Nov. 5: Free virtual workshop for entrepreneurs and business owners

PROVIDENCE, Oct. 19, 2026 — Beacon Bank, in partnership with the South Eastern Economic Development Corporation (SEED), will host a free virtual workshop Nov. 5 on the basics of business financing for business owners and entrepreneurs.

The live Zoom workshop “Business Fundamentals and Financing Basics” will be held from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and will cover key elements of the business financing process, including lender expectations, an overview of a business plan and the information and documentation needed to apply for a loan.

Participants are urged to register in advance. To register, please email Ashley Ricard at SEED at [email protected].

“We want business owners to understand the factors that lenders consider and the steps they can take to make informed decisions,” said Manny Barrows, executive vice president, director of business banking for Beacon Bank’s Rhode Island region. “Being prepared is an important part of the financing process.”

In addition to Barrows, the workshop will feature presenters Joe Brito, vice president, business banking relationship manager for Beacon Bank, and Angela Laperriere, vice president, business assistance manager and lending officer at SEED.

“Access to the right information and resources can make a meaningful difference for small business owners,” said Laperriere. “By partnering with Beacon Bank, we’re helping entrepreneurs better understand their financing options and connect with resources that can support them at every stage of business development.”

The workshop is open to individuals who own a business, are in the process of launching one, or are exploring a new business idea.