On Thursday, February 5, 2026, the Layton City Center transformed into a hub of strategic growth and resilience. The city’s latest quarterly Small Business Seminar, titled “Empower Your Small Business: Master Inflation, Secure Financing, Defend Against Cyber Threats, and Navigate Economic Uncertainty,” provided local business owners with a high-impact roadmap for thriving in a complex fiscal environment. The session was more than just a lecture; it was a tactical workshop designed to give Layton’s small business community the tools to turn economic challenges into competitive advantages.
Expert Insights from First Community Bank
The event featured a powerhouse panel of finance and operations experts, including Brent Worthington (VP Business Development), Jarrod Murphy (VP Commercial Loan Officer), Charlotte Thompson (VP Treasury Operations Manager), Kim Reeder (VP Business Development Officer), from First Community Bank, who shared boots-on-the-ground strategies for 2026.
The seminar adopted a spirit of collaboration, with the panel opening the session by detailing the current economic landscape and the importance of proactive growth strategies. They provided a deep dive into securing vital access to capital, helping owners understand how to remain bankable even when interest rates fluctuate. This led to a critical segment on fortifying operations against escalating cybersecurity risks and digital threats. The panel wrapped up the seminar by offering practical advice on managing cash flow and navigating the nuances of economic policy uncertainty.
Brady Stratton (SVP Marketing/CRA Officer) and the team at First Community Bank generously provided a free lunch, allowing attendees to network and discuss specific challenges with the panelists in a more casual setting. Layton City continues to prioritize its local economy by hosting these seminars quarterly. These events cover a diverse spectrum of essential business topics, including:
- Social Media Marketing and Customer Service
- Tax Strategies & Financial Planning
- Employee Recruitment and Retention
Looking Ahead
If you missed this session, don’t wait until next quarter to get involved. Staying informed is the first step toward securing your business’s future in an ever-changing market. Get Involved: For more details on future seminars or to learn about economic development resources in the city, contact Morgan Cloward at the Layton City Community & Economic Development department at mcloward@laytoncity.org.