Orcas Business Smart Workshops presented by OCRC and the Orcas Chamber

The Orcas Chamber of Commerce and Orcas Community Resource Center are presenting four workshops designed to provide Orcas small business owners training and skill development. The series will be held in the community room at the Orcas Library. October 13 and October 27, 5:30–7:30 p.m.: First Aid for Small Business Preparing Your Business—and Your Household—for Winter Steve McCaslin of WSU and Orcas-based financial literacy specialist Elisabeth Britt will co-facilitate this two-part workshop. Participants will practice forecasting winter cash flow, accounting for business expenses and essential household needs, identifying potential shortfalls, and planning for spring reopening costs. We’ll explore practical steps owners can take before cash becomes tight. November 10 th, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m .: Demystifying Washington State’s Business Taxes M aking sense of B&O tax, state and local sales tax, use tax, and excise tax returns—with practical guidance on what to report and when to file. B&O taxes, sales tax, use tax, deductions, filing frequencies, and excise tax returns can feel intimidating. Diana Villegas, tax information specialist, will guide participants through these topics, helping small business owners better understand their responsibilities and feel more confident about filing. December 8, 5:30–7:30 p.m.: From Receipts to Reliable Records, turn receipts, invoices, and bank statements into organized business records with a simple routine you can maintain. This hands-on workshop will help small business owners and sole proprietors organize receipts, invoices, and bank transactions. Participants will practice recording income and expenses, distinguishing business and personal transactions, and checking records against bank and credit card statements. They will leave with a manageable weekly and monthly record keeping routine.