Small Business Advisory Speakers

A small business advisory speaker is someone who shares expert guidance tailored to the challenges and opportunities faced by small business owners. Unlike general business speakers, these individuals specialize in the nuances of running and growing small enterprises, often drawing from hands-on experience or deep consulting backgrounds.

They typically speak at events like virtual summits, industry conferences, webinars, or podcasts, offering insights on topics such as funding, operations, marketing, leadership, and scaling. Their role is to translate complex business concepts into practical advice that small business owners can apply immediately.

What sets them apart is their ability to contextualize advice. For example, a speaker might explain how a local coffee shop can use CRM tools to boost customer loyalty, or how a family-run manufacturing business can navigate supply chain disruptions. It's not just about theory - it's about real-world application.

These speakers often come from diverse backgrounds: some are former entrepreneurs, others are consultants, accountants, or legal advisors who've worked closely with small businesses. Their credibility comes from both knowledge and relevance.

In essence, a small business advisory speaker is a bridge between expertise and execution. They help small business owners make smarter decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and seize growth opportunities with confidence.

When small business owners are bombarded with information, a small business advisory speaker cuts through the noise with clarity and relevance. Their importance lies in their ability to deliver focused, actionable insights that actually move the needle.

Small businesses operate with limited resources. They don't have time to sift through generic advice or trial-and-error their way through every decision. A speaker who understands their world can offer shortcuts to success - not in the gimmicky sense, but in the form of proven frameworks, tested strategies, and real-life examples.

Consider a startup founder in Lagos trying to navigate digital payments, or a boutique owner in Melbourne exploring e-commerce. A speaker who's worked with similar businesses in those regions can offer tailored advice that resonates. That kind of specificity is invaluable.

They also serve as catalysts for confidence. When a speaker shares a story about a business that overcame a challenge similar to yours, it's not just inspiring - it's empowering. It helps owners feel less isolated and more capable.

Finally, small business advisory speakers often help shape broader conversations. They bring attention to emerging trends, policy shifts, or market changes that small businesses need to prepare for. In that way, they're not just advisors - they're advocates, educators, and connectors.

Small business advisory speakers wear multiple hats, but their core function is to educate, empower, and equip small business owners with the tools they need to thrive. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Deliver Targeted Talks.
- They speak at events, summits, and webinars on topics like cash flow management, digital marketing, customer retention, or leadership. Their talks are tailored to small business realities - not corporate theory.

2. Share Real-World Strategies.
- They provide frameworks and case studies that owners can apply immediately. For example, a speaker might walk through how a local retailer used SMS marketing to increase foot traffic or how a solopreneur automated client onboarding.

3. Offer Industry-Specific Insights.
- Many speakers specialize in niches like hospitality, tech startups, or creative services. This allows them to go deep, offering insights that are both relevant and actionable.

4. Facilitate Q&A and Coaching.
- Beyond keynotes, they often host breakout sessions or live Q&As where they answer specific questions. This interactive format helps attendees get personalized advice.

5. Connect Communities.
- Great speakers don't just talk - they listen. They often act as connectors, introducing attendees to tools, partners, or other experts who can help them grow.

In short, small business advisory speakers are educators, strategists, and community builders. They bring clarity to complexity and help small business owners make smarter moves, faster.

Becoming a small business advisory speaker isn't just about having business experience. It's about knowing how to communicate that experience in a way that resonates with entrepreneurs, founders, and decision-makers. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Define Your Niche and Expertise
- Are you a pro at scaling local businesses? Do you specialize in financial strategy for startups? Pinpoint your value.
- Tip: The more specific your niche, the easier it is to stand out. For example, 'small business growth in rural communities' is more memorable than just 'business growth'.

2. Build Credibility Through Content
- Start publishing articles, hosting webinars, or launching a podcast. Share actionable advice that solves real problems.
- Use platforms like LinkedIn, Medium, or even Talks.co to build your speaker page and showcase your insights.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- Your speaker page is your digital resume. Include your bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and a professional headshot.
- Talks.co makes this easy by connecting speakers with event hosts. It's a great way to start getting booked.

4. Network with Event Organizers and Hosts
- Reach out to conference planners, podcast hosts, and virtual summit organizers. Offer to speak for free initially to build your portfolio.
- Tip: Use platforms like Talks.co to get matched with relevant events. It saves time and puts you in front of the right audience.

5. Refine Your Talk and Get Feedback
- Practice your talk in front of peers or record yourself. Focus on clarity, storytelling, and delivering value.
- Ask for feedback and tweak your delivery. The best speakers are constantly improving.

6. Start Small, Then Scale
- Begin with local meetups, online summits, or niche podcasts. As you gain traction, aim for larger conferences and international stages.

Remember, becoming a small business advisory speaker is a journey. The more you speak, the more you learn what resonates-and that's when the real momentum kicks in.

To be a small business advisory speaker, you need more than just a microphone and a LinkedIn profile. It takes a mix of expertise, communication skills, and strategic positioning. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You must have a deep understanding of small business challenges and solutions. This could come from running your own business, consulting, or working in advisory roles. Whether it's marketing, operations, finance, or leadership-you need to bring real-world experience to the table.

2. A Clear Message and Unique Angle
What sets you apart from other speakers? Maybe you specialize in helping minority-owned businesses access capital, or you've scaled a franchise model across multiple countries. Your unique story and insights are what make you valuable to event organizers.

3. Strong Communication Skills
You don't have to be a TED-level orator, but you do need to engage an audience. That means storytelling, clarity, and the ability to break down complex ideas into digestible insights. Practice is key here.

4. A Professional Speaker Profile
This includes a speaker page (like the ones on Talks.co), a well-written bio, a list of your speaking topics, and ideally, a video reel. Event hosts want to know what they're getting.

5. A Way to Get Booked
You can't speak if no one knows you exist. That's where platforms like Talks.co come in handy-they connect speakers with hosts looking for experts. You should also actively pitch yourself to podcasts, summits, and conferences.

6. Social Proof and Testimonials
Once you've spoken at a few events, collect testimonials. They build trust and help you get booked for bigger gigs.

In short, being a small business advisory speaker is about combining your knowledge with a platform and presence. It's not just what you know-it's how you share it and who hears it.

Yes, small business advisory speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's unpack this with a bit of analysis.

Factors That Influence Payment:
- Experience Level: New speakers might speak for free or a small honorarium, while seasoned experts can command thousands per appearance.
- Event Type: Corporate conferences and industry expos usually pay more than local meetups or community events.
- Audience Size and Reach: A keynote at a global summit with 10,000 attendees pays more than a niche podcast.
- Speaker's Brand: If you're a published author, media contributor, or have a large following, your perceived value increases.

Payment Models:
- Flat Fee: Most common for keynotes and workshops.
- Revenue Share: Common in online summits or ticketed webinars.
- Lead Generation: Some speakers waive fees in exchange for access to attendee lists or the ability to pitch services.

Pros of Paid Speaking:
- Builds authority and income simultaneously.
- Can lead to consulting gigs or product sales.

Cons:
- Competitive market-especially for newer speakers.
- Some events offer 'exposure' instead of payment, which may or may not be worth it.

Example:
A speaker at a virtual summit might earn $500 for a 30-minute session, while a keynote at a national small business expo might fetch $5,000 or more.

Bottom line: Yes, small business advisory speakers get paid-but the range varies widely based on positioning, audience, and delivery.

Small business advisory speakers don't just earn from speaking fees. In fact, many turn their speaking gigs into a multi-stream income engine. Here's how they do it:
1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Keynotes, panels, and workshops at conferences or summits.
- Rates vary from $500 to $10,000+ depending on experience and audience size.
2. Consulting and Advisory Services
- Speaking often leads to consulting contracts. After hearing you speak, businesses may hire you to help implement your strategies.
- Example: A speaker on small business automation might land a $20,000 consulting deal after a conference talk.
3. Online Courses and Digital Products
- Many speakers monetize their knowledge through online courses, templates, or eBooks.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi are popular for this.
4. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
- Promote tools or services during your talk and earn a commission.
- Example: Recommending a CRM tool with an affiliate link during a webinar.
5. Hosting Paid Events or Summits
- Some speakers flip the script and host their own events. Using platforms like Talks.co, they can recruit other speakers and charge for access.
6. Retainers and Membership Communities
- Offer ongoing support through monthly retainers or private communities.
- Example: A $99/month mastermind group for small business owners.
Comparison Table:

Income Stream	Passive or Active	Typical Range
Paid Speaking	Active	$500 - $10,000+
Consulting	Active	$2,000 - $50,000+
Online Courses	Passive	$50 - $500 per sale
Affiliate Marketing	Passive	10%-50% commissions
Hosting Events	Active	Varies widely
Memberships	Semi-passive	$10 - $500/month

The smartest speakers diversify. They don't rely on one income stream-they build an ecosystem around their expertise.

The income of small business advisory speakers varies widely, and it's influenced by experience, niche, audience, and business model. Let's break it down with some real-world context and numbers.
Entry-Level Speakers
- These are folks just starting out, often speaking for free or for exposure.
- They might earn $0 to $500 per event.
- Many use these early gigs to build credibility and collect testimonials.
Mid-Level Speakers
- With a few years of experience and a solid speaker page (like those on Talks.co), these speakers can charge $1,000 to $5,000 per talk.
- They often supplement with consulting or digital products.
Top-Tier Speakers
- These are recognized experts, authors, or media personalities.
- They can command $10,000 to $50,000+ per keynote.
- Often booked for international conferences, corporate retreats, or government events.
Average Annual Income Estimates:

Speaker Type	Events/Year	Avg. Fee/Event	Estimated Annual Income
Entry-Level	10	$250	$2,500
Mid-Level	20	$2,500	$50,000
Top-Tier	30	$15,000	$450,000

Additional Income Sources:
- Consulting: $2,000 to $20,000/month.
- Online Courses: $1,000 to $100,000+ annually.
- Sponsorships: $500 to $10,000 per deal.
So while some speakers treat it as a side hustle, others build a full-fledged business around it. The ceiling is high if you're strategic and consistent.

Hiring a small business advisory speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown to help you understand the pricing landscape.
1. Experience and Reputation
- New Speakers: $0 to $1,000. Often willing to speak for free to gain exposure.
- Mid-Level Speakers: $1,000 to $5,000. These speakers have a track record and a clear niche.
- Top-Tier Speakers: $5,000 to $50,000+. These are bestselling authors, media figures, or industry leaders.
2. Event Type and Format
- Virtual Events: Typically cheaper. Expect to pay 30%-50% less than in-person.
- Workshops or Trainings: May cost more due to prep time and customization.
- Keynotes: Usually the most expensive format.
3. Duration and Deliverables
- A 20-minute talk costs less than a full-day workshop.
- Some speakers include Q&A, follow-up materials, or consulting hours.
4. Travel and Logistics
- For in-person events, you'll also cover travel, lodging, and per diem.
Sample Pricing Table:

Speaker Tier	Virtual Talk	In-Person Keynote	Full-Day Workshop
Entry-Level	$0 - $500	$500 - $1,500	$1,000 - $2,500
Mid-Level	$1,000	$2,500 - $5,000	$5,000 - $10,000
Top-Tier	$5,000+	$10,000 - $50,000	$20,000+

Tip for Organizers:
Using platforms like Talks.co can help you find vetted speakers within your budget. You can filter by topic, availability, and price range.
In short, the cost of a small business advisory speaker depends on what you're looking for-and what you're willing to invest in your audience's experience.

Here's a curated list of some of the most impactful small business advisory speakers of all time. These individuals have shaped how entrepreneurs think, grow, and lead.

1. Michael E. Gerber
- Author of 'The E-Myth Revisited'.
- Known for breaking down why most small businesses fail and how to fix it.
- His talks focus on systems, scalability, and mindset.

2. Barbara Corcoran
- Real estate mogul and Shark Tank investor.
- Offers sharp, no-nonsense advice on branding, resilience, and sales.

3. Seth Godin
- While not exclusively focused on small business, his talks on marketing and permission-based branding have transformed how small businesses connect with customers.

4. Daymond John
- Founder of FUBU and Shark Tank investor.
- Speaks on bootstrapping, branding, and scaling with limited resources.

5. Marie Forleo
- Creator of B-School, a popular online business program.
- Her talks blend mindset, marketing, and digital entrepreneurship.

6. Simon Sinek
- Famous for 'Start With Why'.
- His leadership and purpose-driven frameworks are widely applied by small business leaders.

7. Melinda Emerson
- Known as 'SmallBizLady'.
- A go-to expert for small business strategy, especially for minority and women-owned businesses.

8. Ramon Ray
- Energetic speaker focused on tech, marketing, and personal branding for small businesses.

9. Brian Tracy
- Veteran speaker on business success, sales, and productivity.
- His frameworks are timeless and widely used by small business owners.

10. Jay Baer
- Expert in customer experience and digital marketing.
- His talks help small businesses build loyalty and stand out.

These speakers have left a legacy by helping entrepreneurs think bigger, act smarter, and stay agile.

Looking for the top small business advisory speakers making waves globally right now? Here's a list of standout voices from different regions and industries who are actively shaping the small business landscape.

1. Allan Dib (Australia)
- Author of 'The 1-Page Marketing Plan'.
- Popular speaker on marketing strategy for small businesses.

2. Pamela Slim (USA)
- Focuses on ecosystem building for small businesses.
- Known for her work with diverse entrepreneurs and community-based business models.

3. Andrew Griffiths (Australia)
- International speaker and author of multiple small business books.
- Known for storytelling and practical advice.

4. Dorie Clark (USA)
- Teaches small business owners how to build a personal brand and monetize expertise.
- Regular speaker at global business events.

5. Vusi Thembekwayo (South Africa)
- Dynamic speaker on entrepreneurship and business growth in emerging markets.
- Combines data-driven insights with powerful delivery.

6. Carrie Green (UK)
- Founder of the Female Entrepreneur Association.
- Inspires women in small business through mindset and marketing talks.

7. Chris Ducker (UK/Philippines)
- Known for personal branding and virtual business models.
- Speaks at global events and runs his own summits.

8. Anik Singal (USA/India)
- Focuses on digital entrepreneurship and small business automation.
- Popular in both Western and South Asian markets.

9. John Lee (UK/Asia)
- Co-founder of Wealth Dragons.
- Speaks globally on scaling small businesses and leveraging digital platforms.

10. Natalie Sisson (New Zealand)
- The 'Suitcase Entrepreneur'.
- Speaks on building location-independent small businesses.

These speakers are not only experts-they're actively helping small businesses thrive in diverse markets around the world.

Myth #1: Small business advisory speakers only talk to startups.

This one's common, but it's off the mark. While startups do benefit from advisory insights, many small business advisory speakers work with established businesses looking to scale, pivot, or restructure. For example, speakers like Melinda Emerson (aka the SmallBizLady) often address audiences of mature small businesses navigating digital transformation or succession planning. The scope is far broader than just early-stage ventures.

Myth #2: You need to be a millionaire entrepreneur to be a credible speaker.

Not true. Credibility comes from experience, insight, and the ability to communicate value clearly. Some of the most impactful small business advisory speakers are consultants, educators, or former operators who've helped hundreds of businesses grow. Their value lies in pattern recognition and practical frameworks, not just personal wealth. Think of someone like Barry Moltz, who's built his reputation on helping stuck businesses get unstuck, not just on building unicorns.

Myth #3: Speaking is just about motivation, not strategy.

This myth confuses keynote speakers with advisory speakers. While motivation might be part of the package, small business advisory speakers are typically brought in for actionable insights. They break down pricing models, hiring strategies, customer acquisition funnels, and more. Their sessions often include Q&A, workshops, or follow-up resources. They're more like live consultants than stage performers.

Myth #4: You have to be based in a major city to get gigs.

Remote events, hybrid conferences, and niche summits have changed the game. Thanks to platforms like Talks.co and virtual summits, speakers from rural areas or smaller markets can now reach global audiences. In fact, many organizers actively seek diverse regional voices to bring fresh perspectives. Geography is no longer a gatekeeper.

Myth #5: It's a saturated field with no room for new voices.

There's demand for fresh perspectives, especially from underrepresented industries or communities. If you bring a unique angle-say, advising Indigenous-owned businesses, or helping solopreneurs in the wellness space-you can carve out a niche. The key is specificity and clarity of message, not trying to be everything to everyone.

When Ramon Ray first stepped onto a stage, it wasn't at a global conference or a packed auditorium. It was a local chamber of commerce event in New Jersey. He spoke about using email marketing to retain customers. Simple, right? But his delivery was sharp, his examples real, and his energy contagious. That one talk led to three more invites, and eventually, a career as a sought-after small business advisory speaker. Today, he's spoken for brands like AT&T and Salesforce, but his roots are still in helping small businesses thrive.

Then there's Anita Campbell, founder of Small Business Trends. She didn't start as a speaker. She built a blog, grew a community, and became a trusted voice in the small business ecosystem. Her speaking career grew organically from her content. Event organizers saw her as a credible expert who could translate complex topics like digital transformation or SMB financing into plain English. She now speaks at industry events and webinars around the world.

In Australia, David Koch-yes, the TV host-has become a trusted small business advisor through his work with Kochie's Business Builders. His talks blend media savvy with practical advice, especially around financial literacy for small business owners. He's proof that a media background can be leveraged into a powerful advisory voice, especially when paired with a clear mission.

And don't overlook regional voices. In Kenya, Wanjiru Waweru Waithaka, founder of Funkidz, has become a respected speaker on small business growth in emerging markets. Her talks often focus on manufacturing, youth employment, and scaling locally before going global. Her success shows that impactful advisory speaking isn't limited to Western markets.

What ties these stories together? None of them followed the same path. Some started with writing, others with consulting, and some with media. But all of them found a way to package their expertise into something that resonates on stage-and off.

The landscape for small business advisory speakers is shifting, not because of buzzwords, but because of real changes in how small businesses operate, learn, and grow. Let's break down what's coming next:

- Hyper-niche expertise will dominate. Generalists are losing ground to specialists. If you advise on pricing for SaaS startups under $1M ARR or on hiring in rural hospitality businesses, you're more likely to stand out. The future belongs to those who go deep, not wide.

- Virtual-first formats are sticking around. Even as in-person events return, hybrid and virtual summits are here to stay. Advisory speakers who can deliver impact through a webcam-think interactive whiteboards, real-time polling, or breakout sessions-will have more opportunities. Platforms like Talks.co are already matching speakers with virtual podcast and summit hosts.

- Data-backed storytelling is becoming essential. It's not enough to say, 'This worked for my client.' Audiences want to see the numbers. Speakers who can show conversion rates, customer lifetime value shifts, or ROI from specific tactics will be more trusted. Tools like Google Data Studio or Tableau are becoming part of the speaker toolkit.

- Globalization of small business challenges. Whether you're in Lagos, London, or Louisville, small businesses are facing similar issues: supply chain disruptions, digital marketing overwhelm, and talent retention. Speakers who can address these with a global lens-while still offering local nuance-will rise.

- AI and automation as advisory topics. Small businesses are curious but cautious about AI. Speakers who can demystify tools like ChatGPT, Zapier, or AI-driven CRMs in plain language will be in high demand. This isn't about hype-it's about practical use cases.

In short, the future favors speakers who are specific, tech-savvy, and globally aware. If you're just starting out, think about where your unique lens intersects with these trends. That's your sweet spot.

- Talks.co: A podcast guest matching platform that connects speakers with relevant show hosts. Great for building your speaking resume and getting in front of niche audiences. Tip: Use filters to find shows focused on small business, entrepreneurship, or regional markets.

- SpeakerHub: A global directory where you can list your speaker profile, browse open calls for speakers, and get discovered by event organizers. Tip: Make your profile keyword-rich and include a short video clip.

- Canva: Not just for social media graphics. Use it to design sleek slide decks, speaker one-sheets, or branded templates. Tip: Use the 'Presentations' section and customize for different audience types-corporate, nonprofit, or startup.

- Calendly: Streamline your booking process. Set up a 'Book a Discovery Call' link for event organizers or podcast hosts. Tip: Create different event types for paid gigs, free interviews, or strategy calls.

- Otter.ai: Transcribe your talks or podcast interviews automatically. Helps you repurpose content into blog posts, social media snippets, or even a speaker reel script. Tip: Use it to analyze your speaking patterns and tighten your delivery.

- LinkedIn Creator Mode: Turn your profile into a lead magnet. With Creator Mode, you can highlight your speaking topics, link to your media, and build authority. Tip: Post short clips or carousels from your talks to engage your network.

- Eventbrite: Not just for finding events-use it to host your own virtual workshops or webinars. Tip: Start with a free session on a niche topic to build your list and get testimonials.

- Zoom Webinar: If you're running your own advisory sessions, Zoom Webinar gives you more control than standard Zoom meetings. Tip: Use the Q&A and polling features to boost engagement and gather insights for future talks.