Small Business Solutions Hub: Improving Cybersecurity and Reducing Risk

What are the biggest cyber-threats facing small businesses in the region? Are your systems and operations protected? How can you reduce risk?

As we enter a new year, cybersecurity is top of mind for many business owners. The Springfield Chamber welcomes Marques Salazar, Senior IT Systems Engineer at IEQ Technology and Nicole Nelson, Southern Oregon Region President of WaFd Bank to present on this essential topic. 

Marques Salazar will be addressing what businesses can do right now to reduce their risk, giving real-world examples gathered from a 25-year career managing IT infrastructure; while Nicole Nelson will address intentional banking practices that will keep your business finances secure.

Fraudsters are constantly looking for vulnerabilities, but you can stay a step ahead. Safeguard your accounts, prevent unauthorized access, and protect your cashflow – join us for the Springfield Chamber’s first Small Business Solutions Hub of 2026, which addresses this essential aspect of business ownership. This is a hybrid program; in-person at the Springfield Chamber Depot (light lunch provided) or online via Zoom. Register today!​

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About the presenters
Nicole Nelson, WaFd Bank
Nicole serves as the Southern Oregon Region President of WaFd Bank. She has devoted her twenty-year career to commercial banking and serving clients throughout the Oregon. Well versed in various types of commercial lending, Nicole has expertise in commercial real estate, construction, operating lines of credit and equipment finance.


Marques Salazar, IEQ Technology
Marques Salazar is a seasoned IT professional with over 25 years of experience delivering enterprise-level solutions across government, technology, banking, healthcare, and automotive sectors. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional versatility in managing complex IT infrastructures, leading strategic initiatives, and implementing innovative solutions that drive measurable business outcomes.

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About Small Business Solutions Hub
In addition to in-person programs, the Springfield Chamber's Small Business Solutions Hub is a digital resource designed to connect small business Chamber members to a network of local experts and partners, business advising services, and a library of Chamber education tools. The hub will evolve to meet local needs with quarterly business education programming, and information from local investor partners.

The Springfield Chamber thanks the following partners for their support in making the Small Business Solutions Hub possible: