What it is
Brain Boost is a monthly brown bag event designed to build expertise, catapult the success of small businesses, and ensure equitable access to a wealth of knowledge.
Topics vary, but always aim to leave you better equipped to grow your business or career: from mission statements to marketing strategy, branding to business structure, dealing with difficult clients/people, keeping your focus, and riding out the rough times.
How it works
People from a wide variety of professions and walks of life share their experiences and expertise in a 30- to 40-minute educational talk. Then, with the help of a facilitator, participants engage in active conversation for up to 30 minutes. It’s a mash-up of an educational talk and a mastermind group, meant to spark inclusive conversation and circulate the abundant knowledge within Frederick’s small biz community.
Participants bring their lunch (optionally). Drinks and light snacks are provided. The Foundation covers the cost of running the program and the meeting space, with the help of sponsors. Speakers volunteer their time.
“I not only learn valuable information and about resources in the Frederick community, I get to meet others and network.”
[Sara, attended Doing Business in Frederick]“This concept of collaboration on numerous important subjects is an awesome gem for Frederick.”
[Jim, attended Intellectual Property]
Past Brain Boost Topics
Below is just a sample of topics covered in the past. Listen to these and more on the Cowork Frederick YouTube channel.
Head to this page to see upcoming topics.
- The Art of Getting Unstuck (our very first Brain Boost in May 2023!)
- CHATGPT: The Ultimate Hack to Cut Down Your Workload
- How to Create a Podcast to Elevate Your Business
- Enhancing Communication in Multilingual Teams
- Intellectual Property
- How to Self-publish a Book
- AI Alchemy: Better Prompts, Hidden Tools
- Paying the ADHD Tax: Managing Money with ADHD
Want to support this program? We’re always looking for speakers and sponsors. Read on.
Why speak at a Lunch & Learn?
- Because you’ve been there.
- Because you wish someone taught you this stuff when you were getting started.
- Because you recognize the importance of continuous growth.
- Because people have helped you, and it’s your turn to give back.
- Because, let’s face it, it’s fun to show off a little.
“I was able to pilot a workshop I had been working on to a packed room and engaged audience. I got valuable feedback that I used to refine the workshop. Now I am offering it to companies and organizations.”
[Julie Yoder, speaker May 2025, AI Alchemy: Better Prompts, Hidden Tools]
Support this program
$3600 covers the cost of running the program for a full year. An annual sponsorship comes with recognition on our website, in social media posts, and at the event (and our deep gratitude). Of course, any donation is much appreciated. Donors who give at least $100 will be listed on the website event page. Donations can be made online here or checks can be mailed to Cowork Frederick Foundation, 122 E Patrick St #4, Frederick, MD 21701.
2025 Sponsors
These generous sponsors have contributed $1000 (or more). 2025 is fully funded. We are now raising funds to continue this program in 2026. Join us in this important effort.
City of Frederick Economic Dev
NOMA Laundry
Glen & Julia Ferguson
