Business week ahead, August 26-30

KEY EVENT: Money trail. Getting financing for a small business can be a challenge. The Small Business Development Center at Stony Brook University might point you in the right direction. The free workshop “Access Funding for Your Business” (Wednesday, 9:30 a.m.-noon) brings together bankers, alternative lenders and representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration to answer your questions. To register, call 631-632-9837.

MONDAY: An update on U.S. economic activity in July from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.

TUESDAY: S&P Case-Shiller home prices for June. In May, New York metropolitan home prices posted their 65th consecutive year-over-year gain. Also, August consumer confidence from the Conference Board. Earnings: Lake Success natural foods seller Hain Celestial, Best Buy, H&R Block, Tiffany.

WEDNESDAY: A much-anticipated update on second-quarter GDP from the Commerce Department. Also, July pending home sales from the National Association of Realtors. Earnings: American Eagle Outfitters, Dick's Sporting Goods, Calvin Klein brand owner PVH, Salesforce.com.

THURSDAY: Jobless benefits claims for the week ended Aug. 25 from the Labor Department. Also, personal income and spending in July from the Commerce Department. Earnings: Abercrombie & Fitch, Campbell Soup, Ulta Beauty.

FRIDAY: Consumer sentiment in August from the University of Michigan.