FREDERICKSBURG, Texas (September 14, 2026) – The Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce will host its October Master Class focusing on Small Business Resources, on Tuesday, October 6, from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at the Pioneer Museum Sanctuary, 312 W. San Antonio St. 

Sponsored by Fredericksburg Farms, the Master Class will feature experts from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the UTSA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Natalie Rhodes Consulting.

David L. Elizondo, District Director of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s San Antonio District Office, and Richard Sifuentes, Director of the UTSA Small Business Development Center, will present “SBA Small Business Resources & New Initiatives.” The session will highlight current resources available to small businesses and provide information on new initiatives designed to support entrepreneurs and business owners.

Elizondo brings extensive district leadership experience and a background in congressional affairs. Sifuentes brings more than 30 years of experience in upper-level management, business advising, procurement and project management. 

The Master Class will also feature Natalie Rhodes of Natalie Rhodes Consulting, a leadership coach, facilitator and consultant with 20 years of experience working with individuals and organizations. Rhodes will lead an interactive mini-workshop, “Fostering Engagement with Clients & Colleagues.”

In an increasingly digital and fast-paced business environment, meaningful personal and professional connections can sometimes take a back seat. Rhodes will explore barriers to engagement, strategies for improving connections and practical ways to expand professional networks.

“Small businesses don’t have to figure everything out on their own,” said Kelly Criddle, Director of Operations for the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce. “There are organizations and resources available to help, and this Master Class gives business owners an opportunity to learn more about those resources directly from the experts. We’re also excited to include Natalie’s session on building relationships, because those connections can be just as valuable as the resources themselves.” 

Following the presentations, attendees are invited to stay for a wine reception and continue the conversation while networking with the speakers and fellow attendees. The Chamber thanks H-E-B and Untamed Wines for sponsoring refreshments for the networking reception. H-E-B will provide the food, and Untamed Wines will provide the wine.

The Chamber’s Master Class series provides local business owners, professionals and community members with opportunities to learn from experts on topics relevant to business growth and success. 

Registration is available now. Seating is limited, and advance registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, visit the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce website, fbgtxchamber.org, or contact the Chamber office at (830) 997-5000.

The mission of the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce is to champion our business community through collaboration, information and service.

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