.svg)
SMART Programming
These aren’t “sit-and-listen” training sessions. They’re get-it-done-together workshops for small business owners and teams in the Eastern Upper Peninsula.
Simple. Measurable. Actionable. Real. Tangible.
Who it’s for:
Any EUP small business that wants to work smarter, not harder. Whether you’re brand new to “getting expert help” or you’ve just never had time to set up good systems, these programs are designed with you in mind.
What makes them different?
- You don’t just learn about systems — you build them.
- You’ll leave with real tools and documents ready to use in your business tomorrow.
- Expert guides (local and approachable) walk you step-by-step through the stuff you usually put off.
- We keep it fun, plainspoken, and useful — no jargon, no boring slides.
What you get:
- Suggestions for sustainable systems.
- Hands-on help from experts who speak human, not textbook.
- Connections to other small business folks doing the same thing.
Workshops will be available at The Sault Ste Marie SmartZone - Headwaters North on Meridian. If you have questions about the programs, complete the contact form below, and someone will get with you pronto!
You can also sign up to receive the weekly news flash as new programs become available.
Upcoming SMART Programming
SMART Sessions
1-hour virtual meetings
1-hour virtual meetings
SMART Workshops
3.5-hour in-person sessions
3.5-hour in-person sessions
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Sort by
July 21, 2026
Understanding Your Customer Contracts
This plain-language walkthrough covers the provisions that matter most, from payment terms and liability caps to indemnification, dispute resolution, and termination rights, so you know what you're signing and when to call a lawyer.
Register Today
July 22, 2026
SMART Workshop#10 | Hands-On Strategy & Systems - Your Playbook in a Day
Every small business needs a playbook — a clear vision, measurable goals, and simple systems that everyone can follow. In this hands-on SMART Workshop, operations expert Tyler Sharette will guide you step-by-step through building one.
Register Today
July 28, 2026
Making a Vision Happen
In this session, Tyler will guide you through the essential steps of setting meaningful goals, breaking them into achievable priorities, and organizing your people so everyone pulls in the same direction.
Register Today
August 4, 2026
Business Planning for Busy People
Transform your business idea into a structured strategy using the Business Model Canvas. Whether you are preparing a formal business plan for a financial lender or simply organizing your thoughts, this versatile tool provides the clarity needed to move forward.
Register Today
August 11, 2026
Managing Your Public Identity
This session explores how personal branding and public relations principles intersect to shape reputation, influence opportunity, and build trust.
Register Today
August 18, 2026
AI in 40 Minutes, A Small Business Starter Guide
This session cuts through the noise and gives you a plain-English tour of what AI tools are, what they're genuinely good at, and how businesses just like yours are already using them to save hours every week. No jargon. No hype.
Register Today
August 19, 2026
SMART Workshop#11 | Quickbooks Financials & Cashflow Mastered
Let's be honest: Financial management can feel like a foreign language. Many of us started our businesses because we're good at what we do, not because we're expert accountants!
Register Today
September 9, 2026
SMART Workshop#12 | Marketing Bootcamp
Close the gaps in your marketing and strengthen your brand and messaging. We work with you to bootstrap your way to improved communication through a series of activities, including core concepts like segmentation, targeting, and placement.
Register Today
Can’t find what you need?
Our team has access to the statewide MEDC library and SBDC market research tools. If you are looking for specific data or a specific template, just ask.
What does support look like?
If we aren't failing at some things, we aren't trying to succeed.
Ken from Northern Natives used an SBSH grant to upgrade to satellite internet and a commercial printer. It wasn't glamorous, but it was a game-changer. It allowed him to stop fighting with technology and start selling wholesale native seeds across the region. That’s what this toolkit is for.
