Course Title: Canva vs. Microsoft Designer: Free Tools for Stunning Marketing Content Developed by: Martin Brossman and Dr. Justin Rose Alternate Title: Using Free Microsoft Designer & Canva to Develop Marketing and Social Media Content Online and Offline Plus AI
Course Description:
Learn how to use the free levels of Microsoft Designer & Canva graphic design tools, along with AI integration. Microsoft is directly competing with Canva offering AI-powered graphic tools.
Discover how Canva and Designer can transform your ads, signs, social media posts, and more, making you look like a graphic professional, even with minimal experience. Learn to utilize the free version effectively and know when to upgrade to the paid version if necessary. With these tools, creators and small businesses can effortlessly design professional-looking content for services or products in minutes, thanks to their free account and a wide range of templates and free resources. Whether you need flyers, social media graphics, or other media, Canva and Designer both have you covered.
Learning Objectives:
– The basic utility of the free level of Microsoft Designer & Canva Microsoft Designer and Canva, both offer a free level that provides users with access to a wide range of features and tools to create professional-looking designs including, but not limited to:
– Templates: Offers a vast collection of professionally designed templates for various purposes, including social media posts, logos, flyers, and more. – Images and Graphics: Provides a library of stock images, icons, and graphics that can be used in design projects. – Text Editing: Includes text editing tools to adjust font, size, color, and alignment of text elements. – Backgrounds: Offers a variety of backgrounds, including solid colors, gradients, and patterns. – Export Options: Designs can be exported in various formats, including JPEG, PNG, PDF, and SVG. – Collaboration: Allows for collaboration with others in real-time, enabling multiple users to work on the same design project simultaneously.
Focusing On Ways That Businesses, Communities, & Individuals Can Support Main Street Retailers
“A whopping 77% of local merchants tell us they still aren’t making as much money as they earned prior to the pandemic. And some are barely hanging on.” — Alignable’s Chuck Casto
This is why launching our roundtable discussion in May was an important move to help jump-start what’s really needed for local merchants: a much better retail recovery across the U.S. and Canada.
Small Business Crusaders Chuck Casto & Mitchell Groves from Alignable co-hosted the event.
The Heart & Soul Of Our Communities & Small Biz Economy
Main Street retailers have long been the heart and soul of our communities. These small businesses contribute to the local economy, provide employment opportunities, and create a unique and vibrant atmosphere.
However, in the face of growing challenges, it’s crucial that we come together to support these businesses now more than ever.
In the roundtable panel discussion on May 22nd, 2023, we explored effective marketing strategies and shared valuable insights for helping Main Street retailers thrive.
Let’s explore the key takeaways and discover how we can band together to make a difference.
Creating An Unforgettable Customer Experience
One of the fundamental tips shared during the discussion was the importance of providing customers with an experience they’ll never forget.
By investing in exceptional customer service and going above and beyond, Main Street retailers can foster customer loyalty and encourage repeat business.
The panelists emphasized the need to constantly innovate and make each visit unique, ensuring customers feel that they’re getting something more with each interaction.
Key Takeaway: Be more than a clerk in your own business, hoping for customers to come in. Instead, enroll customers into being ambassadors of your product or service.
Strengthening Online & Social Presence
In today’s digital age, having a robust online and social media presence, (including YouTube and updated Google Business Profiles) is essential for Main Street retailers.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the significance of e-commerce and online sales channels, even for brick-and-mortar establishments.
By embracing technology and expanding their online capabilities, retailers can reach a broader audience and attract new customers.
Key Takeaway: It’s important not to shy away from the online sphere but rather embrace it as a powerful tool for growth.
Embracing Uniqueness and Standing Out
The panelists unanimously agreed that standing out from the competition is vital for Main Street retailers.
Whether it’s through exceptional customer service, personalized interactions, or showcasing their unique personality, retailers should let their individuality shine.
Fortune favors the bold, and even introverted business owners can find ways to differentiate themselves and leave a lasting impression.
Allowing customers to get to know the people behind the business can build trust and loyalty.
Key Takeaway: Leverage your smallness! A small local brick-and-mortar business has three advantages over a direct-owned business: personal connection to the local community, the ability to adapt quickly, and the people of their business. Don’t hide behind your brand.
Collaborating with Fellow Merchants
The power of collaboration was another key theme discussed by the panelists.
Main Street retailers can team up with fellow merchants to create multi-store events that turn their street into a must-visit destination.
Hosting holiday strolls and other community-driven events can bring people together, generate excitement, and drive foot traffic.
Key Takeaway: By supporting and promoting each other, retailers can collectively benefit and strengthen the local economy.
Understanding Your Cash Flow
Cash flow is vital to the success of any small business.
As panelist Dave Baldwin shared during our event, brick-and-mortar businesses often spend years in “survival mode,” making just barely enough to cover expenses.
We all need to perform a periodic SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of business models, especially in the wake of economically disruptive events like the COVID-19 pandemic that has changed the competitive landscape forever.
Key Takeaway: A business may need to re-engineer its fundamental business model to align with current market conditions.
Utilizing Resources and Networking Opportunities
The panelists highlighted the importance of taking advantage of available resources and networking opportunities.
Joining industry-specific groups and seeking advice from peers on platforms like Alignable can provide valuable insights and foster referral networks.
Engaging with local alliances and becoming involved in community events can further enhance visibility and help forge connections within the neighborhood.
Additionally, exploring vendor marketplaces and participating in contests can open doors to new marketing opportunities and increase exposure.
Key Takeaway: If you have a brick-and-mortar business, make sure to write positive reviews of other businesses in your area and on Alignable. If you don’t make an effort to review other businesses, why should anyone review your business?
Concluding Thoughts
Main Street retailers are the backbone of our communities, but they need our support to thrive in today’s challenging business landscape.
By prioritizing the customer experience, strengthening our online presence, embracing uniqueness, collaborating with fellow merchants, and utilizing available resources, we can make a significant impact.
Remember, shopping local and reviewing local businesses can help them flourish and ensure the vitality of our neighborhoods.
Let’s rally together, uplift our Main Street retailers, and create a brighter future for all.
Get Out There & Spend!
What can customers do to support locally-owned and operated Brick and Mortar Businesses?
Shop local whenever possible.
Tell your friends and family about your favorite local businesses.
Leave positive reviews online and share on social media when you are there.
Support local events and festivals.
Donate to local charities that support small businesses.
Make sure local legislators are looking out for small businesses and hold them to it.
These are a few things you can do to help to ensure that Main Street retailers have the support they need to survive and thrive.
You keep money in your community longer by shopping locally-owned-and-operated businesses.
Key Takeaway: We, as merchants, all need to do much more than just chant shop small or shop local. We must creatively work together to create a value worthy of people stepping away from their computer and showing up in our businesses and communities.
Humans often burn brightest in challenging times, and this is one of those opportunities for brick-and-mortar businesses. Find new ways to overcome differences and work together on the ground and on the web to draw in customers for a collective experience that they can not get online alone.
Learn more about our paid group for helping Brick & Mortar Businesses, as well: The Main Street Mastermind. It’s just $29/month and we’re sure you’ll get a lot out of it.
Be sure to watch it and keep your eyes out for future events like it!
Thanks for reading!
A very active Alignable member since 2016, Martin Brossman is a leading authority on Small Business Marketing, Reputation Management, and building a positive digital presence. He has 10,000+ followers online. Martin is a business coach, consultant, and a dynamic trainer known for his insight and humor. He provides customized coaching and training for individuals and groups, integrating digital media, professional networking, and reputation management. Martin is the moderator for the Alignable Brick and Mortar business owners group and runs The Main Street Mastermind Group, as well.
Show Me the Money: Crowdfunding and Modern Funding Paths for Small Businesses Show me the Money – Crowdfunding and other creative ways to get money for Small Business Owners
Developed by: Martin Brossman and Dan Scala Video about the training: https://youtu.be/iTBSf4jGbGU Case Study of success: Interview with an Award-Winning Local Business – OMGoodness Pimento Cheese https://youtu.be/QApBeq56Pdo
Course Description: Crowdfunding is one of many new creative ways of getting funding for small businesses. This class demystifies crowdfunding and other new ways to get money for small businesses today with a lower barrier to entry. You will learn the how-to of getting money for your business and what is the right funding to explore. Developed by Social Media and Small Business Marketing expert Martin Brossman and Small Business Funding expert Dan Scala.
Learning Objectives: Understanding the different new top creative funding ideas and which one is right for you.
Course Materials: Handout and extensive online resources of links to gain more knowledge.
Who is it for: Small Business Owners, Entrepreneurs, and Inventors.
Course Length: 2 hrs
Trainers and Developers Martin Brossman and Dan Scala
Martin Brossman is a leading authority on social media and online marketing. He is a business coach, consultant and dynamic trainer known for his insight and humor. A member of the National Speakers Bureau, Martin is a popular speaker on social media topics. He teaches at North Carolina Community College Small Business Centers throughout the state.
Martin offers customized coaching and training solutions for individuals and groups integrating social media, social networking, and reputation management strategies. An advocate for professional transparency, Martin is a catalyst for achieving powerful business results with integrity. An overview is featured on his website, ProNetworkingOnline.com.
His recent books, Linking Into Sales and Social Media for Business, provide guidance and resources for accelerating professional networking and marketing; both are available at Amazon.com.
Martin’s clients have included: IBM, SAS, GlaxoSmithKline, EPA, Women’s power networking, North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants, Professional Photographers Association of NC, Small Business Centers, Chambers of Commerce, Counties and Towns across NC…. to name a few.
Active Member of ASTD—American Association for Trainers and Developers, NSA—National Speakers Association
Recognition: 2007 Ron Hering Mission of Service Award, 2009 Ethel N. Fortner Writer and Community Award from St. Andrews Presbyterian College, RTP volunteer of the year 2001 by the Governor of NC & IBM Mean’s Service award, completed, Fonder of the KI Coaching: Coaching Certification Program, Founding member of UPSA of RTP, Certified & Registered Sales Professional (CRSP), Certified & Registered Sales Professional Trainer (CRSP-T)
Dan Scala Dan is the co-founder of the “Center for Excellence”, a learning and development center serving small business owners and entrepreneurs in the Raleigh area.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Electronics Engineering from the University of South Carolina.
Dan spent 25 years working as an Engineering Manager in a variety of Computer companies.
Over the past 17 years, he has started up and grown several businesses and companies, including a management consulting firm, a commercial real estate development company, a business brokerage firm, 2 restaurants, a convenience store and 4 truck rental agencies.
He is a graduate of the Council for Entrepreneurial Development’s Fast Track 1 and 2 programs and has grown 2 of his companies to over the million-dollar mark . He currently serves as a volunteer member of the speaker’s bureau with the Raleigh Chapter of SCORE .
Dan currently spends his time dedicated to helping others interested in starting up and growing new businesses.
Marketing for Artists: Series of Webinars to Grow Your Creative Business Marketing for Artists Series – A series of 2 hour Webinars – All can be offered as an in person intensive or as webinar series (imperson is prefered). In person can include two or more trainings.
Developed and taught by Martin Brossman, Jeanne Munoz & Dr Justin Rose
From Passion to Profit: Building a Sustainable Arts and Crafts Business
This practical, artist focused workshop is designed for creatives who want to turn their talent into a reliable income stream without losing their authentic voice. You will learn how to present yourself professionally, tell the story behind your work, price with confidence, and use both online and offline tools to attract buyers and build long term relationships. The focus is on real world strategies you can apply immediately, whether you are just starting or ready to grow.
Learning objectives
– Learn how to present yourself as an artist both online and in person to build trust, visibility, and lasting buyer relationships – Craft compelling stories around your work that communicate value and emotionally connect with customers – Develop a clear pricing strategy and simple formula you can confidently apply to new pieces and collections – Understand the fundamentals of print on demand and when it makes sense for your creative business – Discover practical online tools and resources for marketing, selling, and managing an arts and crafts business
You will leave with a clearer business direction, practical tools you can use right away, and a stronger foundation for growing your creative work into a sustainable business.
Turning Visibility into Sales: Strategic Marketing for Artists and Creative Businesses
This action oriented training helps artists and makers move beyond exposure and turn attention into consistent sales. Designed as both a powerful standalone class and a natural follow up to foundational business training, this session focuses on practical marketing strategies that help you reach the right buyers, communicate value clearly, and guide customers toward purchasing your work. The emphasis is on simple systems and smart choices that respect your time and creative energy.
Learning objectives
Create a clear, workable marketing plan by setting realistic goals and choosing strategies that fit your art business
Identify and understand your ideal customers so your marketing speaks directly to the people most likely to buy
Select the right social media platforms for your audience instead of trying to be everywhere at once
Use hashtags effectively to expand reach and improve discoverability without guesswork
Review and optimize your website so your work can be found and understood online
Clarify pricing strategies that support both sales and long term sustainability
Develop engaging content that showcases your work and reinforces your value
Apply storytelling techniques that build emotional connection and buyer confidence
Create compelling images and short videos that attract attention and support sales
You will leave with a focused marketing approach, clearer messaging, and practical tools to help turn interest in your art into real, repeatable sales.
From Studio to Spotlight: Getting Your Art into Galleries
This focused training is designed for artists who want to successfully position their work for gallery representation while maintaining control of their professional identity. It works as a strong next step after learning business and marketing fundamentals, and it also stands alone for artists ready to pursue gallery opportunities now. You will gain a clear understanding of how galleries evaluate artists, how to present yourself professionally, and how to approach the process with confidence and strategy rather than guesswork.
Learning objectives
Learn how to present and sell yourself as an artist in a way that aligns with gallery expectations
Build a strong online reputation that supports your credibility with gallerists and curators
Understand how to research, approach, and build long term relationships with galleries
Gain insight into common criteria galleries use when selecting artists
Navigate the submission process with clarity, professionalism, and realistic expectations
Apply proven tips and strategies that increase your chances of acceptance and long term success
You will leave with a clearer path, stronger professional positioning, and practical guidance to approach galleries with confidence and purpose.
From Booth to Buyer: Ten Proven Ways to Grow Art Market Sales Using Free AI Tools
This hands on training helps artists increase sales at art markets, festivals, and pop up events by combining proven in person selling techniques with free, easy to use AI tools. Designed as both a strong next step in a larger learning path and a fully standalone class, this session focuses on practical ways AI can support your planning, presentation, messaging, and follow up without replacing your creativity or personal connection with buyers.
Learning objectives
Use free AI tools to plan and promote your participation before an art market, including messaging and event outreach
Improve booth layout, signage, and display ideas by using AI for visual inspiration and customer flow concepts
Develop a clear, confident sales pitch with AI assisted wording that still sounds like you
Apply pricing and presentation strategies supported by AI assisted comparisons and testing scenarios
Practice natural customer conversations and responses using AI as a rehearsal and idea tool
Create simple content such as short descriptions, signage text, and follow up messages using free AI tools
Discover AI assisted ways to research upcoming art markets and evaluate which ones best fit your goals
You will leave with practical sales strategies, simple AI powered tools you can use immediately, and a clearer system for turning art market appearances into stronger sales and repeat customers.
