your spot for this event.

Thank you to our Foundation sponsors

Saatva operates exclusively online selling ultra premium luxury mattresses servicing every state in the Continental USA.

Sippin Energy Products offers delivery of home heating bio-fuel and propane as well as generator installations, heating and air conditioning sales, service, and installation, and excavation services.

Express Strategies LLC offers strategic communications and public policy consulting, as well as advocacy writing, project management and media relations.

Chelsea Groton Bank is a mutually owned bank with 14 locations throughout New London County and a lending center in Hartford County. Chelsea Groton offers checking, savings, and lending products, financial wellness programming, and hands-on support to help individuals, families, and businesses.