Banking, business, and government panelists will answer business-related questions at a free workshop, “Weathering the Storm: Small Business Survival Tools,” from 7:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 31 at The Heathman Hotel, 220 Kirkland Avenue.

Representatives from Northwest Business Development Association, U.S. Bank, People’s Bank, and Community Capital Development will share information about loans for small businesses. Eastside businesses, including Kirkland companies, Simplicity Decor and Diana Kohn LLC, will talk about their strategies for success in a tough economic climate. Nancy Porzio of the U.S. Small Business Administration will address opportunities for small businesses to tap into the federal stimulus package funding. Ellen Miller-Wolfe, Kirkland’s Economic Development Managerwill present city efforts to help small businesses.

Registration is free. Call Community Capital Development at 206-324-4330, ext. 100 for reservations.