Race, Gender Conference Topics

How ethnic, race and gender differences factor into business will be addressed at the second Los Angeles Times Small Business Strategies Conference on Sept. 24-25.

Women’s unique business strengths will be discussed at a Sept. 24 panel featuring Pat Heim, author of “Hardball for Women,” and Carol Srole, a Cal State Los Angeles professor.

Business programs and resources for minorities will be detailed Sept. 24 at a panel featuring experts from the USC Business Expansion Network, the mayor’s Minority Business Opportunity Commission and the Regional Business Assistance Network.

Both sessions also will be presented in Spanish by speakers from the Latino business community.

A Sept. 25 session on marketing to minorities will include tips from Helen Shih, co-founder of a regional buying club for Asians, and Pat Means, publisher of Turning Point Magazine, which is geared to the African American community.

Another panel on Sept. 25 will discuss results of The Times’ survey of small businesses in Los Angeles County, particularly those owned by Latinos, African Americans and Asians.

The conference will target small-business owners trying to increase sales or employees.

The event, to be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, will feature more than 50 panel sessions, three networking sessions and more than 100 exhibitors.

To register or to get more information, call (800) 350-3211 or go to http://pyxis.nohib.com./sbsc.