How to celebrate Small Business Week with Birmingham Business Alliance—networking events, workshops + more

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Small Business Week is May 4-10, and it’s all about celebrating the hustle, heart and impact of small businesses and the people behind them.

As you know, Birmingham is packed with amazing local spots and passionate business owners, so where better to celebrate than right here in The Magic City?

Read on for what’s in store this year, from free networking events to workshops and luncheons.

Birmingham Business Alliance hosts 2025 Small Business Week events

The Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) is an organization dedicated to help create opportunities for businesses of all sizes, including small businesses and entrepreneurs.

This May, the BBA is gearing up to host an exciting list of Small Business Week events. The goal: to provide invaluable information on how to grow, evolve and be successful by participating in expert panels, discussions, networking opportunities and more.

“At the Birmingham Business Alliance, we’re proud to support and uplift the small business community, because their success drives regional growth. Through collaboration and intentional support, we’re helping to create an ecosystem where small businesses don’t just survive, they thrive.”

Steve Ammons, President + CEO, Birmingham Business Alliance

Ready to see what’s on the agenda? Check it out below:

Day 1: Grounds for Conversation

• What: Enjoy complimentary coffee, connect with fellow professionals + meet the BBA’s Small Business team.
• When: Monday, May 5 | 7:30-9AM
• Where: House Eleven, 5229 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35212
• Cost: Free admission
• Register

Day 2: Small Business Intensive

• What: This exclusive event offers a sneak peek into the BBA’s Small Business Intensive. Normally a private class, one session will be open during Small Business Week to anyone wanting to gain invaluable business growth information. Bonus: You’ll also learn how to apply for the BBA’s next Small Business Intensive, taking place August 5-October 21.
• When: Tuesday, May 6 | 5-7PM
• Where: Birmingham Business Alliance Auditorium, 505 20th St N, #200, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: Free admission
• Register

Day 3: Optimize to Thrive Workshop

• What: Are you a business owner or operations leaders? Don’t miss this engaging workshop led by Howell Consulting Services CEO and From Scratch Business Advisory Services Managing Partner Carnelle Howell. You’ll gain valuable insights on optimizing workflows, leveraging tools and technology + building systems that scale. 
• When: Wednesday, May 7 | 1-3PM
• Where: Birmingham Business Alliance Auditorium, 505 20th St N, #200, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: Free admission
• Register

First Round

• What: This bi-monthly networking event is designed to help attendees become better connected with professionals throughout the Birmingham Region. Bonus: The first round of drinks is on the BBA!
• When: Wednesday, May 7 | 5-7PM
• Where: The Six Sixteen Restaurant and Bar, 2021 Park Pl, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: BBA Investors, free admission | Non-investors $10
• Register

Day 4: BBA Luncheon

• What: This event is a great way to participate in valuable networking opportunities + meaningful conversations that can help shape Birmingham’s business landscape + drive our region forward. You’ll hear from a dynamic panel of local leaders as they discuss small business innovation, growth + success on the topic of “Building Birmingham: Journeys in Small Business Development.”  
  • Moderator: Birmingham Business Alliance Small Business Director Victor Brown 
  • Panel:
    • Central Alabama Redevelopment Alliance CEO Jeremy Duckworth 
    • City of Birmingham IEO Small Business Relationship Coordinator Dorothy “Dot” George 
    • City of Birmingham IEO Director Cornell Wesley  
    • Birmingham Business Resource Center Executive Director Bob Dickerson 
    • Alabama Small Business Development Center Network Finance Specialist & Business Advisor Suzanne Darden    
• When: Thursday, May 8 | 11:30AM-1PM
• Where: The Club, 1 Robert Smith Dr, Birmingham, Al 35209
• Cost: BBA Investors $35 | Non-investors $55
• Register

“Small Business Week is a powerful reminder that our local entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of Birmingham’s economy. These events are more than celebrations—they’re catalysts for connection.

They create space for business owners to build community, access critical resources, gain insight from those who’ve walked the path before them and form relationships that can fuel their next stage of growth.”

Victor Brown, Small Business Director , Birmingham Business Alliance

More ways to celebrate Small Business Week in Birmingham

There are more great ways you can take part in Small Business Week across The Magic City this May. For events and more:

• Check out the BBA’s event schedule.
• Visit the City of Birmingham’s Department of Innovation + Economic Opportunity’s 2025 Small Business Week website.

Ready to learn, network and celebrate Birmingham’s amazing small businesses? Get your tickets to the BBA’s Small Business Week events now.

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