Starbucks Founder to Speak at Small Business Conference

Biotechnology entrepreneur Alfred Mann, former basketball great and businessman Magic Johnson and Starbucks founder Howard Schultz will be among the keynote speakers at the second Los Angeles Times Small Business Strategies Conference on Sept. 24 and 25.

The conference, at the Los Angeles Convention Center, is expected to draw more than 10,000 small-business owners. The focus will be on growth and preparation for the new century.

Attendees may choose from 48 panels and workshops given by noted entrepreneurs, small-business leaders, innovators and consultants. Topics will address financing, marketing, sales, business basics and techniques for growth.

Most of the sessions will be instructional and interactive, with nuts-and-bolts information that business owners can put to use immediately.

A series of sessions called “Top Industry Methods” will provide tips on the best business techniques in six industries: biomedical/bioscience, business consulting, manufacturing, technology, exporting and retail.

Two-person teams consisting of an industry consultant and a noted entrepreneur will lead these sessions.

In addition to sponsor booths, the conference exhibit hall will feature networking sessions and an ask-the-experts area where business owners can get advice.

Registration begins Aug. 4. To get on a mailing list, go to https://www.latimes.com/sbsc for more information.